Arapahoe Youth Hockey is a highly structured youth program in Colorado that includes opportunities for boys and girls of all ages and skill levels.  As members of the Colorado Competitive Youth Hockey League (CCYHL), Arapahoe fields competitive teams for players ages 9 to 18.  As members of the Colorado Recreation Hockey League (CRHL), Arapahoe fields "house-recreational" teams for all players not interested in trying out for the more competitive CCYHL teams.   Like CCYHL teams, CRHL teams are available  to players ages 9-18.  

Arapahoe also plans to field GIRLS ONLY teams for competition in the Colorado Girls Hockey League (CGHL).

 The Arapahoe 8U Mite program is organized into three levels based on age and ability: Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced.  For boys and girls ages 5-8, the Arapahoe Mite program ensures players have fun and develop the age appropriate skills, and athletic skills that include agility balance and coordination.  

As a USA Hockey youth affiliate program, Arapahoe supports and works to implement the American Development Model.  With the entire program committed to long-term age-appropriate athletic development, all coaches and administrators are committed to understanding and utilizing best practices for all programs at all ages and levels.  Arapahoe is a youth affiliate of the Colorado Amateur Hockey Association (CAHA), and is a formal voting member of Colorado Competitive Youth Hockey League (CCYHL), and the Colorado Recreational Youth Hockey League (CRHL).  The Thunderbirds also serve as a member on the CAHA Tier-2 Girls Advisory Committee.  Arapahoe and the Thunderbirds work in partnership with South Suburban Parks and Recreation.