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Why do so many programs offer AAA Tryouts in September for their programs that start basically in April? That is even before they have had tryouts in their own winter association. Look at Let's Play Hockey. Many pages talk about September tryouts for programs that start seven months from now.

It would be like the NHL having their ameteur draft right now before they even had a chance to play in the juniors this winter or college.

Player A could get selected but Player B who was cut could pass him up this upcoming winter and actually be the better player.

Look at how demoralized a player might be if he doesn't make the A team this winter although the AAA Monkeys chose their player to play for them.

At least wait until the season gets going a bit so you can evaluate and watch the kids play.

Trying to lock kids up so they don't move to a different AAA program in September is crazy!!!

It's all about the money...

Money down = ice time bought, and practices put on the calendar. It's nice sometimes to have your schedule set ahead of time. Summer planning? Vac?

Here is an article that goes beyond the obvious money factor.

http://youthhockeyhub.com/breaking-up-is-hard-to-do/

I'd much rather get things locked in before the winter season begins. Dealing with AAA tryouts during the season could be a major distraction.

That said, you will see kids develop differently over the winter. Setting the roster early is a gamble but part of the fun.

Do the teams that have their tryouts in September typically leave a spot or two open in case of a move in or the kid that really finds his edges over the winter season?

Teams usually have a spot or two during middle of the season, so the answer to your question is absolutely if you are going to help them win.

They also try to get a jump on getting the better players by having their tryouts in the fall. You get a chance to lock up the players that are the better players and then fill the rest of your team out with a bunch of invitations or another round of tryouts in the later winter.

There are always 1st line spots available if you show you are better than the current first line-doesn't matter who. I know some blades teams are done with tryouts - invite only.

Honestly the reason so many tryouts are happening in Sept is because come October kids will have hockey commitments up until April 1 and the AAA season starts early April.

September is about the only month where there are no hockey commitments. AAA is over and Association hasn't started yet.

Fair no? Ideal no? Necessary yes...

The AAA "tryouts" have gotten earlier every year for the last ten years. Has more to do w/the # of teams. You can find a spot Feb if you want.