Junior hockey is a level of ice hockey played by young athletes, typically between the ages of 16 and 20. It serves as a crucial development stage for players aspiring to reach professional leagues, such as the NHL or AHL. Junior teams often compete in leagues that are affiliated with national governing bodies, providing a structured environment for skill development and competition. In many countries, junior hockey is organized into various tiers, with the most prominent being the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) in Canada and the United States Hockey League (USHL) in the United States. Players in junior hockey receive coaching, training, and exposure to scouts, helping them advance their careers in the sport.