Welcome to the 2025–2026 U12B Aurora Tigers Tryouts!
Dear Parents and Athletes,
I hope this message finds you well. My name is Zack Barfitt, and I’m honored to serve as Head Coach for the U12B Aurora Tigers for the upcoming 2025–2026 hockey season.
I grew up playing minor hockey right here in Aurora and have competed at the Junior A level. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with young, aspiring hockey players across various teams. This season, I am committed to building a strong, cohesive team—both on and off the ice.
My focus during tryouts is to select players who are eager to learn, passionate about the game, and show a strong drive for continuous improvement. While talent is important, character, work ethic, and coachability are equally critical to our team’s success. As I was taught growing up, when we wear the Aurora Tigers jersey, we represent not only our team but our entire community.
Tryout Schedule
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Saturday, May 10th: 11:45 AM – 1:15 PM @ Aurora Community Centre (2 – McAlpine Lincoln)
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Wednesday, May 14th: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM @ Aurora Community Centre (2 – McAlpine Lincoln)
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Thursday, May 15th: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM @ Aurora Community Centre (2 – McAlpine Lincoln)
Tryout Expectations
During the tryout sessions, players will be evaluated on a variety of hockey skills, including skating (forward, backward, speed, agility), puck control, passing, shooting, positioning, and compete level—especially during battles for the puck.
We will also be observing coachability, work ethic, and attitude. Players who demonstrate respect for teammates, opponents, and coaches, and who stay focused throughout the process, will stand out.
Tryout Process
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Tryout Passport Registration Required
All participants must register for a Tryout Passport before attending any sessions. Registration can be completed here:
https://page.spordle.com/aurora
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Check-In at the Aurora Community Centre
AMHA staff will be present each day to assist with check-in. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled ice time to check in and receive your child’s tryout jersey.
Note: Jerseys must be returned at the end of each session.
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Mandatory Protective Equipment
Full protective gear is required, including mouth and neck guards. Players without proper equipment will not be allowed on the ice.
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Evaluation and Conduct
Evaluations will be conducted by independent evaluators to ensure a fair and unbiased process. Please refrain from approaching evaluators during or after the tryouts.
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Communication of Results
Results will be posted on the U12B team page, under the Tryout Player List section. Players will be identified by their Tryout Passport Number.
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May 10th Results: Posted by 6:00 PM
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May 14th Results: Posted by 8:00 PM
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May 15th Results: Final list posted within 48 hours
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Note: Results will not be shared in person at the arena.
Team Expectations
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Time Commitment: Players can expect 3 to 5 ice sessions per week, including practices and games. Weekends will often include ice time on both Saturdays and Sundays.
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Financial Commitment: Estimated team cost is approximately $4,000 per player for the season.
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Tournaments: We plan to participate in 3 to 4 tournaments, including at least one overnight away tournament.
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Season Duration: The season will run from September 2025 through mid-April 2026. Please plan vacations accordingly.
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Team Apparel Fitting: Scheduled for May 20th at 6:00 PM (location to be confirmed).
We will also be seeking parent volunteers to help support the team in a variety of roles:
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Assistant Coaches (2-3)
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Team Trainer
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Team Manager
All player positions and roles are determined at the discretion of the coaching staff and may evolve throughout the season based on the needs of the team.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me at [email protected].
Thank you again for your time and commitment. I look forward to meeting all of you and building a fun, focused, and competitive season together!
Best regards,
Zack Barfitt
Head Coach, U12B Aurora Tigers
[email protected]