TPMHA Competitive Hockey Program
Program Overview
The TPMHA Competitive Program (U13 to U18) is designed for coed players who demonstrate both the skill and the drive to compete at a higher level. As a VIAHA Tier 3 association within BC Hockey, TPMHA teams face strong competition across Vancouver Island. Players in this program must be committed to consistent development through regular on-ice practices and off-ice training. Success in this program requires dedication, discipline, and a strong team-first mindset.
The U11 Development Program serves as TPMHA’s entry point into competitive hockey. While not classified as a Representative team, U11 Development teams follow TPMHA’s Competitive Team policies and participate in the VIAHA Island League. This program emphasizes skill development and introduces players to the increased commitment required for competitive hockey, including frequent travel. It provides a vital foundation for players aspiring to move into higher competitive divisions.
Unlike recreational hockey, TPMHA’s competitive programs are more time-intensive and travel-heavy, catering to athletes who are eager to challenge themselves and grow both individually and as part of a team.
Financial Commitment
- Tryout Fees: $125 (non-refundable)
- Season Fees: $530 (in addition to tryout fees)
- Travel: Island-wide travel for VIAHA league games, tournaments and playoffs
- Team Attire: Team apparel and dress clothes to meet TPMHA standards
- Possible additional fees
Program HighlightsTryouts
- Tryouts are mandatory
- Tryout typically run the last week of August and first week of September
- Tryouts are Co-ed
- Players being released from tryouts have the option to be registered to one of the 3 recreational programs (Wild, Port McNeill or Port Hardy)
Practices
- Two practices per week: on a rotating schedule between Port McNeill and Port Hardy;
- 1 hour dryland
- 1 hour on-ice session
- Typical practice days: Tuesday and Thursday evenings (subject to change)
- Mandatory attendance is expected
League
- Teams are tiered to determine who they will play for the season
- Games played within the VIAHA League
- Co-ed team roster
- Season Length: September - March (may be shortened due to playoff position)
- Teams may face opponents such from Victoria, Nanaimo, Powell River, Comox, Cowichan Valley, and Campbell River
- Games are held on weekends, and sometimes require overnight travel
- Additional Exhibition games may be added to the schedule
- Mandatory attendance is expected
Playoffs
- Teams will participate in playoffs as Tier 3
- # of Playoffs weekends are dependent on how a team does
- Mandatory attendance is expected
- Winning playoff team advances to BC Championships
Travel
- Travel may include overnight stays depending on location and team standings
- Families must be prepared to travel in all weather types and road conditions.
- Island league teams are required to attend all games – fines to the association may apply for missed games (some exceptions for adverse weather such as no ferry or RCMP travel advisories, if approved by VIAHA)
- Teams that have earned a spot to the BC Championships, will have additional travel to anywhere in BC.
Dryland Training
- Typically held one hour prior to practice and games
- Schedule and format to be confirmed by each team
- Mandatory attendance is expected
Dress Code
- Team apparel and dress clothes to meet TPMHA standards
- Specifics and ordering will be discussed at the team level
Volunteer Support (Mandatory)
The success of the TPMHA Competitive Program depends on strong parent and volunteer support. Each team must have:
- Head Coach
- Assistant Coach(s)
- Safety Parents
- Team Manager
In addition, parental support is required for all home games and events, including:
- 50/50 draws
- Music
- Time clock operation
- Scoresheet management
Other roles may arise during the season for tournaments, fundraising, etc.. All families are expected to contribute to ensure a safe, organized, and fun experience for the players.
Fundraising (Mandatory)
All families are expected to participate in:
- TriPort Association wide fundraising initiatives
- Team-specific fundraisers to help cover costs associated with travel, tournaments, and team activities
We recommend families carefully consider the time and financial commitments before entering the Competitive tryout process.