FAQs

Riverside Hockey Club follows the selection guidelines set by KZN Hockey for choosing players to represent the club. Below is an overview of the process:

1. Eligibility for Selection:

   • Premier League: Players must be at least 16 years old.
   • Senior League: Players must be turning 15 years old. Players who are 14 may be considered, but only with prior approval from the Executive Committee (Exco).

1. Membership Requirements: Players must have fully paid their membership fees or have an approved payment plan with the accounts department to be eligible for selection.

2. Transfer Players: Players transferring from other clubs can be considered for selection only if they provide a clearance form from their previous club and meet the membership fee requirement.

3. Practice Attendance: Players must attend at least one practice per week to be eligible for selection, unless they have received prior approval from the Selection Committee.

4. Selection Criteria: Players will be selected based on merit.

5. Final Decision: The Convener of Selectors has the final say in all selection decisions.

Riverside Hockey Club Player Development Philosophy

Riverside Hockey Club is committed to providing a lifelong development pathway for both elite and social players, inspired by the European model of building sustainable clubs and nurturing talent within those clubs.

Our philosophy centers on high standards and continuity across all our programs, from Mini and Youth levels to Seniors. We have specific criteria in place to support the transition from junior to senior hockey, particularly for players in the U14 and U15 boys’ and girls’ age groups.

Our focus is on preparing players for the increased physical and mental demands of senior hockey. To ensure they are ready, the Riverside Hockey Youth section will evaluate players during February and March to assess their readiness to move up to senior level.

Criteria for Transitioning from Youth to Senior Hockey:

1. Attendance & Commitment: Consistent participation and dedication to both youth and senior programs.

2. Physicality: The ability to compete physically at a higher level of play.

3. Technical Skills: Mastery of the fundamental skills required for senior hockey.

4. Defensive Skills: Ability to execute key tackles (jab, block, and reverse tackles) at a higher intensity.

5. Game Sense: Strong understanding of game flow, rules, and the ability to analyze the game in real-time.

6. Previous Senior Hockey Experience: While previous involvement in senior hockey is considered, it does not guarantee selection for the senior team at Riverside.

This process ensures that players are well-prepared for the challenges of senior hockey and can make a successful transition to the next level.