U12-1 White, A (Barrie Minor Hockey)

Coach’s Welcome Letter

Dear Parents and Players,

I would like to welcome all players and parents to this years Barrie Colts U12 A White team tryouts.  This letter is intended to inform everyone of the tryout process and expectations for both tryouts and the upcoming 2025/26 season.

My team philosophy is a fairly simple one. Hard work/effort, a positive attitude and respect for fellow players, coaches, parents and officials will result in a very successful season.

Tryouts:

There are 17 spots available on this years U12 A White team - 9 forwards, 6 defence and 2 goalies.  At each tryout there will be 3-5 independent evaluators looking for self-motivated, team oriented, positive players that bring a high level of skill and a willingness to be challenged to become the best player that they can be. ALL players will be given equal consideration during tryouts. Players be mindful that tryouts begin as soon as you enter the building. Attitude and behaviour (on and off the ice) are key cornerstones of building a successful team. Players will be given the opportunity to display not only their skills but also how they are in game situations.

***Please note that players may be redirected to U12 A Blue after the first tryout.

During the tryouts players will be evaluated on the following:

1. Hockey Skills

2. Hockey IQ and Knowledge

3. Work Ethic

4. Coachability

5. Attitude and Behaviour (on and off the ice)

Evaluators will be assessing players individually and will NOT discuss any results with anyone outside of those involved. I will not address any re-direct questions until after the final tryout process has been finalized.

Rep Level Commitment:

Players selected to be on this team can expect to be at the rink 3-5 times per week on average. Practices, games, and team events are not considered voluntary or optional.  Please note that during March Break we will be in playoffs. In order for this team to be successful we need a full buy-in from both players and parents alike. Other areas where full participation will be required include fundraising and off ice events such as dryland training, team building/parties. All players are expected to keep a level of fitness throughout the summer.

Tournaments:

We are allowed to compete in 4 tournaments this year.  They have yet to be finalized but expect at least 2 to be overnight stays and 2 local tournaments. Please note that we will be playing in the Barrie Kutting Edge Classic on November 21-23rd.

Upcoming Season Key Dates:

• Jersey and Apparel Fitting - May 27th
• Optional team building events throughout the summer
• Mandatory team meeting within 7 days of roster selection. Date/time to be announced after team is finalized.

I wish all players the very best and look forward to seeing all players demonstrate their skills and give it their best effort in the tryout process.

Bill Forrest

Head Coach

Barrie Colts U12 A White