If we join the Saints Pro Hockey Academy, are we able to go back to minor hockey in the future?
Yes, there are no rules that stop an athlete from returning to their local association for the following season. Article 6.22 in the Hockey Canada Policy and Procedures Manual states the following:
"Any individual who participates (knowingly or otherwise) in "outlaw" programs after September 30 of the season in question (the Cut-Off Date) will lose all membership privileges with Hockey Canada for the remainder of that season, and may only reapply for membership with Hockey Canada after the end of that season. "Participation" in an "outlaw" program will be considered to have occurred if the individual takes part in one game (including an exhibition, tournament, league or playoff game) after the Cut-Off Date. If a participant makes the choice to participate in these "outlaw" programs, they must understand the ramifications of that choice and that the sanctions described in this paragraph will remain in effect even if the league or team folds, or the individual is released, suspended or fired."
Over the past seasons we have had athletes return to Minor Hockey for various reasons and have not experienced issues in returning.
What is the future of programming for the SPHA?
The SPHA's goal is to develop the athlete from the time they begin playing hockey until they leave to play junior hockey. We will continue to follow the division progress as the HSL lays them out. With the transition of the Spruce Grove Saints Jr A team moving to the BCHL, there are now opportunities for an SPHA athlete to stay in independent hockey from the time they are 7 until they graduate into collegiate level hockey. 2024 was also the first season we have offered spring hockey programing.
Does playing with the SPHA affect my eligibility to play Junior hockey or to be drafted into the WHL?
No. Junior hockey is extremely competitive and teams at these levels are going to fill their rosters with the best players available, regardless of which program or league that they develop in. The SPHA will continue to foster and grow relationships with junior hockey executives all over North America in order to supply our athletes with opportunities to further their careers.
Is the SPHA able to play in tournaments outside of the HSL?
Unfortunately, there are a very limited number of tournaments that our teams are able to compete in due to all of them being sanctioned by Hockey Canada or Hockey USA. This is a fluid situation as there have been some events that have allowed our members to attend. We do have relationships with certain independent organizations in North America and work with them to facilitate trips for our members. Thanks to the HSL and their partners, our SPHA teams have the opportunity to compete in cross-border events with the offerings of the Challenge Cup and Pacific Duel events, which are in-season tournaments scheduled around the HSL schedule.
Is my athlete eligible to compete in sanctioned events (Peewee Prospects Cup/Alberta Cup/etc)?
No. These sanctioned events are treated the same as sanctioned tournaments. Our athletes do not pay for membership with Hockey Alberta/Hockey Canada, so these events are not available to our member athletes. The HSL is working on events to give our athletes unique opportunities and experiences outside of the league.
How are the SPHA rosters selected?
SPHA teams are selected by the coaching staff of the specific teams. In the past we have put on identification skates to select players who will also be interviewed with their parents to determine who is the best fit for our program. Other rosters have been hand selected through previous relationships and spring teams that have kept their core together for numerous spring seasons. Parties that are interested in the SPHA, please email us by clicking here.
What are the costs associated with playing for the SPHA?
The costs for the SPHA is dependent on the age and division that your athlete plays in. Our programming costs range from $3,350 + GST to $4,200 + GST. This cost does not include the HSL Registration, Equipment and Insurance Fees, which are as follows: Athletes new to the HSL range from $1,006 + GST to $1,531 + GST. Goalies new to the HSL range from $653 + GST to $1060 + GST (no Helmet or Gloves). Returning athletes are given several package options dependent on what equipment they may still be able to use after the previous year.
What does the SPHA registration cost cover?
Practice and development hours are dependent on the age level of your athlete. The SPHA is given a mandated number of development hours from the HSL. We pride ourselves on being well within those ranges. Our athletes will receive the following:
- 2013 AAA - 95 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
- 2013 Major - 90 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
- 2014 Major - 90 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
- 2015 Major - 90 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
- 2016 Major - 80 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
- 2017 Major - 80 + Hours on-ice. Minimum of 2 skill development sessions per month (12-14 through the season). 10-12 Goalie specific training sessions. 32 HSL Regular Season games.
Does the SPHA have 3rd party skill development coaches?
Yes, the SPHA is very fortunate to have access to our own skill development coaches that work with the athletes in our academy as well as with the Spruce Grove Saints and Seattle Thunderbirds. They have a presence at practices throughout the winter and are available when their schedule permits. There will also be other skill development providers utilized throughout the season.
Do you still have a question that is unanswered above?
Please email us by clicking here and we will answer your question as soon as possible!