University Ringette in BC
University Ringette has arrived in British Columbia! Be a part of history by being involved with either the University of British Columbia (UBC) team in the Lower Mainland, or the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) team in Prince George. Ringette players throughout Canada are realizing that graduating from high school does not have to mean graduation from ringette. University ringette teams are sprouting up across the country, giving our current players more chances to be a part of the fastest team game on ice, and giving many new players a chance to experience it for the first time. What is going on with University Ringette in Canada?
In the past few years the expansion, growth, and increasing interest in Ringette played at different Universities across Canada has been evident. In January 2007, there were 8 schools that competed in the ninth (9) annual University Challenge Cup (UCC) hosted by Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario: University of Ottawa, Alberta, Manitoba, Calgary, Trent-Waterloo, Laurentian University and Carleton University. The main objective of the UCC is to provide an annual opportunity for university/college teams across the country to meet and play each other, and to raise the visibility and profile of University ringette in Canada. This season it has been projected that there will be upwards of 25 University Ringette teams throughout the country, ranging in caliber from “rec C” teams to “elite AAA” teams.
Who is eligible to play?
Participation on Univerisity teams is open to any student registered in post-secondary education in British Columbia, including colleges and universities throughout the province. As a student you must be registered in at least one (1) class each semester and it is expected that all players keep up their academic standing while participating on the University ringette team.
What is the caliber and age requirements of the team?
The caliber of the team is Open A. While we will be playing in the Open A division, belle players who are attending post-secondary education are welcome to play.
Can I play for another team as well, such as house, AA, or the REIGN?
As we are trying to increase the participation of players in BC and not take away players from any home association, players will be able to double card; therefore, players are encouraged to play at the University level and at the home association level.
All players MUST register with a local association in order to participate with the university team. Registration may be as a full member or affiliate member.
What major competitions and events is the team planning on attending?
We have included a general season overview to give potential athletes an idea of the commitment required. This is a suggested schedule, to be finalized once the team roster is set.
- Burnaby Icebreaker Tournament
- University Challenge Cup in Niagara Falls, starting January 1, 2009
What’s the plan for fundraising and promoting the team?
In return for allowing the University team to participate in the league, the team will offer support to the league and the associations by providing volunteer hours towards camps, clinics, try-outs, local tournaments, provincials, etc. Some associations have already offered their support through gaming money set aside to “hire” our athletes to run these camps and clinics. Fundraising opportunities will be set up throughout the season. It is expected that all athletes contribute towards these events.
Is there any sponsorship lined up?
Currently we are working with a local clothing supplier to get uniforms and walk-out wear. As the season starts we hope to pursue more of these opportunities. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.
How do I register and what about insurance?
Players will be required to register with their home association. The registration fees paid to your local association include registration fees with BC Ringette and BC Ringette insurance. Registering as affiliate players (those not playing for their home association) also includes BC Ringette insurance.
Anything else?
This team is about the athletes and where it goes will depend greatly upon the efforts of its members and the support of the league. We look forward to the following season as we avidly believe this is a vital step in increasing the expansion of ringette at a Provincial and National level.