Three Programs. One Goal.

Helping every athlete reach their potential through skill-based hockey development.

Skill-Based Player Placement

The Right Program for Every Athlete

Guelph Giants programs are based on ability rather than age. Athletes participate in one of three skill-based programs: Fundamentals, Junior or Intermediate.

Coaches evaluate each athlete's current skills, confidence and on-ice experience to determine which program provides the best opportunity for development and success. Placement may change as an athlete's skills, independence and confidence progress.

Practices take place on Saturday mornings. Games are typically scheduled on weekends and include both home and away games. Guelph Giants teams also participate in tournaments, giving athletes additional opportunities to play, travel, build friendships and represent the organization.

Guelph Giants Fundamentals program session
Fundamentals

Learn the Game. Build Confidence. Have Fun.

Players receive individualized coaching while learning the foundational skills needed to participate safely and confidently on the ice.

This program is well suited for athletes who are new to hockey, are continuing to develop basic skating skills or benefit from additional instruction and support.

Players work on:

  • Balance, movement and stopping
  • Basic skating and edge control
  • Stickhandling and puck control
  • Passing and receiving the puck
  • Shooting
  • Following instructions and participating in drills
  • Understanding basic game concepts
  • Building confidence and independence on the ice

Saturday morning practices combine skill development, individual instruction and small-area games. Activities are adapted to each athlete's abilities so everyone can participate, improve and have fun. Registration status: Open

Guelph Giants Junior team photo, 2025–2026 season
Junior

Continue Developing Your Game

The Junior program is for athletes who have developed foundational hockey skills and are ready for more structured practices and game play. Players continue improving their individual skills while learning how to work with teammates, understand positioning and make decisions during a game. Saturday morning practices prepare athletes for weekend home and away games, as well as tournament play.

Players work on:

  • Stronger skating, stopping and turning
  • Puck control while moving
  • Passing and receiving under pressure
  • Shooting accuracy
  • Offensive and defensive positioning
  • Understanding game situations
  • Communicating and working with teammates
  • Sportsmanship and fair play

Registration status: Open

Guelph Giants Intermediate team photo, 2025–2026 season
Intermediate

Take the Next Step

The Intermediate program provides a more advanced hockey experience for athletes who can participate confidently in structured practices and competitive game situations. Players refine their individual skills while developing a stronger understanding of teamwork, positioning, strategy and game awareness. Saturday morning practices support continued development and prepare athletes for weekend home and away games and tournament competition.

Players work on:

  • Advanced skating and puck-control skills
  • Passing and shooting during game play
  • Offensive and defensive positioning
  • Reading and responding to game situations
  • Team systems and on-ice communication
  • Consistent effort and personal responsibility
  • Leadership, sportsmanship and teamwork
  • Continued personal and athletic development

Registration status: Currently full

Behind the Bench

Meet the Team Managers & Coaches

Shawnee PilbeamHead Coach · Fundamentals

Bio coming soon.

Ken KeesmaatManager · Fundamentals

Bio coming soon.

Brian CunninghamCo-Head Coach · Junior

Bio coming soon.

Alex BortolottoCo-Head Coach · Junior

Bio coming soon.

Helen GartonManager · Junior

Bio coming soon.

Glen LindseyHead Coach · Intermediate

Bio coming soon.

Angela NiniManager · Intermediate

Bio coming soon.

Not Sure Which Program Is the Right Fit?

Our coaches can help determine the program that best matches an athlete's current skills and experience.