May 07, 2025 | Jeremy Holden | 23 views
Tryout Introduction and Evaluation Process
Tryouts are scheduled for May 6th , 8th , 10th and 13th.
Dear U18B Stirling Blues Players, Parents, and Guardians,
I’m thrilled to be stepping behind the bench as head coach of the U18B Stirling Blues this season! This is always an exciting time of year, and I’d like to introduce myself and share what you can expect during tryouts. I have been involved in minor hockey for the last eight years – the last 7 of which have been on the bench. I am passionate about the game, player development and helping players improve and reach their personal and team goals.
Tryouts are scheduled for May 6 th , 8 th , 10 th and 13 th. Tryouts will consist of two (2) on-ice sessions focused on individual skill evaluation and two (2) exhibition games. The first three sessions will be held at the Sunny Life Recreation and Wellness Center in Campbellford (50Seymour Quarry Rd), and the final session will take place at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre FDC Pad in Belleville (265 Cannifton Rd). No changes to the schedule are expected, but please continue to monitor stirlingblues.ca/Tryouts for updates.
Players will be evaluated on their compete level, drive and determination, hockey IQ, puck handling, stamina, skating, and position-specific skills. Goalies will be assessed on their speed and control in the crease, tracking ability, and rebound management. Evaluations will be conducted by independent, non-affiliated SDMHA evaluators, and selections will be based solely on performance and the overall fit for team success. Alternate players will be contacted separately, if applicable, with further details. Please ensure your athlete arrives fully equipped with a neck guard, mouth guard, and brings water to the bench for every skate. Remind your athlete that evaluations extend beyond the ice; How players prepare, interact, and conduct themselves in and out of the arena and dressing room, is an important part of the overall evaluation process.
Tryout Communication and Jersey Process
At the first tryout, players will be assigned a jersey (with color and number), which must beworn at all skates for identification. Jerseys must be left in the dressing room after each session—please do not take them home.
Offers of Commitment
Offers will be sent through Spordle. Selected players will receive a personalized registration link from the coach, along with a clearly stated response deadline. Coaches may send out offers as early as the first tryout. Once a player registers through Spordle, their Offer of Commitment is considered accepted, and they will be officially committed to that team. Players are only permitted to register with one team/association per season, so all other offers will be void once registration is complete.
I’m excited to watch these players hit the ice and show what they can do. I’m confident this group will compete hard, grow together, and make this a season to remember. Best of luck toall players during tryouts—and to parents and guardians, thank you for your continued supportof our athletes. Without it, their growth and love for the game simply wouldn’t be possible.
Sincerely,
Paul Fyke