Quote:
Originally Posted by wired
My nephew is 11, and is very, very good as a defenceman.
Last year, his mom was approached by Alberta hockey (or equivelant org). They wanted a 10 year old, to billet with a family in Edmonton for the season. And practices were $300 each.
My sister in law declined the invite. Not so much for the expense, but she didnt want to lose her 10 year old for the season.
Tons of commitment required by parents of children playing in a higher end league.
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This is not something Hockey AB would do, and there is no equivalent, not sure what program you would be referring to. But just wait untill next year when POE comes calling to the tune of 40k and want a 13yr old to move to Kelowna. These hockey academies are nuts.
As I've said before, the top kids in each age group are playing year round hockey, and in the recent few years, kids of all skill levels have joined in to. Spring hockey is no different then club volleyball, or even golf and baseball which have year round programs everywhere in North America. Hockey is just under the microscope so much more. Spring hockey also offers more competition for the younger kids living in rural areas where they are not exposed to equal competition. Having been involved in spring hockey for 10 years now my biggest advice is to seriously consider reputable power skating programs which are a much more long term benefit then any spring hockey operation (if you are looking to hone elite talent). Of course if you can afford both, then go for it.
Spring hockey can also be very cut throat to, the butt kissing and politicking cannot be matched anywhere. There is no "governing body" so really anything goes as all the programs are in dependantly run and players can play anywhere their parents want them to, and the really good ones will not have to pay a dime of they don't want to.