Youth Ringette in Calgary: Leagues, Clubs & Programs for Kids
Youth ringette in Calgary is a fast paced and uniquely Canadian winter sport that emphasizes skating, teamwork, and quick decision making. With strong community associations across the city, Calgary offers structured ringette programs for beginners through to competitive athletes.
Whether your child is new to skating or looking to develop in a team based ice sport, youth ringette provides a welcoming and supportive environment that focuses on skill development and sportsmanship.
What Is Ringette?
Ringette is played on ice using a rubber ring instead of a puck and straight sticks instead of curved hockey sticks. The sport is known for its speed, passing, and team strategy. While ringette is traditionally popular among girls, programs are open to all players.
Many families appreciate ringette’s strong community culture and emphasis on respect for teammates, coaches, and officials.
How Youth Ringette Is Organized in Calgary
Youth ringette in Calgary operates under Ringette Calgary, which oversees multiple community associations throughout the city.
Programs are divided by age group and skill level, with divisions typically including:
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U6 / U8 (Introductory & Learn-to-Skate Programs)
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U10 / U12
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U14
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U16 / U19
The primary ringette season runs from October through March, with evaluations and team formation occurring in early fall.
Beginner Ringette Programs
For young skaters, introductory programs focus on skating fundamentals, balance, and basic ring control. These early divisions are designed to be fun and confidence-building, helping children develop comfort on the ice before progressing to structured games.
Ringette is often a great option for families looking for a winter team sport alternative to hockey.
Competitive Ringette Pathways
As players grow, they may move into more competitive divisions that involve structured practices, league play, and regional tournaments. Competitive ringette focuses on advanced skating skills, tactical awareness, and team systems.
Some athletes may continue into high school programs or pursue higher level competition within Alberta’s ringette system.
Youth Ringette Clubs in Calgary
Calgary Community Associations
Registration for these clubs is based on where you live. Most associations open registration for the Fall/Winter season in late June or July.
Northwest Ringette (NW):
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Area: Serves all communities in the Northwest and portions of the Northeast.
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Boundaries: Generally includes everything north of Memorial Drive (from the west city limits to Deerfoot Trail) and everything north of McKnight Blvd (from Deerfoot Trail to the east city limits).
South Calgary Ringette Association (SCRA):
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Area: Covers the Southwest quadrant of Calgary.
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Boundaries: Primarily serves communities west of Macleod Trail and south of the Bow River/Memorial Drive.
Bow View Ringette Association:
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Area: Serves the Northeast and Southeast quadrants.
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Boundaries: This association covers the eastern half of the city not serviced by Northwest or South Calgary, including major communities like Auburn Bay, Mahogany, and Bridgeland.
Elite & Adult Leagues
Calgary AA Ringette: This is the high-performance stream for athletes starting at the U14 level. Players from all three community associations (NW, SCRA, Bow View) try out for these elite regional teams.
Calgary Open Ringette Association (CORA): Specifically for players 18 and older. It features multiple tiers ranging from highly competitive to recreational.
Surrounding Areas
Airdrie: Airdrie Ringette Association. Practices primarily out of Genesis Place and the Plainsmen Arena.
Cochrane: Cochrane Ringette Association. A very active club practicing at the SLS Centre and Cochrane Arena.
Okotoks: Foothills Ringette Association. Serves Okotoks, High River, and the surrounding Foothills County.
Chestermere/Indus: Indus Ringette Association. Serves the communities east of Calgary, including Chestermere and Langdon, practicing out of the Indus Recreation Centre.
Strathmore: Strathmore Minor Ringette Association. A robust program serving Strathmore and Wheatland County.
Time Commitment & What to Expect
Youth ringette typically includes:
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One to two practices per week
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Weekend games during the season
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Optional tournaments depending on division
Competitive teams may have additional training sessions and travel for tournaments.
Players will need skates, a helmet with cage, gloves, ringette stick, and other standard protective equipment.
Why Families Choose Ringette
Ringette builds strong skating skills, teamwork, and leadership in a positive and inclusive environment. Many families value the sport’s emphasis on respect, communication, and community connection.
Because the season runs through the winter months, ringette pairs well with spring and summer sports like lacrosse, soccer, and baseball.
Moving to Calgary? Let Shelley Help
If you’re considering a move to Calgary and want a neighbourhood that supports your family’s lifestyle, including access to youth sports like ringette, Shelley Munnings is here to help. Shelley works with relocating families every day and understands how factors like schools, commute times, and community programs all come together.
Reach out anytime to talk through neighbourhood options and find the right fit for your family as you plan your move to Calgary.
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Ringette in Calgary – Frequently Asked Questions
What age can kids start playing ringette in Calgary?
Many youth ringette programs in Calgary begin with introductory divisions around ages 4–6. These programs focus on basic skating skills, balance, and learning the fundamentals of the game in a fun environment.
Do kids need skating experience before joining ringette?
Basic skating ability is helpful, but beginner programs are designed to build skating confidence alongside ringette skills. Some associations also offer learn to skate or introductory sessions for new players.
How is ringette different from hockey?
Ringette uses a rubber ring instead of a puck and straight sticks instead of curved hockey sticks. The sport emphasizes passing, skating, and teamwork, with specific rules designed to encourage strategic play.
When does the ringette season run in Calgary?
The main ringette season typically runs from October through March. Evaluations and team placement usually take place in early fall before the regular season begins.
What equipment is required for ringette?
Players need skates, a helmet with cage, gloves, ringette stick, and standard protective equipment. Associations often provide guidance on required gear before the season starts.
Are ringette teams based on neighbourhoods?
Ringette in Calgary is organized by community associations that serve different areas of the city. Families typically register with the association that corresponds to their home address or closest arena.
Are there competitive ringette opportunities in Calgary?
Yes. Calgary offers competitive divisions that include structured practices, league play, and regional tournaments for older age groups.
Is ringette a good option for families new to Calgary?
Yes. Ringette’s strong community culture makes it a welcoming sport for families who are relocating. It’s a great way for kids to build friendships and feel connected.