Tier 1/Tier 2

• Tier 1 and Tier 2 Divisions are open to ALL Teams

• Tier 1 standings will determine who qualifies for Tier 1 Regional Playoffs (exact format and # teams TBD after registration ends).

• Tier 2 divisions will continue to compete in zone playoffs as in past seasons.

• Mariner Western is considered Tier 1.

• Tiers will be determined based on factors such as school population and highest grade level. Tier preferences may only come into play in case of schedule imbalances or other factors. 

Junior (NEW for 2026)

• Junior Divisions are open only to schools without grade 9s.

• Akerley and Citadel “Junior” schools can choose to 

  • 1) continue playing in Tier 1/2, joining those schools for regional or zone playoffs, OR

  • 2) join Junior Divisions to avoid playing schools with grade nines in playoffs.

• Mariner Central is considered Junior.

• In some cases, schools that opt to play Junior may still have to play some games against schools with grade 9s during the regular season, however, during playoffs, they will play only against other Junior teams in the Capital Region. See format below.

Tier 1 Playoffs: Regional competition, Format TBD

Tier 2 Playoffs: Zone Playoffs 

Junior Playoffs: Regional Playoffs, Format TBD

Exact format for this season's playoff to be determined and will depend on # of teams registered and coach feedback.