The start of the season and evaluations can be a challenging and emotional time for players, parents, and volunteers alike. Remember, community minor hockey is about creating a positive environment where every child can grow, learn, and enjoy the game—not about chasing a pro career. Together, we’re here to support each player’s journey and make hockey fun for everyone. For parents, we ask that you set the tone – and that’s by supporting your child, being respectful to others, and refraining from adding pressure or taking frustrations out on our volunteers, coaches, staff, or other families.

• • Every child is making a team. The evaluation process is not to “cut” players, but to place them where they’ll have the best chance to develop, gain confidence, and enjoy the game. HWI evaluations are conducted by experienced and impartial professionals from our Technical Team who have years of hockey knowledge and training.
    

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  • Respectful questions about your own child are welcome, but discussing other players isn’t appropriate. Approaching HWI volunteers (who are not involved in player evaluations) to challenge decisions adds pressure and disrupts the process. Please trust we’re trying to do our best for every player.
    

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  • Players have been placed in different groups for the start of the season. Why? Because we can’t have 100 players on the ice at the same time. There will be movement between groups throughout the evaluation period. A player’s initial group is not a final decision on what level they will play—it’s simply part of the process. Evaluators are looking at many factors over multiple sessions, and adjustments are expected as they work to place each player where they’ll grow and succeed.
    

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• Whatever letter level your child plays at this season, it’s something to be proud of. Every team offers valuable development and meaningful competition.

We encourage parents and players to keep the bigger picture in mind. Not making the highest level team isn’t a setback—it’s often an opportunity for more development, leadership, and ice time on another roster. Evaluations are just the starting point. No matter which team your child is placed on, they’ll have the chance to grow and improve. You can support your child by staying positive, letting them play, and focusing on what truly matters: their long-term development and enjoyment of the game.