Development Stream (DS) Program
What is Development Stream (DS)?
The Development Stream (DS) is a tryout-based program that is a subset of the House League program, not another level of hockey, offering an enhanced opportunity for players that demonstrate skill and desire to compete at a higher level of play and is ideal for those who:
- Are looking for a development bridge to competitive hockey or
- Do not wish for the time or cost commitment to competitive hockey but are seeking more competition and skill development that is afforded by House League alone
It was formed in response to requests from OWHA members to bridge the gap between House League and Competitive (Rep) play. Note: The OWHA determines the programs allowed to run, number of practices, games and tournaments at each age level in any
given season.
Who can play?
DS teams are made up of House League players from U11 to U18 currently registered in an OWHA House League program. It is important to note that the DS program supplements the House League program and runs concurrently with the player’s current HL team. OWHA does not provide for a U9 DS team due to the Hockey Canada Pathway and season structure. However, the BWHA does offer Development Programs for the U9 Players looking for additional development.
Teams will only be made if there is sufficient interest from players
Will There Be Tryouts?
DS teams are determined by a tryouts process where player cuts will be made. Players will be selected based on skills and abilities shown during the tryout process. Players registered in House League U11- U18 divisions will be eligible to attend try out for DS.
There is no guarantee that there will be a team at each level as it is dependent on the number of interested and qualified players. Determination if there is sufficient players to make a team will be determined either prior to the close of tryout registration or after the completion of tryouts.
It is anticipated that tryouts will take place in November with games and practices to commence after the creation of teams.
How many games will a DS team play?
The DS teams will play a maximum of 8 exhibition games (typically 4 home and 4 away games) This may result in some players having two games or practices on the same day. Although we do our best to avoid scheduling conflicts between House League and DS events, on rare occasions conflicts may be unavoidable.
DS Games may occur both on the weekend and during the week.
DS Teams may attend up to 2 tournaments.
How many practices will a DS team have?
The number of practices will be determined once the teams are made. DS practices will typically take place on Saturday evenings, although there may be some practices during the week.
Team Structure
Teams are made up of a mix of both full-time players who will participate in all practices, games and tournaments, and also a number of part time (alternate players) who will participate in all practices, and half the games and possibly one tournament.
Team Costs
Costs for DS are in addition to House League Fees. Costs are dependent upon the number of players who make the team, costs for ice rental, officials, tournament fees, development fees (if applicable) as well as some incidentals if required. It is anticipated
that costs may be in the range of $200.00 to $300.00 for part time players and approximately $250.00 to $350.00 for full-time players. The fees will be finalized by the coach once the teams are created, and the information will be communicated to you by
the coach and payable shortly thereafter.
When does the season start
The season will start in November with tryouts with practices and games starting after that. The season will run throughout the HL Season and end sometime in late March or early April. Some coaches may opt to attend a tournament after the end of the House League season. Full schedule will be provided by the Coach once completed.