With the 2015-2016 OMHA season wrapping up, it's already time to start thinking about next season. Below are some answers to many of the frequently asked questions about tryouts.
Q: When do tryouts for AAA usually start?
A: The first date in which AAA tryouts may begin is on the Monday following the completion of OHF Championships for the 2015/2016 Minor Hockey season. For the 2016/2017 tryouts this starting date is Monday April 11, 2016.
Q: How long do the tryouts run?
A: Completion of tryouts for AAA is by a date declared by the AAA Centre/Zone, but no later than the Sunday that is fourteen [14] days following the completion of the OHF Championships. However, per OHF Regulation E32 “If one or more Statutory Holiday(s) falls within the 14 day period the tryout period is extended by two (2) days.”
Q: What does a player need to do to try out for AAA hockey?
A: First the player needs to register with the local Home Hockey Association.
Q: Is there any paperwork that is required once the player has registered with the Home Centre?
A: Once registered with the Home Centre, the player can request from the Home Centre a “Permission to Tryout Form”, commonly known as a “Permission to Skate” form. Your Home Centre is the only place where this form can be issued, and it must be signed by the Home Centre’s authorized delegate. It will also be designated on the form, the AAA Club for which you are authorized to tryout. For information regarding the OHF Major Midget AAA pilot and the tryout process please contact your Home Centre.
Q: Is there a cost for the “Permission” form?
A: No. Home Centres are not allowed to charge for providing a “Permission” form.
Q: What do I do with the Permission form?
A: Ensure that the form is filled out in its entirety with all required information and signatures. Check the website for the AAA club at which you intend to tryout to obtain updated information about the tryout dates for the Division in which you are interested. Tryout registration is usually done on-line or in person. The AAA club will provide instructions on how and when to register for tryouts. The Permission form will need to accompany your application for tryouts. OMHA regulations require that this Permission form is submitted to the AAA club before the player is allowed on the ice.
Q: When will the AAA Centre/Zone advise if my son/daughter has been successful in obtaining a position on the team?
A: A player must be offered a position on a AAA team in writing within fourteen [14] days after the commencement of tryouts. If a player is not offered a position within that time frame, the player may request a release and “AAA Waiver”. A player who has been offered a position has 14 days to accept the offer, after which the AAA Club may withdraw any offer not accepted.