Manitoba Selects – Parent FAQ 2025 Season
Program Overview
Q: Who can join the Manitoba Selects this year?
A: The Manitoba Selects program is open to all athletes between the ages of 7 and 18. For athletes who are hardworking , coachable who give effort, and a willingness to learn.
Q: How is the program divided by age and skill?
A: Players aged 12 and under are part of the Developmental Division. These athletes are automatically invited to participate in all Manitoba Selects events this year, including Grand Forks and Saskatchewan. The focus is on growth, learning, and gaining experience in real game environments.
Players aged 13 and older are part of the High School Competitive Division. This level is play-to-win, meaning athletes are evaluated through game film and overall performance. Athletes who meet Selects standards will receive a Red Letter, indicating they’ve qualified for the Saskatchewan Showcase and other competitive travel events.
Q: What if my child doesn’t receive a Red Letter right away?
A: That’s totally fine. Players who haven’t received a Red Letter yet should attend all tryouts, practices, and the Grand Forks trip, and join the base program for proper evaluation. Coaches use these events to assess effort, fundamentals, and readiness for competitive play.
Q: What is the purpose of the Red Letter?
A: The Red Letter is an official invitation for players who have demonstrated readiness to compete at a higher level. It’s our version of a selection notice. Only Red Letter athletes advance directly into elite showcases like Saskatchewan.
Grand Forks Trip (Developmental + Competitive)
Q: Who is eligible to attend the Grand Forks trip?
A: Everyone is welcome. The Grand Forks event is open to all new and returning players. There is no tryout required for Developmental Division athletes (12 and under) — this trip is a key part of their learning and growth. For High School players (13 and up), especially those with limited playing film, Grand Forks serves as an important evaluation opportunity. Coaches will assess performance, attitude, and effort to help determine readiness for the Saskatchewan Showcase and future travel events.
Q: What are the Grand Forks trip dates and location?
A: November 8–9, 2025, at the UND High Performance Center and Alerus Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota.
Q: What does the weekend include?
A: Saturday scrimmages at the High Performance Center, a team meal at Pizza Ranch, and Sunday tournament games from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alerus Center. A tournament jersey is provided, and there will also be a fun outing at the Splash Water Park.
Q: What travel documents are needed?
A: Players aged 16 and older must have a valid passport. Players aged 15 and under may travel with an original birth certificate or citizenship card instead of a passport.
Q: Are parents welcome to travel?
A: Absolutely. Families are encouraged to join the trip and enjoy the weekend together. Hotel details are included in your registration confirmation email or families can make their own arrangements.
Q: When are payments due?
A: Final payments for the Grand Forks trip is due November 2, 2025 unless payment arrangements before the trip have been made. Please refer to the Grand Forks registration section for hotel links and payment instructions.
Q: Can fundraising credits be applied to this trip?
A: No. Grey Cup fundraising credits will be applied after the Grey Cup event and cannot be used toward Grand Forks.
Saskatchewan Showcase
Q: What is the Saskatchewan Showcase?
A: This is a competitive, play-to-win tournament for Developmental & Selects High School Division athletes who have earned their Red Letter through consistent performance and film review.
Q: How are players chosen for Saskatchewan?
A: Selection is based on game film from Grand Forks and practices, coach evaluations, and overall effort, leadership, and skill development.
Q: When will Saskatchewan roster selections be made?
A: December coaches will review film and announce the official Saskatchewan roster.
Additional questions
How does travel work?
Families usually travel with their athletes to tournaments and showcases, staying at a block-booked hotel. To save costs, families often carpool or arrange for their athlete to travel with a trusted family. Personal travel expenses are not included in the $350 trip fee, so families are responsible for their own travel arrangements.
If your athlete is eligible to travel but you are unable to make travel arrangements, please contact our team as soon as possible for information on our Team Bus Chaperone Packages.
Do you provide football equipment?
Yes, we offer equipment rentals for a $75 fee, with a refundable $175 deposit upon the return of the equipment. However, before renting from Manitoba Selects, check with your club or high school football team to see if they will allow you to keep your gear to avoid extra fees. Helmets are not rented out and are encouraged to purchase yourself.
What is the difference between Manitoba Selects and other provincial travel teams?
Manitoba Selects is the only Manitoban football team sanctioned by Heads Up Football and partnered with the NFL. Under this partnership, we are able to travel internationally, unlike other provincial teams, which are limited to playing within Canada. This limitation restricts their exposure to Canadian opportunities only.
With Manitoba Selects, our athletes get the chance to compete in North America’s football hotspots, optimizing valuable experiences and increasing scouting opportunities by attending major American and Canadian competitions. Additionally, we offer multiple trips throughout the season, preparing athletes to perform confidently in high-pressure situations.
What if I don’t get selected to travel?
Even if you're not selected to travel, you will still be able to develop and practice with Manitoba Selects. Our training will prepare you for your upcoming seasons, giving you valuable experience and skills for the future.
If you have additional questions, feel free to contact our team for more information!