Travel and house hockey teams offer different experiences for young players, each catering to various levels of commitment and competition.
Travel teams typically involve a higher level of competition and commitment, requiring players to participate in games and tournaments outside of their local area. While some travel teams may occasionally compete in tournaments farther away, Knights Hockey travel teams primarily play within a manageable driving distance, including Buffalo, Syracuse, and surrounding regions. These teams tend to have more rigorous practice schedules and may feature higher-skilled players, aiming to compete at a regional or even national level. These teams are selected through a tryout process, and not everyone is guaranteed a position on the team.
House hockey teams are more focused on providing recreational play, typically within a local league. House teams emphasize fun, skill development, and inclusivity, with less travel and lower time commitments, making them ideal for players who want to enjoy the game without the pressure of extensive travel or intense competition. Team placement is conducted through an evaluation process however players are guaranteed a roster spot on a team.
| Travel | House | |
|---|---|---|
| Team Formation | Tryout process. Roster spot not guranteed. Players chosen by coaches. | Evaluations when multiple teams being fielded. Roster spot guranteed |
| Cost | Highly dependent on team's season plan but in general more expensive as there are more games, tournaments and practices. | Typically reflective of a "standard" experience including league games, 1 tournament and weekly practices. |
| Time Committment | League games and scrimmages are often played within a 1-2 hour radius. Tournaments can be as far as 4-5 hours. 2-3 games played in a weekend. | League games and scrimmages played in a .5 - 1 hour radius. 1-2 games per weekend. Tournaments usually within a 1-2 hour radius. |