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SDAHC Jr Gulls Tryout FAQ

San Diego Jr. Gulls Amateur Hockey Club Tryouts 
2010-2011 Travel Ice Hockey Season


In preparation for the upcoming regular season tryouts we have put together a brief FAQ to help address any concerns you may have.   We understand that the tryout process can be a stressful time for players, parents, and coaches.  We hope that by answering your questions in advance, it will be a better experience for everyone involved.  Please read this carefully before the first tryout.

Q- What do I need to bring to the tryouts?
A- You need to arrive at least 30 minutes early, bring proof of 2010-2011 USA Hockey membership, a copy of your birth certificate (if you are new to the club).  Parents should be prepared to pay a deposit (this will range from $300 to $600, depending on level) to hold your position on the team in the event you are offered a Letter of Intent (LOI).  This deposit is applied towards your dues. For questions regarding finances please contact Laura Ryan at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Q- How do I provide proof of 2010- 2011 USA Hockey Membership?
A- Before coming to tryouts, you must register with USA Hockey.  You can easily do this online at (www.usahockeyregistration.com).  Print out the e-mail confirming your registration and bring a copy with you to the tryouts.  

Q- How much do the tryouts cost?
A- The cost for each tryout is $25 plus a one-time registration fee of $25.

Q- What if I can’t attend the scheduled tryouts?
A- Contact the SDAHC Jr. Gulls Director of Hockey, Larry Cahn, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to see what you should do.

Q- What is the on ice format for the tryouts?
A- The exact format is up to each coach.  In general, there will be some scrimmage and possibly some skills.  Players will be evaluated on game situation ability, hockey skills, work ethic, team play, and willingness to be coached.

Q- Who selects the players for the team?
A- This decision will be made by the Head Coach, who will be supported by the SDAHC Hockey Director, Larry Cahn, and at least one other member of the SDAHC Jr. Gulls coaching staff.

Q- How do I know if I make the team?
A- When you sign in you will be given a jersey with a number, please keep track of this number.  NEVER ALLOW YOUR CHILD TO SWAP OR CHANGE JERSEYS WITH ANYONE UNLESS DIRECTED BY THE COACH TO DO SO. Within a short time after the tryout is completed, a list will be posted on the bulletin board near the check-in desk.  Players with a L (LOI) next to their number are being invited to join the Jr. Gulls.  Players with a R (Return) next to their number are being invited to return to the next tryout.

Q- What if my number is not on the list?
A- If your number is not on the list posted after the tryouts, you did not make this team. You will be encouraged by the coaching staff to attend a try out at a lower level, please remember that the coaches will not be available to discuss their decisions on the day of the tryouts. 

Q- What does the ‘Return’ mean?
A- The ‘Return’ means the coach is honestly interested in you, but is not prepared to offer a LOI at that tryout.  Those who receive a ‘Return’ have the skills to play at the posted level, and it is a sincere invitation to return to the next scheduled tryout.  Many players who receive a ‘Return’ after the first tryout will be offered a LOI after further evaluation by the coaches, so don’t be discouraged.

Q- How many LOI’s will be offered after each tryout?
A- Most coaches offer only some of the LOI’s after the first tryout.  Some coaches will offer by position, by age, or to those who cannot attend a second tryout.  The order in which LOI’s are offered has no relationship to your status on the team.

Q- What do I do if I make the team?
A- There will be an area or table upstairs that a club official or team representative and your new Head Coach will be there to answer any questions you may have. No signings or discussions about the LOI process will be held in the public rink area.  The Coach may choose to meet with the families in a private meeting.

Q- How long is the LOI valid?
A- The LOI is valid for that tryout only.  If you receive a LOI, but leave without signing, the original LOI will be withdrawn, and you must return to another tryout to compete again for positions that are still available. 

Q- What happens after I sign my LOI?
A- The club official or team representative will ask you to complete some paperwork.  The initial deposit needs to be paid at that time.  Once you sign a LOI, you are no longer allowed to attend tryouts for other SCAHA Clubs.  SCAHA is very strict about this rule and violators are subject to fines.

Q- Once I sign my LOI, do I need to attend the other scheduled tryouts?
A- You should.  Most coaches will want you on the ice to help with the evaluation of your future teammates and to ensure a competitive tryout.  Please let your new coach know if you can’t.

Q- What if the Jr. Gulls are offering multiple teams at a tryout?
A- When there are enough players for two or more teams, the Head Coaches and the Director of Hockey will determine how the teams will be selected.  There are many ways to do this; age, skill level, positions, or some combination of the above.  When multiple teams are offered, it may take longer to set the rosters of both teams.

Q- What if I have questions prior to try outs?
A- Please feel free to contact our Director of Hockey, Larry Cahn, via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  You may also contact SDAHC President, Laura Ryan, via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Communication is very important to the SDAHC Coaching Staff and Club Officials. We strive to provide accurate, consistent, and thorough information to our members. Prior to returning your LOI please assure all your questions are answered.  
Further information can be found on our website at www.jrgullshockey.com

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