What is new for Strivers 2026?

For Spring 2026, we are shifting away from forming teams and placing stronger emphasis on individual player development. Traditional tryouts are being replaced with comprehensive evaluations and team practices are being replaced with targeted skill-development clinics.

Why did we change our spring format?

We updated the Strivers format to better align with the needs and schedules of our student-athletes and families. With spring tryouts occurring so close to fall/winter tryouts, even back to back weekends for our younger age groups, we felt it no longer made sense to form full teams for a short spring season. Instead, we are shifting the focus to individual player development and even more flexibility.

 

The St. James is excited to partner with TeamGenius to introduce a new evaluation format for the Spring 2026 Strivers season.

Players will register for one 80-minute evaluation session. Following the session, players will not be placed directly on a team. Instead, each player will receive a comprehensive assessment of their hockey skills, including:

• Skaters: Skating, stickhandling, passing, shooting, and hockey IQ
• Goalies: Skating, save mechanics, rebound control, and hockey IQ

All evaluations will be conducted by a team of neutral, qualified evaluators to ensure anonymous and unbiased feedback.

Each participant will also receive:

• A personalized PDF with written evaluator comments on each skill
• A suggested off-season training plan to address development areas
• A recommendation on what level of play best fits their current ability

Dates: Evaluations will be held the first two weeks of March 2026. Players may select the date and time that best fits their schedule.

Results: Feedback will be emailed within one week following each player’s evaluation. Attending an evaluation does not guarantee a spot in our travel-level clinics. Players must compete at the Tier II or Tier I level to participate in Strivers clinics. 

Details: Each evaluation session is limited to 30 players and 4 goalies. 

Cost: $112 per player

 

 

Strivers will not hold team-based practices. Instead, we are offering a variety of position- and skill-specific clinics designed for travel-level players at each age group.

Players must complete a Strivers Evaluation before registering for Strivers Clinics. Please note that Strivers clinic participation is limited to travel-level players. Those not yet at the travel level will be recommended for our house level clinics to best support their continued development.

To view our clinic offerings click here: Strivers Clinics

Tournament Policies:

Strivers Spring Tournament Policies

Tournament Options:

Strivers Tournaments 2026

Is anything new with tournaments for 2026?

Yes, tournaments will be open to the entire age group for one week. We anticipate sending multiple teams to each event. Teams will be made by Strivers staff once registration is closed.

Do players need to attend a tournament if they are participating in clinics?

No, players do not need to go to a tournament.

What about game jerseys?

Coaches will bring reversible black/white Strivers jerseys to each tournament. Players can also use their Strivers game jerseys from previous seasons if they prefer. 

Where can I find tournament options for a particular age group / team?

Tournament options can be viewed here: Coming soon

How do I register for tournaments?

Tournament registration opens on March 16th. A $100 deposit is required to hold your players' spot. The remaining cost will be due before the tournament start date. Tournament deposits are strictly non-refundable.

What is the cost for tournaments?

Tournament cost varies on age, level, location and how many players are attending. You'll see a price range for each tournament, the minimum price shown is with 15 players and 2 goalies attending. The maximum price shown is with 12 players and 1 goalie.

Should I book hotels or travel arrangements after registering?

No, all tournaments are Stay-to-Play meaning we must book as a team. Do not book hotels or travel arrangements until instructed by Strivers staff.

Can I use my membership discount for tournament registration?

No, membership discounts cannot be applied to tournament fees. Membership discounts can be applied to evaluation and clinic registration.

Is there a goalie discount for tournament registration?

Yes, goalies receive 25% off the final tournament price. Goalies may use the code: Goalie25 to receive the discount.

How will the level of play / division be selected for each event?

Strivers staff will review registrations, create rosters, and select the appropriate team division using data from evaluations.  

What if I sign up for a tournament and then can no longer attend?

Players are responsible for the full tournament fee if they back out within 30 days of the event.