If you’ve ever wanted to play competitive ice hockey in the UAE, here’s your chance to be part of the reigning Emirates Hockey League champions, Dubai Oilers, through their open tryouts.
Held on Friday, August 21 at Dubai Mall and Friday, August 28 at Victory Heights, the tryouts are open to all players, regardless of experience or skill level, that are at least 16 years of age.
Assembled before the start of last season as an expansion team, the Oilers quickly established their credentials as a top-flight club by earning the regular season championship and then hoisting the coveted EHL Cup.
Now, with a chunk of the title winning team gone, the Oilers – in addition to sponsors – are looking for talent to replenish their roster. “For the second year in a row, we’re holding an open national tryout to look for the best talent in the UAE,” said Oilers player Troy Kahler.
“We were successful doing it last year, when we had three walk-ons playing for us. They were three young players who came out of the SandStorms minor hockey organisation and they played fundamental roles in our success last year.
“We’re actually losing seven players from last year’s team. We’re hoping to see what talent’s out there. Last year was great, we had close to 50 people at our tryouts and hoping to get the same again.
“We’re looking for hockey lovers and people who enjoy the game. Our biggest mantra again this year is family, fun and winning.”
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The first day of tryouts will have an on-ice component, putting players through individual skills, team-play and a scrimmage before fitness training off the ice at the arena to wrap up the 75-minute session.
Those that make it to the second day of tryouts will take part in team CrossFit off the ice at the captain’s house in Victory Heights.
The Oilers will then cut down the player pool to 25-30 people, who will try to make the final cut of the 18-20 man roster by the start of the EHL season in October.
5 Days and Counting Until #DubaiOilers #EHLTrainingCamp2015 Kicks-Off at @TheDubaiMall – @DubaiIceRink #Back2Basics pic.twitter.com/clWZjumWlJ
— Dubai Oilers (@DubaiOilers) August 16, 2015
Even if you’re a complete beginner with little expectation of making the squad or playing in the EHL, there’s no reason not to come out.
“It’s worth an experience to show up and we’re not going to turn anyone away,” said Kahler.
“We’re calling all hockey players.”
Full protective equipment is required for participation, but the Oilers can help provide gear to those that need it.
Contact Kahler at 052 678 4278 for equipment and follow the Oilers’ Facebook page at www.facebook.com/DubaiOilers.
Get ready for some hockey in the desert and earn your spot on the region’s best team on ice at the Dubai Oilers tryouts.
What: Dubai Oilers open tryouts
Where: Dubai Mall Ice Rink and Victory Heights
When: August 21 and 28 from 06:30 to 08:15
Contact: Call Kahler at 052 678 4278 and visit www.facebook.com/ DubaiOilers for more information
