U9 DIVISION (2017–2018): BUILDING STRONG FOUNDATIONS
The U9 division is the perfect place for young players to grow their love of hockey. We focus on fun, skill development, teamwork, and creating a positive learning environment that supports every child, regardless of experience.
Program Overview:
- Tier Structure: We support a range of abilities with Tier B, Tier C, and Tier D team options.
- Skill Development: Introduces and builds core hockey skills—skating, passing, shooting, puck control, and confidence on the ice.
- Teamwork: We emphasize cooperation, communication, and sportsmanship to help players learn how to play with others and have fun doing it.
- Fun: Above all, we want players to enjoy every skate—smiles and effort matter more than scores.
Dressing Room Policy:
To maintain a safe and respectful environment, all players must wear at least athletic shorts (or long underwear) and a shirt while in the dressing room. A minimum of two screened adults must be present at all times.
We’re excited to watch your child learn, grow, and have fun on the ice!
Yours in Hockey,
Tosha Fidyk
EVALUATION INFORMATION
What to Expect:
Our evaluations are designed to assess each player’s hockey abilities and determine the best team placement for their skill level. The process includes:
- On-Ice Assessments: Players will showcase their skills and teamwork through drills, scrimmages, and bubble games. Evaluators will focus on skating, passing, puck control, shooting, and work ethic.
- Scrimmages: Demonstrate teamwork, decision-making, and overall hockey IQ in 4-on-4 scrimmages and bubble games.
- Fair and Balanced: Players are grouped alphabetically for initial drills, then reorganized by skill level for scrimmages.
- Player Ratings: Independent evaluators provide ratings based on on-ice performance throughout the process. The division coordinator oversees the evaluation program.
As players progress, we assess both individual skills and teamwork. Scrimmages become more competitive to prepare players for higher levels of play.
Important Information:
- Registration: All players must be fully registered, with fees paid in full, before participating in evaluations.
- Equipment: Full hockey equipment (including a neck guard) is required for all skates. Remove player names from helmets and cover/remove team stickers. Players must wear plain or Comets socks.
- Jerseys: Jerseys will be provided for evaluations. Please return them at the end of each session.
- Evaluation Dates: Regrouping will occur throughout the process—please check for regular updates.
- Evaluators: Player assessments will be conducted by independent evaluators during the evaluation sessions.
- Volunteer Opportunities: We welcome volunteers. Sign up at the registration table or contact the division coordinator if you can assist with gate duties or other roles.
How Parents Can Help
Parents play a crucial role in supporting their child’s hockey journey. Here are some tips:
- Encourage and Support: Offer positive reinforcement and celebrate your child’s efforts, regardless of the outcome.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Help your child understand that evaluations are a learning experience, and not every player will make the top team.
- Focus on Development: Emphasize the importance of skill development and having fun over winning.
- Be a Good Sportsperson: Demonstrate good sportsmanship by cheering for all players—not just your own child.
Evaluation Drills
2025 schedule
Please ensure that you are checking your email and our website for things like skate times, groups, and other information regarding evaluations.
Pre-Skates:
- Pre Skate #1 – Sat, Sept 6
- Pre Skate #2 – Sun, Sept 7
- Pre Skate #3 – Sat, Sept 13
- Pre Skate #4 – Sun, Sept 14
Skills:
- Skills #1 – Sat, Sept 20
- Skills #2 – Sun, Sept 21
Scrimmages:
- Scrimmage #1 – Sat, Sept 27
- Scrimmage #2 – Sun, Sept 28
Bubble Games:
- Bubble Game #1 – Mon, Sept 29
- Bubble Game #2 – Mon, Sept 29
Goalie Try Day – Wed, Sept 24