We believe that competing on a team develops not only athletic skill but teaches commitment, discipline, perseverance, builds confidence and instills a sense of belonging. Last season, Rapids had 26 club teams that competed in OVA tournaments. In some age divisions, we are offering 4 teams. This allows for athletes to participate at the high-performance level as well as providing opportunity for a broad range of experience and skill. We are committed to providing a great team experience for all!!
Rapids A – High Performance Team
Many of the Rapids High Performance teams are competing within the OVA Premier/Select Divisions. In some age categories, there are two Rapids teams at the higher levels of competition. Practices will be fast paced and demanding. Athletes are expected to have a strong work ethic, an understanding of what it means to be a part of a team and a high degree of coachability.
Expectations:
• practice 2–3 times per week
• compete in 8 tournaments – 4 OVA tournaments and 4 exhibition or age-up tournaments
• compete at Ontario Championships
• 15- 18u Legend athletes will have additional position training sessions with a Technical Coach
• Setters training available
• physical training sessions are strongly encouraged but optional
• 15-18u teams will participate in at least one US tournament and showcase.
• Nationals are optional
We are looking for athletes to compete at the highest level and are interested in the pursuit of excellence!! Typically, high performance athletes are looking to play post secondary. We ensure that all options are open by travelling to the States to compete as well as working closely with university and college coaches in Canada.
Rapids B – Challenger Teams
Challenger Athletes are pushing to the next level of excellence. They are strong athletes who may not have the experience (yet) to play on a High Performance Team but have the determination and tenacity to fight for their team’s success and their own personal development. Challenger athletes will work towards building a solid foundation in skill development and have high expectations for the success of their team as they progress in their season.
Expectations:
• practice at 2-3 times per week
• compete in 6-8 tournaments – 4 OVA tournaments and 2-4 exhibition or age-up tournaments
• physical training sessions are strongly encouraged but optional
• additional training sessions with a Rapids Technical Coach • Setters training
• compete at Ontario Championships
• participation in US tournaments are strongly encouraged but optional
• Nationals are optional
Challenger athletes will have the ability to form a team bond where there is a variety of skill level and experience. Challenger athletes will be leaders and the experienced athletes will find positive ways to encourage the skill development of new athletes on the team. This team will post strong results. Challenger coaches are working to develop and prepare athletes for High Performance teams.
Rapids C – Advancing Athletes
Advancing athletes are working on building confidence in their skill set. Advancing athletes are valued for their passion and commitment. They will need good attention to detail as they work on the fundamentals. Coaches will work on building a competitive attitude within their team. Advancing athletes will have a strong advantage when trying out for their school team.
Expectations:
• practice 2- 3 times a week
• compete in 5 -7 tournaments – 4 OVA tournaments & at least one extra exhibition or age-up tournament
• physical training sessions are optional
• additional technical sessions with a Rapids Technical Coach
• compete at Ontario Championships
• participation in US tournaments are optional
• Nationals are optional
Advancing Coaches have high expectations of their team’s progress during the season. Coaches will set attainable goals throughout the year to monitor that progress. Hard work and focus during drills will elevate the Advancing athlete’s performance. Advancing athletes will work towards skill consistency and confidence in competition. The Rapids club will provide opportunities for inter club competitions so that athletes can work on competition protocol and readiness.
Rapids D – Evolving Athletes
Evolving athletes are at the heart of the Rapids inclusive play philosophy. Coaches at this level will build a positive environment in practice where mistakes are recognized as an integral part of the learning process. There are high expectations for this team in terms of skill progression throughout the year. The social component is an important element. Evolving athletes will have a strong team identity.
Expectations:
• practice 2 times a week
• compete in 5-7 tournaments – 4 OVA tournaments and 1-3 exhibition or age-up tournaments
• physical training sessions are optional
• additional training sessions with a Technical Coach • compete at Ontario Championships
• participation in US tournaments are encouraged
• Nationals are optional
Coaches working with Evolving athletes will recognize the value of participation and embrace the philosophy that being a part of a team contributes to the whole development of a young person. Coaches will focus heavily on skill development and will coach with a combination of patience and encouragement. The Rapids club will provide opportunities for inter club competitions so that athletes can work on competition protocol and readiness.
