Development Stream (DS) Program
Note: LGHA will only ice DS teams if numbers/talent permit. DS teams may only be formed if there are 2 or more teams in the same division (min 12 players/team) and it cannot interfere with House League programming.
Information about the DS program and tryouts will be shared with all registered House League players if the LGHA has enough interest to run the program.
What is Development Stream (DS)?
Development Stream (DS) is a tryout-based program that is a subset of the House League program, not another level of hockey, offering an enhanced opportunity for players that demonstrate skill and desire to compete at a higher level of play and is ideal for those who:
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Are looking for a development bridge to competitive hockey or
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Do not wish for the time or cost commitment to competitive hockey but are seeking more competition & skill development that is afforded by House League alone
It was formed in response to requests from OWHA members to bridge the gap between House League and Competitive (Rep) play. Note: The OWHA determines the programs allowed to run, number of practices, games & tournaments at each age level in any given season.
Who can play?
It is important to note that the DS program supplements the House League program and runs concurrently with the player’s current HL team, meaning that all DS players must be registered in House League and continue to attend their HL games, practices, & tournaments regularly.
DS is for U11HL, U13HL, U15HL, & U18HL age groups only. Participants registered for a Competitive Level team (Rep) CANNOT be on a DS team.
Important Note Regarding Player Pathways for U9 & U11: Hockey Canada has mandatory requirements for U9 & U11 hockey that impact OWHA programs. At this time, OWHA has NOT sanctioned a U9 DS program, and U11 DS teams are not permitted to enter sanctioned DS tournaments. Please refer to the OWHA web site at http://owha.on.ca for detailed info on requirements for pathways.
Will There Be Tryouts?
Players registered in House League U11-U18 divisions are eligible to try out for DS.
DS teams will be determined by a tryouts process where player cuts will be made. Players will be selected based on skills and abilities shown during the tryout process.
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Tryouts may begin in November, after House League registration is complete
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Games may begin in December once DS registration is complete
What is the Season Structure Like?
The DS program begins in the Fall of 2023.
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DS teams will practice, play exhibition games, & enter tournaments outside their normal HL team
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DS teams are not permitted to play in a league
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DS teams may play a max of 8 exhibition games against DS teams from other associations
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U13, U15, & U18 DS teams may attend a max of 3 sanctioned tournaments and ONLY in DS divisions
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DS teams CANNOT register as a competitive team
Teams may only play 17 players in a game but may roster up to and including 25 players. Pick up players are not permitted for a DS team.
How Much Travel is Involved?
This will depend on which other associations will be skating DS teams.
What is the Cost?
Costs are based on ice time, tournaments, team registration fees, referees & timekeepers.
The cost to players for the 2023-2024 season is an additional $250
OWHA Development Stream (DS) Program Policy (pdf): CLICK HERE