Understanding the Difference Between Conditioning Teams and Regular Season Teams
As the hockey season approaches, it's essential for our members to understand the distinction between conditioning teams and regular season teams. This knowledge will help players and parents navigate the season more effectively, ensuring everyone gets the most out of their experience.
Conditioning Teams
Conditioning teams are temporary groups organized at the start of the season. These teams focus on getting players back into game shape after the off-season. The primary goal is to improve fitness levels, skating endurance, and overall readiness for the upcoming regular season. Players will participate in various drills and exercises designed to boost their physical conditioning and on-ice performance.
It's important to note that being part of a conditioning team does not determine a player's placement for the regular season. These sessions are solely for conditioning purposes and allow players to ease into the competitive environment without the immediate pressure of team selection.
Regular Season Teams
Regular season teams, on the other hand, are the teams that players will be assigned to for the duration of the season. After the conditioning period, players will go through sort-outs, depending on their age group and skill level. Based on their performance, they will be placed on a team that matches their abilities.
These teams will compete in scheduled league games, tournaments, and practices throughout the season. The focus here shifts from general conditioning to skill development, team strategies, and game preparation. Regular season teams are where players form long-term bonds with their teammates, work on their specific roles within the team, and engage in the thrill of competition.
The exception will the the U7 age group. This group is strictly for development. There is no set schedule for games against other teams. We encourage Managers to speak with Convenors to learn what else they are able to do aside from the regular scheduled practices.
Subscribing to Teams on the App
To keep up with schedules, practices, and games, subscribing to your child's team on the app is crucial. With our new website platform comes a new mobile app to allow parents and players to better communicate with each other and their team staff. Once team assignments are finalized, you can easily subscribe to your child's team by following these steps:
- Download the App: Ensure you have the latest version of the SportsHeadz app. An easy way to do this instead of going into the store on your mobile device, is to find your team on the website and open its page. Then scroll down under the calendar where is says "This Team Is On The SportsHeadz App", and click that.
- Finding your team: You will be able to find your team once sort-outs are completed and players are assigned to their regular season teams. Simply open the app on your mobile device, select "Find a Team", then the "+" sign. You have two choices, either find your team through a search, or use a team code. Using the first option is straight forward, so click "Next", then in the search bar you will enter Carleton Place Minor Hockey Association. Select that option, and then scroll to find your team. If you have issues after this, please engage with your team Manager for direction. They will have the tools needed to assist you.
- Subscribe: This step can only be done when you are authorize to do so by the administrator of the team, meaning the Manager. The CPMHA Website Administrator gives the Managers authorization to do so. Teams are locked so that random people can't join a team.
Subscribing ensures that you never miss an important update, helping you stay informed and engaged throughout the season.
By understanding the difference between conditioning teams and regular season teams and staying connected through the app, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful and enjoyable hockey season.