As WNGHA has not run a U9 Rep program for a few years, we understand there are some questions. Below are a few FAQs we hope will help answer some of your questions.
What is the expectation for the U9 Rep program?
As the first year of representative hockey, WNGHA's main priority is for the players to have fun and enjoy the game while developing their skills. That said, representative hockey is, by its nature, a more competitive level of hockey and players are expected to participate in all practices, games and tournaments.
What is the commitment level?
WNGHA provides 2-3 ice times each week of home ice. Generally, this works out to two (2) practices and one (1) home game once the season starts. In addition, the team may also have an away game in a given week, such that players may be on the ice up to four (4) times in a given week. Representative teams usually participate in a few tournaments, one of which is our home tournament in October. Tournament participation is determined by the coach/bench staff.
Teams may occasionally run team building activities as well, but there is no expectation that players will also have dryland or power skating sessions each week. Development sessions provided by WNGHA will occur during normally scheduled practice times. WNGHA fully recognizes the need for players (and their families) to have balance between hockey and other aspects of their lives.
How much will it cost to play U9 Rep hockey?
In addition to the base registration fee paid to WNGHA, families should expect fees associated with ice time, referees, tournaments, team building activities, team fees (league mandated) and team photos, as well as hotel costs for away tournaments. Players will be also be required to purchase game jerseys and socks, a Wild bag and the off-ice team uniform determined by the coach.
How does my player tryout for the U9 Rep team?
You must purchase a tryout card in advance of first tryout in order to attend WNGHA's tryouts. This is available online at
http://westnorthumberlandgha.rampregistrations.com/. Tryout information, dates, and times are posted on WNGHA's website at
https://wngha.ca/tryouts.
If you need additional information, please contact [email protected].