FAQ
How does Colorado High School hockey work?
Colorado high school hockey offers two competitive seasons each year. In the fall, teams compete in the Colorado Prep Hockey League (CPHL) from August through October, allowing programs to practice and play games earlier in the school year. In the winter, teams transition to the Colorado High School Athletic Association (CHSAA) season, which runs from November through early March and follows strict state-mandated start and end dates. The creation of CPHL gives Colorado high school teams valuable development and competition opportunities before the official CHSAA season begins. The CPHL or "fall" season is much like a traditional travel/club season. While schools provide oversight, families share in costs associated with practices, games, travel, etc.
Will I play as many games as with Club hockey?
During the CHSAA seasons, our Varsity team will play a competitive schedule. In the fall CPHL season, each team will compete in approximately 10-20 games (depending on tournaments and playoffs), including 1 in-state tournament. In the winter season, Varsity will play 19 games, and depending on if we have enough players to field a JV team, the goal is for them to play 10 games. High school hockey is about playing with your classmates, developing as a player on and off the ice, and competing amongst other High Schools in the State.
Will the coaching be as good as club hockey?
This all depends on the coach. It is not fair to compare High School coaches and travel/club hockey coaches without fully knowing who the coaches are. At Kent Denver, we believe that our coaches are as strong as any coaches in the State and are committed to providing a travel/club-level experience for all of our players. Our coaching staff is experienced, USA Hockey certified, and committed to player development, safety, and team culture. We strongly believe high school hockey provides a well-rounded experience, encouraging multi-sport participation, academic success, strong attendance at both school and team activities, proper behavior on and off the ice, and pride in representing and promoting your school community through sports.
Where are games and practices?
Practices and home games are held at the University of Denver (DU). Away games are played at rinks throughout the Denver metro area, Southern Colorado, Mountain towns, and across Colorado.
What are the costs associated with the CPHL and CHSAA Season?
Fees for the 2026–27 season are estimated at approximately $2000 per player for the fall CPHL season and approximately $500 for the winter CHSAA season. All incoming players will need to spend approximately $500 for Kent equipment and attire. All fees are estimated and subject to change based on final ice costs, league requirements, and Varsity and JV teams.