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Understanding AAA Elite Hockey - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What level is the AAA Elite Hockey League?
- Our AAA Elite division competes at the highest level recognized by USA Hockey, which is "Tier 1 - AAA".
Are there higher leagues offered?
- There is NO higher level than AAA Elite Hockey.
Is the AAA Elite League "better" than the Travel League?
- That is entirely what you and, more importantly, your child hope to get out of playing hockey. AAA hockey is, generally,
more intense, and more competitive than other levels of play. Teams will play an estimated 50 games per season which
includes tournaments. The AAA Elite League may provide the challenge that more advanced players require to truly enjoy
the game.
- One game + per week which will translate into +/- 50 games per season (including tournaments)
- 20 weeks of dryland and 20 weeks of on-ice skills development, along with two practices weekly
Is there additional / greater traveling in the AAA Elite League as compared to
the current Travel League?
- Yes. AAA Elite League teams will travel, in most cases, within a 50 mile radius. There are exceptions to this
rule from time to time when teams will be traveling to locations such as Albany, NY, Burlington, VT, etc.
What 'League' will the AAA Elite Junior Sharks play in?
- The N.E.H.L.; which is considered one of the finest youth hockey leagues in New England
& North America.
- www.thenehl.com
Does the AAA Elite League cost more than the current Travel League?
- Yes, but it involves more ice time. AAA Elite League teams will practice twice per week and play (at least) one
game per week. We expect tuition for the AAA Elite League to run roughly $2,300 per season. There will
be NO financial aid offered for the AAA Elite League.
What were the reasons the Worcester Crusaders joined the Junior Sharks?
- In short, coordination, infrastructure and a pool of younger players.
- Coordination: The Junior Sharks organization is a very well coordinated league which
offers various levels and options for ALL players.
- Infrastructure: The Worcester Crusaders had 6 coach volunteers running their entire league
- we offer much wider shoulders on which to share the burden with 25 USA-Hockey-Certified Head coaches, a 15-member board,
and a 7-member executive board.
- Youngsters: Its getting very competitive with the number of "AAA" or "Elite" programs
pulling at the same kids. The Junior Sharks have a robust Learn to Skate/Learn to Play Hockey program that feeds our
Mosquito and Mite programs. Although Midstate has been steadily growing in recent years despite many other programs
being challenged, we know that the best organizations cater to every level of player.
How has the Worcester Crusaders record been over the recent past?
- Each Worcester Crusader team at each level has qualified to play at the highest division of the NEHL ("American" division).
This means that, after parity, every single Worcester Crusader team was placed in the highest/most competitive level of what
is widely regarded as one of the very top leagues in Massachusetts.
Will there be new uniforms?
Will the Junior Sharks recruit "internally" within the current Junior Sharks organization?
- Absolutely. However, players must 'tryout' and may be cut. This is NOT an evaluation for placement, but a
true tryout. If a child is cut, he/she is welcome to play travel or house where we find a place for everyone.
How will AAA Elite League tryouts be structured?
- In late February/early March, 2012, the league will plan to announce tryout times for the AAA Elite League. The
non-refundable fee for tryouts has not been set but generally runs ~$60. Each AAA Elite team head coach, with input
from all Travel coaches, will select players for their team.
Which age groups will be supported as part of the AAA Elite League for next season?
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