Programs available vary from province to province with the youngest age groups commencing at five years old. Youth leagues typically run in groupings of two to three years depending on the size of the community and number of participants. A sample program may offer the following age groups (the division names may vary):

• Junior - under 18 (as at start of year)
• Bantam - under 16
• Pee Wee - under 14
• Atom - under 12
• Novice - under 10
• Tyke - under 8
• Squirt - under 6

Mens programs usually commence at 18 years of age, with some provinces allowing under 18's to play with parental consent if no junior program exists in their community. Provinces may offer as many as six levels of play based on competitiveness of the player/team, including old-timers.

As players/teams succeed at each level, they are normally expected to graduate to higher competitive levels of play if offered in their communities, in order to keep programs fair and fun for all participants. Most provinces offer women's programs with no age minimums to encourage participation.