R4U FAQ
When do R4U assessments start?
R4U assessments for the 2022/2023 season will be posted as soon as the information is available.
Where do I register?
Go to the following link to register: https://www.swra.ca/registration-1
​Registration will close on Sunday September 11, 2022.
How many days a week is ringette and where is the home rink?
There is usually 1 practice per week. The practice location, date and time are TBD, but they are generally at the same rink, date, and time each week. The rink is within the SWRA area.
There are usually “games” on Saturday and/or Sunday. Games are shared ice times with other teams, either another SWRA R4U team or an R4U team from another association. Games are at SWRA rinks and rinks around the city, normally the same few rinks for the whole season.
How long is the season?
The season starts in October and runs into March.
How does this work moving forward if we decide to go for it?
If you and your child have decided to sign up for this amazing sport, you can register at the following link: https://www.swra.ca/registration-1
Before the season starts there will be assessment ice times. You will be notified of assessment locations, dates, and times once that information is confirmed.
Once teams are formed, you will be notified of practice and game schedules for the season.
What are assessments for?
At the beginning of the year, each child is assessed to make sure they are entering into the R4U program at the right stage for them. Assessment ice times consist of a series of drills run by Ringette Manitoba instructors. Instructors observe and assess each child, and then place them into one of two skill level groups.
Why are there different levels?
Each R4U team will have a similar ratio of each skill level. During practices the team may break out into their two groups to perform more appropriate drills for their level. During games the players from each group play against one another. The more experienced players play lengthwise using 3/4 of the ice. The less experienced players play widthwise using 1/4 of the ice.
What if my child is 8 years old, and new to ringette?
If your child is 8 years old new to ringette, it is recommended they go into the R4U program to get some basic skills before moving into U10 next year. U10 is “Under 10”, typically for players 8 and 9 years old. If you are not sure, let’s chat on the phone.
What equipment do I need and where do I buy it?
Go to the following Ringette Canada link to see what equipment is needed: https://www.ringette.ca/our-sport/equipment-standards/
Please note that a ringette mask is very different than a hockey mask. Also, hockey pants and socks are ok at this age.
You will get a free ringette stick for registering, which you will receive at the first assessment. If you have a stick already, you can save it for when your child grows. If you do not have a stick already, we will lend you one for the assessment because sticks need to be cut to fit.
At this age kids grow so fast, so used equipment is often the way to go.
Can we try ringette before we decide?
SWRA will be hosting a Come Try Ringette event in September, location, date, and time TBD. There are also Come Try Ringette events in other areas of the city and province too. Check the Come Try Ringette website for event listings: https://www.cometryringette.ca/events/