If we join the Alberta Pro Hockey, are we able to go back to minor hockey in the future?
Yes, there are no rules that stop an athlete from returning to their local association for the following season. Article 6.22 in the Hockey Canada Policy and Procedures Manual states the following:
"Any individual who participates (knowingly or otherwise) in "outlaw" programs after September 30 of the season in question (the Cut-Off Date) will lose all membership privileges with Hockey Canada for the remainder of that season, and may only reapply for membership with Hockey Canada after the end of that season. "Participation" in an "outlaw" program will be considered to have occurred if the individual takes part in one game (including an exhibition, tournament, league or playoff game) after the Cut-Off Date. If a participant makes the choice to participate in these "outlaw" programs, they must understand the ramifications of that choice and that the sanctions described in this paragraph will remain in effect even if the league or team folds, or the individual is released, suspended or fired."
Over the past seasons we have had athletes return to Minor Hockey for various reasons and have not experienced issues in returning.
What is the future of Alberta Pro Hockey
Our goal is not only to develop great young athletes, but more importantly great young people from the time they begin playing hockey until they leave to other leagues. Our teams continue to progress inside HSL and spring hockey allow you, and your athlete to continue their development throughout multiple seasons. is to develop the athlete from the time they begin playing hockey until they leave to play junior hockey. We will continue to follow the division progress as the HSL lays them out. After players finish their HSL careers, many of our alumni return to their community associations, pursue JPHL hockey and progress towards junior and collegiate levels.
Does playing with Alberta Pro Hockey affect my eligibility to play Junior hockey or to be drafted into the WHL?
No. Junior hockey is extremely competitive and teams at these levels are going to fill their rosters with the best players available, regardless of which program or league that they develop in. Our franchise has strong relationships in numerous leagues, and teams and we will continue to foster and grow relationships with junior hockey executives all over North America in order to supply our athletes with opportunities to further their careers.
Are we able to play in tournaments outside of the HSL?
Unfortunately, there are a very limited number of tournaments that our teams are able to compete in due to all of them being sanctioned by Hockey Canada or Hockey USA. This is a fluid situation as there have been some events that have allowed our members to attend. We do have relationships with certain independent organizations in North America and work with them to facilitate trips for our members. Thanks to the HSL and their partners, our teams will have the opportunity to compete in cross-border events such as the Challenge Cup and Pacific Duel events, which are in-season tournaments scheduled around the HSL schedule.
Is my athlete eligible to compete in sanctioned events (Peewee Prospects Cup/Alberta Cup/etc)?
No. These sanctioned events are treated the same as sanctioned tournaments. Our athletes do not pay for membership with Hockey Alberta/Hockey Canada, so these events are not available to our member athletes. The HSL is working on events to give our athletes unique opportunities and experiences outside of the league.
How are the rosters selected?
Our teams are selected by the coaching staff of the specific teams, in conjunction with any coaches or development partners who participate in the ID skates. In the past we have put on identification skates to select players who will also be interviewed with their parents to determine who is the best fit for our program. Other rosters have been hand selected through previous relationships and spring teams that have kept their core together for numerous spring seasons. If you are interested in learning more about the opportunities to join any of our teams, please contact us today.
What are the costs associated with playing for Alberta Pro Hockey?
The costs for our teams is dependent on the age, division and season that your athlete plays in. Our programming costs range from $3,350 + GST to $4,200 + GST. This cost does not include the HSL Registration, Equipment and Insurance Fees, which are as follows: Athletes new to the HSL range from $1,006 + GST to $1,531 + GST. Goalies new to the HSL range from $653 + GST to $1060 + GST (no Helmet or Gloves). Returning athletes are given several package options dependent on what equipment they may still be able to use after the previous year.
What does the Alberta Pro Hockey registration cost cover?
Practice and development hours are dependent on the age level of your athlete. We are given a mandated number of development hours from the HSL. We pride ourselves on well within and beyond those ranges.
- 2013 - 95 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
- 2014 - 90 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
- 2015 - 90 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
- 2016 - 80 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
- 2017 - 80 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
Does Alberta Pro Hockey have 3rd party skill development coaches?
Yes, we are fortunate to have access to third party development coaches with decades of experience working with young hockey players. They have a presence at practices throughout the winter and are available when their schedule permits. These coaches remain consistent from winter to spring and have input into a variety of team related decisions and opportunities.
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