The U11 Development (Tyee) Program is CRMHA's first step into competitive hockey. Designed for players who are eager to challenge themselves and further develop their skills, the program provides a higher level of competition, coaching, and commitment than recreational hockey.
The U11 Development pathway helps prepare players for future Representative hockey while fostering confidence, teamwork, sportsmanship, and a lifelong love of the game.
Players in the U11 Development Program benefit from:
Increased on-ice development opportunities
Competitive league play against teams from across Vancouver Island
Enhanced skill development and hockey IQ training
Exposure to age-appropriate team systems and tactics
Tournament competition and team-building experiences
A pathway toward future Representative hockey opportunities
Most importantly, players become part of a proud Tyee tradition built on hard work, respect, teamwork, and community.
The U11 Development A and B teams compete in the VIAHA Island League and typically attend 2-3 out-of-town tournaments throughout the season.
Players can expect approximately 3-4 hours of on-ice time each week, generally consisting of:
Two practices
One game
Player development remains the primary focus, with coaching centered on skill progression, game awareness, teamwork, and age-appropriate tactical concepts.
Although U11 Development teams are not classified as Representative teams, they are expected to adhere to all CRMHA Representative Team policies and standards.
U11 Development hockey requires a greater commitment from both players and families than recreational hockey.
Participants should be prepared for:
Regular weekly practices and games
Weekend travel for league play and tournaments
Team events and activities throughout the season
A commitment to attendance, effort, and team participation
Families should carefully consider the time and financial commitments associated with competitive hockey before entering the tryout process.
All U11 players in good standing who wish to participate in the Development tryout process must register and pay the required non-refundable tryout fee at the time of registration.
Tryouts can be an exciting but challenging experience for players and families. CRMHA asks all participants to approach the process with patience, understanding, and respect as coaches, evaluators, and volunteers work to make decisions that support player development and team success.
The maximum roster size for a U11 Development team is nineteen (19) players.
For games, teams may dress a maximum of:
Seventeen (17) skaters
Two (2) goaltenders
The top 30 evaluated players will be selected to form the U11 Development A and B teams, provided qualified Head Coaches are available for both teams. If the requirements outlined in CRMHA Policies and Procedures Section 6.1.1 are not met, only one Development team may be formed.
Development hockey involves additional expenses beyond regular CRMHA registration fees.
Potential costs may include:
Additional ice time
Tournament entry fees
Travel and accommodation
Team apparel and CRMHA dress code requirements
Team activities and miscellaneous expenses
Additional association and team fees will apply to players selected to a U11 Development roster.
To help offset these costs, Development teams are permitted to fundraise. All fundraising, sponsorship, and financial activities must comply with CRMHA policies and procedures.
CRMHA expects all teams and team staff to manage finances responsibly. Team budgets are approved and monitored by the CRMHA Executive, and unnecessary expenses are discouraged.
CRMHA expects all coaches, team officials, players, and parents to demonstrate respect, integrity, and good sportsmanship at all times.
This includes interactions with:
Referees and officials
Opposing players and coaches
Volunteers and spectators
Fellow CRMHA members
Other hockey associations
The Tyee Program is built on a team-first culture where player development and character are valued alongside competitive success.
CRMHA is fortunate to benefit from exceptional coaching both on and off the ice, including dedicated skills coaches who work with players throughout the association. Many of our coaches are former CRMHA players who now give back by helping develop the next generation of Tyees.
For more information about the U11 Development (Tyee) Program, please contact: