Frequently asked questions

Question: How do the players get evaluated?  What Criteria will be used?

Answer: We believe it is import to have a rubric to speak to players and parents about how decisions are made.  It’s not a hard and fast rule that a 6.5 makes it and a 6.0 does not. Its gut feel, attitude, aptitude and other intangibles along with technical skills.  Below is a draft of how we assemble the evaluations for players. We record at the time of the skate then transfer the values to an electronic strength plot. We consider on ice work. The scores use 1-10 scale with 0.25 accuracy. A 10 would be nearly impossible but a 9 would be something that you would expect from a best in class AAA player and the "some of the best you have ever seen".  7s and 8s are reserved for the best on the ice at the time of the evaluation.  Each player will be reviewed on and off ice by multiple coaches against 6 criteria. A brief interview and questionnaire will also be part of evaluation process.

Question: If my player has prior commitments conflicting with the published tryout schedule, will there be an opportunity for my player to be evaluated?

Answer: If your player has prior AA play experience we would be happy to see them at the first available training session. For players without prior AA experience we would like to speak with their previous coaching staff prior to arranging an on-ice evaluation.

Question: How does dual rostering work?  Can you explain how my player can be on multiple rosters next season (i.e. High School team Idaho Falls, on a National Bound Sun Valley Suns Roster and the RMW composite team)?

Answer: Most importantly, in the winter season of 2025-2026 the RMW teams will not be national bound nor will they play in the state tournament. Your player is allowed to be on multiple rosters providing that they are 1. Not on two rosters declaring for nationals nor 2. Playing on two teams in the state tournament. In the 2024-2025 season the Junior steelheads U14AA team did not compete in state championships because they were in the play down games vs CDA for nationals. Players for the Junior Steelheads U14AA are allowed to play for their High School teams in the State tournament. The state of Idaho wants players and families to pick a home team. We support that. The RMW teams are supplemental to that decision, with the intention to provide a higher skilled team opportunity for select tournaments, showcases and non-conflicting events ( as practicable) where exposure for your player can be realized. We suggest you speak to your local organization to understand how they will facilitate your player getting the opportunities you feel best suite you family’s needs and expectations.

Question: How does the $100 try-out fee relate to the $900 spring program fee?

Answer: The $100 nonrefundable tryout fee is to cover the cost of ice and coaches for the tryout. Tryouts are open to all Idaho players that meet the definition by IAHA. Out-of-state players must receive prior approval. The tryout fee will be $100. The first, team payment, of $800 will be due after team selected tryouts, for a total of $900.  • If you are selected for a team, that combined $900 will become your first payment. • If you make a team, and decide to not play, you will NOT be refunded any money.  • If you are selected as “Training”, $900 will be the entire payment for the spring. Forms of payment accepted: venmo @RockyMountainWarriors

Question: Can my player come just to tryouts for the experience?

Answer: Absolutely. The hockey experience for these teams is intended to be at the AA level, however we seek to match the level of commitment of players wanting to push the pace and will respect that desire and afford opportunities to showcase it.

Question: How many players will make each team.

Answer: The maximum number of players would be 17 on the official roster, and 7 practice players per age group.

Question: Is there an opportunity for age groups younger than U12.

Answer: There certainly may be in the future, but for the 2025-2026 season we're focusing on U12-U18.

Question: How do I get involved in or contribute to this program.

Answer: The Rocky Mountain Warriors are thrilled many of you have reached out and expressed interest in being involved in this program. There will absolutely be volunteer efforts and coaching opportunities as well as roles to be filled for governance. Should you want to give discretionary effort to the process we would love to talk to you. Please reach out to Joel Griffith, our Hockey Director.