Ice Dogs CSDHL Travel Hockey

The Central States Developmental Hockey League (CSDHL) organizes teams into three divisions:

• Major Division: This division typically consists of older players within a designated level (e.g., squirt, pewee, etc.).
• Minor Division: The Minor Division generally includes younger players within a designated level (e.g., squirt, pewee, etc.).
• Prospects Division: At each level, ALL other teams will compete in the CSDHL Prospects Division.

CSDHL Team Placement Process

Minor and Major Divisions: CSDHL currently requires an application process for placement of any team into major/minor CSDHL divisions. This process happens in the spring prior to the upcoming fall hockey season. 

Prospects Divisions and Tiers: All IDHA teams not competing in the CSDHL Minor/Major Division will compete in the CSDHL Prospects Division. Within the Prospects Division there will be three separate levels (RED, WHITE, and BLUE) with each level containing three possible tiers (Tier 1, 2, and 3). The IDHA Board and Glacier Hockey Office will submit a recommended placement for each IDHA team’s prospect level placement (e.g., IDHA Squirt AA will compete in Prospects RED Division, Tier 1). These recommendations will determine the Division and Tier each of our IDHA teams will compete at during the 8 game seeding round. At the conclusion of the seeding games, CSDHL will make necessary adjustments to drive for the most competitive seasons as possible within the various Prospects Divisions and Tiers.

If a player chooses to leave the Ice Dogs program after the first round of team placements have been determined, this deposit is non-refundable. In the event that a player is cut from our program, this season's deposit is fully refunded.

FALL FEES AND PAYMENT PLANS

At registration, a non-refundable $250 tryout fee+$250 season deposit will be charged upfront.

If you select a payment plan, the remaining balance will be divided into equal payments scheduled for:

September 1, October 1, November 1, December 1, and January 1.

If you'd like to begin making payments prior to September 1, please contact our Treasurer to adjust your plan.

Please note:

• Late payments, declined credit/debit card charges, or unpaid balances may result in the player being suspended from the ice, as well as a $15 return fee charged by Crossbar.
• Under AHAI regulations (Illinois' governing body for amateur hockey), the Ice Dogs Hockey Association may file for Financial Suspension, which would prevent participation in any AHAI-sanctioned club until resolved.

If you are experiencing any issues or need assistance with your account, we're here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL OBLIGATION

In addition to season fees and any replacement uniform items, families should expect to contribute to their player’s team slush fund at the start of the season. This amount varies by team and is managed by the team manager.

IDHA is committed to remaining competitively priced with neighboring programs. For any questions, please reach out to a member of the IDHA Board.

All registered players are expected to attend all scheduled tryout sessions for their age group and division. Participation is essential for coaches to evaluate players consistently and fairly.

Reporting an Absence

If a player is unable to attend the tryouts, a parent or guardian must notify the Association in writing (email preferred) at least 48 hours in advance. The notification must include:

• Player's full name
• Age group and division
• Reason for absence
• Any supporting documentation (e.g., doctor’s note if due to illness or injury)

In cases of emergency or sudden illness, notification must be provided as soon as possible.

Valid Reasons for Missing Tryouts

Acceptable reasons for missing tryouts may include:

• Medical illness or injury (with documentation)
• Family emergency
• Significant scheduling conflict (e.g., school event, out-of-town commitment)

Alternative Evaluation Process

At the discretion of the Head Coach and the IDHA Hockey Directors, and only for excused absences, players may be offered an alternative evaluation method, such as:

• Evaluation during pre-season practices
• Past performance reviews from previous coaches
• The Association is under no obligation to provide an alternative evaluation.

Final Team Selection

Final roster decisions will be based on:

• Performance during tryouts (where applicable)
• Alternative evaluation (if approved)
• Coach and committee discretion
• Team needs and overall balance

Missing tryouts—regardless of the reason—may affect placement. No spot is guaranteed. This policy will be reviewed annually and may be updated to reflect the evolving needs of the Association.

All tryout-related correspondence should be sent to:

sanderson@glacierskate.com

Subject: Tryout Absence – [Player Name]