The 2020/21 season is approaching quickly, and we understand
that there may be a lot of questions from parents and players. We’ve put
together a list of those questions below.
The information below is subject to change as the season
moves forward. We will continue to update families as things change.
We’re looking forward to seeing you on the ice soon!
How will this season be structured?
The season will be divided into two phases. The first phase will run from October 12 – December 19 and will focus on skill development. Teams will be capped at 20 players and will allow up to five coaches.
We will not be playing traditional 5 on 5 hockey during this phase and no games will be played outside of the North London Hockey Association. Teams may play games within their own team at the discretion of their coach.
U18 and U21 divisions will play inter squad games in lieu of a formal development program.
Will there be tryouts?
OHF has mandated that players return to the team they played with last year. There will not be tryouts this year. If you paid a tryout fee at registration you will be refunded.
Will teams be playing games?
Traditional 5 on 5 hockey will not be played during this phase. Our goal is to return to traditional hockey as soon as it is safe to do so. We will be structuring our season according to the OHF Return to Hockey Framework. Coaches may schedule inter squad scrimmages throughout the development phase.
Can I still register my player for the season?
We are accepting registrations until September 27. You can register your player here.
When does the season start?
The 2020/2021 season will start October 12 for U8 and up. You can expect your first scheduled ice time between October 12 – 18. Schedules will be available in early October.
The first two weeks of the season will be considered conditioning skates. Ice times in week three will be used as evaluation/assessment skates for new MD teams and to fill open MD spots on existing teams. They will also be used to help create equitable House League teams.
The U7 (Initiation Program) will begin October 24.
Can my player play on more than one team this year?
Players are only permitted to play on one team this season. Players registered with North London Hockey can not be registered in a non-sanctioned league after September 20th, 2020. Registration in hockey training programs is permitted.
Will I be able to watch my child play?
Starting, October 19, one spectator will be permitted per player. Parents/guardians who wish to watch must wear a mask, sanitize their hands before entering the arena and pass a screening. Only one spectator per player is permitted in the designated viewing areas, this includes siblings.
All participants and spectators will be required to check in using our GLHA approved mobile app. Details on the app will follow.
Does my child need any special equipment this year (ie. visor)
No, no additional equipment will be required this year. Players will not be required to wear a mask on the ice.
We will not be providing uniforms during the development stage to players U8 (Minor Novice) and older. Players will need to wear their own socks and jersey.
Players in U7 (Initiation Program) will be provided with socks and a jersey in early November.
Can I get a refund?
A full refund can be requested until September 27. Refunds requested after September 27 will be subject to a $75 administration fee. Refunds will not be offered after October 24.
All tryout fees will be refunded.
Can I make a HL team request?
We will do our best to honour all requests, but we can not guarantee any team placements.
How will NEW MD teams be selected (U8, U9 Tier II, U10)
Evaluations for U8, U9 Tier II and U10 will take place during the first three weeks. All players will be evaluated to ensure fair and balanced house league teams as well as select our MD teams for these divisions.
There is no cost to participate in these sessions.
What about existing MD teams from last year?
Players are returning to their teams from the 2019/20 season. MD rosters will be capped at 20 players per team and the additional players will be chosen from assessment skates (approximately the third week of the season). No players that played MD last season will be returned to House League unless requested by the family.
Will players be able to use the dressing room?
Dressing rooms will be open, and players can use them but must respect physical distancing rules. We ask that players arrive to the arena dressed in their equipment to minimize time spent in dressing rooms. Masks are required for players and parents in the dressing rooms.
Players are asked to remain in the dressing room until ice time. Please do not wait in the lobby or beside the rink.
What will phase II look like?
Phase II of the season will begin in January. Players will be required to register for phase II and additional fees will be collected. Our hope is to able to safely return to 5 on 5 hockey. If we are able to do so there is a possibility that new teams will be made and formal try outs will be held. Details on phase II will be shared when they are available.
When are bump up fees due?
We will be reaching out players to collect bump up fees for MD and Junior Mustangs once rosters are finalized.
What will the development phase look like for U7?
For more information specific to our U7 (Initiation Program) please click here.
What will the development phase look like for U18 (Midget) and U21 (Juvenile)?
U18 and U21 divisions will play inter squad scrimmages in lieu of formal development during phase I of the season.
What courses are required for coaches this year?
ALLIANCE Hockey along with the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) have established health and safety measures and protocols that accompany the required qualifications for bench staff for the 2020-2021 minor hockey season. The protocols in place are based on direction that is provided by Public Health and the Ontario Government.
The requirements for Team Officials are applicable for the 2020-2021 hockey season can be found here.
How can I help?
There are a number of ways to help ensure a successful season for all players this season. We are looking for volunteer coaches, team managers and parents to help manage our COVID protocols for each team. Please reach out to your division’s convenor if you are interested in volunteering.
It’s the responsibility of all parents, spectators, volunteers and players to follow our return to play plan and to help ensure success this season. Properly wear a mask, practice physical distancing, wash and sanitize your hands regularly and don’t come to the arena when you are feeling unwell or experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19.
Where can I direct my questions?
If you have any additional questions about the upcoming season, please reach out to Andrea Maillet [email protected]