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Frequently Asked Questions

We understand this is a lot of information to digest.  Should you have any questions about any aspect of our program, please do not hesitate to contact your Level Coordinator, Team Manager or any member of the Cyclones Board of Directors for clarification.

Download FAQs PDF here

FAQ

  • I’m new to hockey, especially travel hockey. What are the different levels of play and the various leagues?

    Jr. Cyclones 8U-15U (RINK PROGRAM)

    8U/6U Cyclones Mite Prep (CLUB PROGRAM)

    Northwest Hockey League (NWHL)

    Northern Illinois Hockey League (NIHL)

    Central States Developmental Hockey League (CSDHL)

    Download the above PDF for the full answer to this question

  • Why does CSDHL cost more than NIHL, and NIHL cost more than NWHL?

    The cost difference between CSDHL and NIHL is primarily due to the longer ice slots required for league games, league fees, trainers and coach’s salaries.

    The cost difference between NIHL and NWHL is primarily due to the # of practice slots that teams are allocated, in addition to coach’s salaries. NWHL teams have one less practice slot per week, as compared to travel teams in CSDHL or NIHL.

  • Other than the season fees, are there any other costs related to playing for the Cyclones?

    Each family participating in Cyclones Hockey needs to be aware of the extra costs associated with youth hockey. In addition to the season fees, possibly league fees (CSDHL), and travel commitments/costs, there are extra costs each family should prepare for.

    Download the above PDF for the full answer to this question

  • Is there a tryout fee? Can I get a refund if my player does not make a team?

    There is a non-refundable tryout fee that all players are expected to pay prior to participating in the tryout/evaluation process. This tryout fee is applied to your account balance, and is included as part of the season fee. If a player tries out for a travel team and does not make a team, they are expected to participate in the evaluation process for NWHL.

    If there is not a team for a player to be placed on, the tryout fee will be refunded. All final decisions are made by the Cyclones Finance Committee.

  • What's the difference between "Tryouts" and "Evaluations"?

    Tryouts are held by teams participating in the CSDHL and NIHL travel leagues. Players participate in up to 4 tryout sessions at the beginning of the season. This occurs in mid-August for 15U-18U players and no earlier than Sep 1 for 10U/12U/14U players. At the conclusion of tryouts, the coaching staff chooses players based on skill level to fill their teams. It is possible that not all players will be selected for a team.

    Two evaluation sessions are held for the teams participating in the NWHL league. Evaluations are a no-cut process where players are evaluated based on their skill and then are placed on teams during a draft process, where each Cyclones team takes turns selecting players until their teams are full. While this is a no-cut process, space on teams is limited and players will be chosen for roster spots on a first-come, first-serve basis, based on their registration date.

  • If my child missed tryouts/evaluations, can they still be placed on a team?

    All players are expected to participate in all tryouts or all evaluations for their respective registration. This means that if you registered for Travel, you are expected to attend ALL tryout sessions for your age level. If you registered for House, you are expected to attend ALL evaluation sessions for your age level.

    If, for some reason, you're unable to attend your appropriate sessions, it is best to discuss these situations with the Cyclones Hockey Director, Pete Rutili.