U11 Development Stream Hockey Opportunity for Players born in 2015 and 2016 NEXT SEASON!

Dear families of 2015-16 born players,

We’re excited to share that the Collingwood Lightning will be offering U11 Development Stream (DS) team for the 2025-26 season (pending enough interest from families).

The DS program is designed to give House League players the additional option of playing on a competitive team. For players interested in playing more hockey and at a more competitive level (but not quite rep), this is a great chance to give players exposure to increased development opportunities, while ensuring our House League program remains strong.

What is DS?

The Development Stream is a tryout-based program available only to registered House League players. It allows players to access extra ice time, participate in additional games, and attend tournaments with a dedicated team (in addition to their House League team).

Who Can Participate?

Players born in 2015 or 2016 who are registered in House League for the 2025-26 season will be eligible to try out for the DS team. 

NOTE: If your child is trying out for rep, please still respond. Indicating interest now helps us plan for ice time and team structure and does not commit you to anything.

Key Program Details:

• Tryouts: 2-3 evaluation sessions in November 2025
• Season Start: December 1, 2025
• Commitment:
• 3-4 practices per month 
• Approximately 6 games (3 home and 3 away)
• 2 tournaments (tentative beginning of January and mid-April)
• DS activities will not conflict with House League schedules
• Player Roles (additional info below):
• Full-time players attend all practices, games, and tournaments
• Part-time players have a reduced commitment (typically attend practices and tournaments, but fewer games)
• NOTE: after tryout
• Estimated Cost: $300-$450 per player
• Pricing will vary based on full-time or part-time participation
• We may explore fundraising or sponsorship opportunities to help offset costs

What’s the Difference Between Full-Time and Part-Time DS Players?

After tryouts, evaluators will determine which players are offered full-time or part-time spots on the U11 DS team.

• Full-Time Players will attend all DS practices, games, and tournaments throughout the season.
• Part-Time Players will attend most practices and both tournaments, but may play in fewer games than full-time players.

This structure allows more players to participate, develop their skills, and experience team play—while keeping rosters flexible and manageable.

The total number of players selected (full-time + part-time) will depend on overall interest and tryout participation.

We Need Your Input!

In order to move forward, we need to gauge interest from families. If your child may be interested in trying out for the U11 DS team, please complete the following short form.

Sincerely,

COLGHA Executive Team