U11, A (Barrie Minor Hockey)

                                                                                                                   

    BMHA U11A Evaluation Camp

Greetings Hockey Families, Welcome to the 2025 BMHA U11 A Evaluation Process.
Tryouts often represent a stressful time for both the player and their parents. This letter is designed to outline expectations and reduce apprehension as we move through the tryout process. Please remind your son/daughter that the evaluation process begins as soon as each athlete arrives at the rink. Encourage your player to have a positive attitude and body language, be focused and listen to instructions and work hard throughout the process. I am always looking for what players do without the puck as much as what they can do while the puck is on their stick. In an effort to alleviate any additional stress, I have highlighted some key points to the tryout process below;

There are a total of four U11 A skates [May 3, 4, 5, 6]. Please double check all dates an times on the BMHA website. 

● Every player in camp has earned the right to attend and receive an impartial evaluation. From the players gathered, a total of 17 athletes will be selected who best fit the team.
● Players will be evaluated based equally on work ethic, attitude and “Hockey Sense” as they are on hockey skill and execution.
● Player positions are subject to change based on what is best for the team. My aim My aim is to take the 17 athletes who best fit rather than simply the best 9, 6, and 2.
● Pinnies are to be returned to Coach Damen at the conclusion of each tryout.
● Releases to BB Camp may occur after the first skate.

My coaching philosophy is simple; develop the person and the player will follow, team play trumps individual, build confidence and have fun. I assure you, no one will balance hard work and fun better than this group. I strive for fair play; however, I always stress that fair and equal are not the same thing. I will always endeavor to put the kids in situations where I feel they can experience success. Lastly; Family first, every time. 

Selection Process
1st Skate The first skate will be a collection of drills agreed upon by all BMHA U11 coaches. The drills will be run by an outside agency. Athletes will be divided into 2/3 groups resulting in separate 90/50 min sessions

2nd Skate The second skate will mirror the first skate in terms of drills, however numbers may be reduced. To this end, session times and durations may vary.

3rd Skate Exhibition Game Two teams with unbalanced lines will compete in a full game with certified officials. Two 22 minute periods

4th Skate Exhibition Game – Final Tryout

Upcoming Season
• I am targeting 4 tournaments this year; 1 local and 3 requiring overnight accommodations. Ideally, in Sept, Oct, Nov and Jan. No Christmas Tournament.
• Practices and games are not optional
• Playoffs often take place bookending or during March Break. Please plan accordingly 
• Additional development will be implemented and incorporated into our calendar
• Team Fundraising will constitute a portion of our Team Budget
• A Parent Meeting [mandatory] date will be forwarded once the team has been selected
Yours in Hockey
Coach Damen