Oakland, CA - The Oakland Bears will be holding Tryouts May 15-17 for Midget 16U AA for the 2015-16 Season. This is an excellent opportunity for 15 & 16 year old players to take their hockey game to the next level. An experienced and knowledgeable coaching staff has been assembled with the focus of developing the player both on and off the ice.  Oakland Ice Center operated by Sharks Ice is of the premier facilities on the west coast and offers excellent resources to train and develop players.  We are able to provide convenient practice and game schedules and are centrally located in the Bay Area.

The Bears have been a long standing member association of NORCAL and have produced many talented players.  The Oakland hockey program provides a true Ladder of Development for players to begin their first days on the ice and reach their maximum potential throughout their youth hockey as they progress on to juniors and possibly college.  The addition of the Midget 16UAA team is another step in providing an opportunity for players in this age group to compete at the highest level possible.

"We want to grow our program in the right areas for the players and their families.  By providing a Ladder of Development players at every age and skill level can reach their goals right here," says Hockey Manager Derek Donald.  "Too many parents are driving all over the place trying to find greener grass with more windshield time than training time which diminishes the player's abilities and overall experience."    

Chris Linden, Head Coach stated, "I have always believed in the development of players both on and off the ice and have always worked to make every season memorable and exciting. I have been very fortunate to have so many wonderful kids though the program and I have always been excited for them when they have moved on to more competitive levels. There has always been a part of me who has also wanted to keep them in Oakland where we have focused on long-term development and continue their hockey education."

Chris Linden will be assisted by Derek Donald in the coaching duties this season.