Tryout Info
Tryout Process and Player Selection
Tryouts usually start mid April upon direction from OWHA and ice availability.
The full tryout schedule (including prep skates) and registration for the 2026-2027 season will be available in late March / early April. Once available, this website will be updated and communications will be sent via email to our current Rivercat families.
Prep Skates: Prep skates are not mandatory for the try-out process but great for players who haven’t been on the ice for a few weeks to get on the ice before tryouts officially begin. These are not included in the tryout fee and players must register to attend these sessions.
Tryouts: All players wishing to be rostered on a team for the upcoming season are required to attend tryouts. Participation in all scheduled tryout sessions is required. Any player who cannot attend must communicate directly with the head coach in advance. Players will normally begin the tryout process at the highest tier offered for their age division. If a player is released from that tier, they will continue the tryout process at the next tier within the division. This progression continues until the player is either selected to a team or has completed the tryout pathway. In divisions where two tiers of teams are offered, players may choose to begin tryouts at Tier 2 if they feel that level is a better starting point. Players choosing this option must indicate their intention to start at Tier 2 at the time of registration. This structured process ensures fair evaluation and appropriate placement for all athletes. Rivercats use a flat-fee registration system for tryouts - all participants will register only once and pay the same registration fee regardless of the level at which they start tryouts. Tier 1 tryouts are guaranteed the first 2 skates, and Tier 2 -1 skate.
Players will receive a 4 digit code at registration during their first tryout, this code will be post on the Players tab. Posted codes are invited to return to the next tryout. If you do not see your code you have been released to the next tier.
How Players Are Evaluated -Coaches put significant thought and effort into selecting teams. To support a fair and objective process, independent evaluators may be used during tryouts to provide additional, unbiased assessments. Players may be assessed on:
* On-ice skills
* Coachability & attitude
* Effort during warm-ups, on the bench, and in the dressing room
* Feedback from current and past coaches
* Internal evaluations throughout the season
It’s important to recognize that not all players will make the team they hope for, but that does not mean they won’t have future opportunities. Players who remain within the organization and demonstrate growth across Tier 1, Tier 2, and Local League teams often achieve greater long-term success. Rep hockey is always an option up to U18!
Understanding the Selection Process
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Players #1-13 are often clear-cut selections.
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Players #14-17 are more difficult decisions and may be chosen based on positional needs, role fit, or coachability.
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Coaches make final selections based on what is best for team balance and player development.
24-Hour Rule & Respect for Decisions
We understand that not everyone will agree with roster decisions, but respectful communication is key. We ask that families wait 24 hours before approaching a coach with concerns. This allows emotions to settle and encourages constructive discussions.
Commitment Expectations for Coaches, Players & Families
Our Rep coaches dedicate a huge amount of time to their teams, and in return, we expect the same level of commitment from players and families. If you are considering Rep hockey, be sure to:
* Ask the coach about their plans early in the tryout process
* Be open and honest about your own availability and expectations
* Only accept a spot on a team if you can fully commit to the season
