Division 6 Selection Process – Summer 2025/26

We're making some positive changes to how players are selected for our top team, Division 6, starting this Summer season. This is all about fairness, transparency, and making sure we’re building the strongest and most cohesive team possible. Here's what you need to know:

Why the change?

We heard you. Feedback from recent player surveys and team conversations made it clear: we need a clearer and fairer process. Players asked for transparency, consistency, and a reduction in bias. We've designed this process in direct response to that feedback.

Our Approach

We’re taking a balanced, step-by-step approach that draws from multiple sources – including current players and impartial observers – with edge cases and special situations reviewed by the committee. To help reduce bias, most of the data used will be de-identified wherever possible. This process isn’t about one standout moment on the ice; it’s about overall contribution to the team, on-ice skills, and team and club fit.

Our longer-term aim is to build towards entering a Division 5 team. This process helps us demonstrate we can field a well-organised and competitive top squad.

We know selections can cause stress or uncertainty. That’s why we’re being open about the process and doing everything we can to make it fair, respectful, and clear. If you have questions or want to know more, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the committee.

The Process

Expressions of interest

First, we ask all players (especially those interested in Division 6) to submit an Expression of Interest. This helps us understand whose wishes to play and is eligible for a spot on the team. We aim to have a roster of 18 skaters.

Eligibility considerations

We prioritise current or recent Div 6 players, while also remaining open to returning players (who haven’t played in more than two seasons) and new faces. In these cases, players may be considered if we observe they have the required skill level, support the LGBTQ+ community, share the values of the Southern Lights, and have a clear reason for choosing our club over others. 

Confidential Ratings

We gather confidential input from our coaches and team leaders, suggested by players, separately using a simple A-B-C system:

A = A strong match for the team based on current performance and fit

B = A good candidate for the team, if space permits

C = We see great potential, but may fit and contribute to another team or division.

All ratings shall be de-identified before being reviewed - both the person who made the rating and the player it applies to. E.g. "Player 241: A-B-B"

Impartial game observations

Neutral, experienced players (who do not play in Div 6 and are not affiliated with the Southern Lights) will observe three Division 6 games (one game per observer). Their role is to provide consistent and impartial feedback on player performance using clear, agreed-upon criteria. Rather than focusing on big plays or goals, observers will look at the overall contribution each player makes to their team; positioning, awareness/hockey sense, pace and intensity, defensive play, puck handling,  and how well they are observed to contribute on the ice.

Observers will use a simple system during the game: a "+1" for an observed positive contribution, and a "-1" for actions that may not have supported play. Only jersey numbers will be listed, allowing observers to record their observations easily. If a player does not receive enough observations (whether positive or negative), their data will not be included to avoid drawing conclusions from limited input.

To build confidence in the process while maintaining privacy, the identities of observers will remain anonymous. However, we will share their current division and team, their primary playing position, the length of their playing experience, and the game they observed. The group will include a mix of genders, and will be selected for their understanding of all of hockey, not a blind focus on one aspect (eg goal scoring). 

Their observations will be recorded as "Player 241: +4/-2,  +7/-3,   +2/-6"

Decision making

The selection subcommittee will review all the data collectively. No single source or metric determines the outcome, and this isn’t a simple numbers game. Instead, we carefully consider all inputs to form a well-rounded view of each player’s suitability. Decisions will be documented in a manner that can be shared with players upon request. To reduce unconscious bias, player names will be replaced with ID numbers during the review process.

New players or players returning after 2 seasons off

For players who are not currently on the Div 6 team but submit an EOI indicating interest and meet the eligibility criteria, impartial observers must observe at least one game or scrimmage. This ensures a fair opportunity for assessment based on current performance in a game-like environment. If available, we will seek ratings from previous coach's to include in the considerations.

What if I'm not selected?

Not being selected for Division 6 this time doesn’t mean you’re not valued or that you don’t belong in the division. Selection is competitive, and spaces are limited. We have many talented players across the club, and team composition is determined by multiple factors. If you’re not offered a spot on the Div 6 roster, we’ll do our best to offer you a place on another team where you can continue to have fun, build your skills, and your connection with the club.