Bears Selects Program
NEW for 2026 - 2027 Season Bears Selects is the hockey extension of the Knoxville Jr. Ice Bears development model, designed for motivated players who want additional competitive opportunities. This program gives players the chance to train, compete, and represent the Bears in select-style events while continuing to develop locally through high-level coaching, structured practices, and competitive gameplay.
Development First Model
Our focus is to keep development at the center of the experience. Players will receive purposeful instruction, meaningful ice touches, competitive training, and opportunities to apply their skills in higher-paced game environments.
This model allows families to invest directly into coaching, development, repetition, and competition instead of building the entire season around travel costs.
Select Team Opportunities
Throughout the season, Bears Selects players may be offered opportunities to participate in select-style events, including tournaments, jamborees, exhibition games, and additional competitive experiences.
Tournament and event participation may be offered on an à la carte basis depending on player availability, roster needs, and event scheduling. This gives families flexibility while still allowing players to experience a higher level of competition.
Program Structure
Bears Selects Program will operate on a two-touch-per-week model consisting of one team practice and one game each week. This structure provides players with consistent development opportunities through focused instruction, skill progression, and game application while maintaining a manageable commitment for families. The combination of weekly practice and competitive gameplay allows players to continue improving their skills, hockey IQ, and confidence in a select-style environment throughout the season.
Who This Program Is For
Bears Selects is designed for motivated players who:
- Want additional development beyond their regular season team
- Are ready for a faster-paced training environment
- Want to compete in select-style events
- Have a strong attitude and willingness to be coached
- Are committed to improving their skills and hockey IQ
- Want to represent the Knoxville Jr. Ice Bears in additional competitive opportunities
Player Requirements
To participate in Bears Selects, players must have:
- Current USA Hockey registration
- Full hockey equipment
- Basic skating and hockey experience
- Ability to participate safely in a competitive environment
- Positive attitude and strong effort
- Commitment to team expectations when participating in events
This is not a Learn-to-Play program. Players should already have hockey experience before registering or being considered for Bears Selects..
Games
Game Day Focus
- Team play and sportsmanship
- Small-area game development
- Increased puck touches and decision making
- Competitive but age-appropriate hockey
- Building confidence through game experience
Jerseys
Families who do not currently own a jersey will be prompted during registration to purchase a custom Knoxville Jr. Ice Bears Pro Style Jersey. Each jersey will feature the player's name and number and will be used throughout the season for Saturday team games and other program activities.
Extra Costs
Tournament participation is available throughout the season for players seeking additional competition. Tournament entry fees and team-related event costs will be divided among participating players only, allowing families the flexibility to choose events that fit their schedule and budget.
Bears Hockey Community
Bears Selects is part of our continued effort to build a stronger Knoxville hockey pathway. Our goal is to give players more opportunities to develop, compete, and stay connected to the Knoxville Jr. Ice Bears community while creating a smarter, more flexible model for select hockey.
Selects Winter 2026 - 2027
Bears Selects is a development and competition program designed for motivated players seeking additional ice time, advanced skill training, and select team opportunities. Players will work with experienced Knoxville Jr. Ice Bears and Pro Vision Hockey Academy coaches in a high-tempo environment focused on skating, puck skills, hockey IQ, and game performance. The program includes specialized practices, skills sessions, exhibition games, tournaments, and other development opportunities throughout the year, providing players with an affordable and flexible way to continue improving while representing the Knoxville Jr. Ice Bears program.
Register