September 1st, 2021
Dear Westlock Minor Hockey Family,
It's that time of year again. And this year more than ever there is a sense of anticipation and eagerness to get back out on the ice. At this point we have clear direction from Hockey Alberta that hockey is back to how it once was. We are looking forward to a great back to normal year.
Conditioning and evaluations can be both an exciting and stressful time. Players may be entering a new level or becoming part of a new group of players. Remember that having fun with your teammates, putting your best effort forward, and having confidence in your abilities are what’s important. Wherever this season takes you, we pledge to further develop you as a hockey player, but more importantly as a person.
Our conditioning week will start on September 13th and run until September 15th. Each division will receive three ice times to prepare for evaluations. It is important for players to attend these conditioning sessions as we will be running though some of the drills that the evaluators will be using. Please check the ice schedule for exact conditioning times.
Currently, we are projecting to have two teams at U18, one team at U15, one team at U13, two teams at U11, and two teams at U9. Our U7’s will practice and play as one group. A checking clinic will be provided for all U15 players before the season starts. We are planning to do this within the first two weeks during one of the conditioning or practice ice slots.
Our evaluations for U18, U11, and U9 will be held on September 16th and 18th. They will be conducted by a third-party evaluation company. This company is used by many other associations across Alberta and come with an unbiased fair evaluation process that will place each player where they will have the greatest opportunity for development.
On the 16th the evaluators will conduct time trails, and 3 on 3 play. This will be done for all three divisions (U9, U11 and U18). On Sept 18th each division will have two games. Please check the ice schedule on the WMHA website for updated times.
We are aiming to have team placements for release on Sept 20th with results being posted on our website by 5:00pm. Practices will resume on Sept 21st. Please keep your eye on the schedule for practice times.
We are also looking for coaches to help lead our players this season. We have a great group of coaches but would welcome new ones! Please let me know if you are willing to help.
I look forward to seeing you all at the rink over the next few weeks. If you have any questions please feel free to email me at westlockmhavp@gmail.com .
As the kids say: Let's Gooooo!
Sincerely,
Nelson Jespersen
Westlock Minor Hockey Vice-President