Updated: August 2026
Athlete selection is evaluated across four core performance pillars alongside overall team composition and roster balance.
5
1. Technical Proficiency
- Core Ball Handling & Distribution: Consistency and accuracy in fundamental skills under game speed and pressure (push, slap/sweep, forehand hit, reverse hit/tomahawk, aerial skills/distribution).
- Receiving & Control: Clean static and dynamic receiving (in motion, open/closed, aerial receptions, control under direct physical pressure).
- Elimination & 1v1 Attacking: Ability to carry, protect the ball, use 3D skills, and create forward advantages through purposeful elimination.
- Defensive Skill Execution: Footwork, channeling, patient footwork, and precise tackling technique (1v1 contest, upright/jab/block, 2v1 and 3v2 containment).
2. Tactical Intelligence & Game Awareness
- Decision-Making & Speed of Play: Vision, anticipation, spatial awareness, and quality of decision-making on and off the ball.
- Tactical Versatility: Understanding of team systems, press structures, transition play, and the adaptability to execute different roles or positional demands.
- Hockey IQ & Coachability: Ability to read the flow of the game, absorb tactical instructions, and adjust play in real time.
3. Physical & Athletic Capacity
- Movement & Conditioning: Repeat-sprint endurance, multidirectional speed, acceleration, and agility.
- Game Resilience: Physical robustness, balance, and work rate across training and match play.
4. Commitment, Culture & Character
- Team-First Mindset: Willingness to embrace assigned roles, celebrate teammate success, and prioritize overall program achievement.
- Competitiveness & Work Ethic: High-energy engagement, tenacity in contests, and sustained focus across both practice and competition.
- Accountability & Resilience: Ability to handle adversity, accept constructive feedback, take ownership of personal performance, and maintain emotional composure.
- Communication & Professionalism: Positive, respectful interactions with teammates, staff, and opponents on and off the turf; proactive conflict resolution; and strict adherence to team standards, academic responsibilities, and training schedules.
Program Needs & Final Selection Statement
Selection is based on a holistic evaluation of the criteria above, incorporating both objective performance metrics and the professional subjective assessment of the coaching staff. Selections are made in the context of positional depth, short-term competitive needs, and long-term program development. The coaching staff, led by the Head Coach, holds final responsibility for all athlete selections.
Final team selection September 9, 2026.Â
Alison Lee
alisonr.lee@utoronto.ca
