Trials & Selections

Find upcoming trials, key dates, and selection information

How Trials and Selections Work

Before you attend a trial, it’s helpful to understand how the process works, what selectors are looking for, and what happens after selections are made. Expand the sections below for more detail.

Trials are open to players who are eligible for selection into Wellington representative teams for their age group. These teams compete in regional and national tournaments throughout the season.

Age groups typically include:

Under 16

Under 18

Under 21

NHC Senior Representative Teams

Masters (where applicable)

Eligibility criteria, including age cut-offs and any transfer or clearance requirements, are outlined in the information for each trial, or reach out to the Office if you have any questions.
Trials usually take place over one or more sessions and involve a mix of skill activities and game play. Selectors are looking at how players apply their skills under pressure, make decisions, communicate, and contribute to a team environment.

Not every trial looks the same. The format can vary depending on the age group, but the focus is always on giving players the opportunity to show their strengths in realistic hockey situations.
We understand that injuries, illness, or other commitments can sometimes prevent attendance at a trial. In these cases, players should contact Wellington Hockey Office as early as possible.

Alternative consideration may include previous performances, recent matches, or future assessment opportunities, depending on the programme. While attending trials is strongly encouraged, each situation is considered individually.
After trials are completed, independent selectors meet to review performances across all sessions. This process takes time to ensure decisions are fair and consistent.

Once selections are finalised, players and families will be contacted directly with the outcome and next steps. Timeframes can vary by programme, but we aim to communicate updates as clearly and promptly as possible.
Selection into a particular team is not a judgement of a player’s ability or potential, but a decision about where they are likely to develop best at that point in time.

Players who are not selected are encouraged to:

Continue playing club or school hockey

Engage in development programmes

Seek feedback on where to improve

Trial again in future seasons

Players develop at different rates, and many athletes progress into representative teams over time as opportunities and readiness align.
Representative programmes involve costs that cover travel, food, accommodation and tournament team entry fees.

Time commitments can include weekly trainings, practice matches, and attending tournament. Full details, including estimated costs and training schedules, are shared with players once selections are confirmed so families can make informed decisions.

Information on this page is updated as required. Specific details for each trial, including age eligibility and registration deadlines, are published with each event.