INITIATION PROGRAM 6 (2012) AND MINOR NOVICE (2011) COMPETITIVE DEVELOPMENT STREAM
For players entering their Initiation Program 6 (formerly Tyke (born in 2012)) and Minor Novice (born in 2011) years, the North York Knights will be offering a Competitive Development Stream program. The program will focus on long term player development in accordance with the Hockey Canada and Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) Player Development Models and the GTHL Initiation Program.
The Competitive Development Stream program is an extension of our House League program and will be available to players registered in these age groups on a tryout basis. Information on the OHF Player Development Model and the game play structure discussed below may be found at https://www.omha.net/noviceandbelow
Information on the GTHL Initiation Program and the benefits of modified ice hockey may be found at http://www.gthlcanada.com/initiation-program-resources/
In addition to the House League program, players in the Competitive Development Stream will participate in one or two additional practices per week and will play approximately one weekly development game (20-25 games per season) against Competitive Development Stream teams from three neighbouring hockey associations: Leaside, North Toronto, and Forest Hill. As well, Competitive Development Stream teams may participate in tournaments or festivals throughout the season.
Competitive Development Stream games will follow the game play structure of the OHF Player Development Model. An overview is set out below and more details on specific game formats will be provided prior to the start of the season.
- Rosters of 18 players (16 skaters, 2 goalies)
- Goalies will rotate in IP6 and may be designated in Minor Novice
- During game play teams will be divided into two squads of 9 players (8 skaters, 1 goalie)
- Two games will be played simultaneously in a 4 vs. 4 format (plus goalie)
- IP6 games will be played in a cross-ice format and Minor Novice games will be played in a half-ice format
- 44 minute games will consist of two 22 minute run time periods
- Line changes to occur at 1 or 2 minute buzzers
- Games will be officiated
- No scores, standings or playoffs
Competitive Development Stream development games will begin in October after Thanksgiving, and will not be scheduled over holidays or during the public school system March Break.