Newbie question. Since you can try out at multiple clubs going into minor bantam, how quickly do they issue offers and how long do you have to respond before they give the spot away?

I am wondering if it’s possible to compare offers from multiple clubs before deciding, especially if you attend tryout nights several days apart.

I have had success in sticking with the home rink if at all possible. Once you are a club hopper, then you are a club hopper.  It is not a term of endearment. We all know who the club hoppers are.

Being honest with your home club and all of the potential new clubs is also a good idea.  "Little Johnny only wants to play A hockey". And "Little Johnny is trying out for PHC, FE, and PLF".

Pick one favorite club by doing research in the off season, attending multiple pre-skates, getting private lessons from the new rink, and talking to other parents.  Then prioritize that.

My advice would be to pick a "favorite" club that offers most of what you want and then ask the other earlier clubs for a time extension. 

Most teams get "filled" within 24 hours but they have the leeway to add the 15th or 16th skater later on.

Now, you do risk getting placed a lower team if you wait.

Honest, sincere communication is key to the process.

I was almost in your situation for next year.  I had my plan developed and then someone whispered in my ear that my son was penciled in to the top team for next year.  I trust this person. And it isn't coming TB or anybody in South Jersey (LOL). Maybe it doesn't work out. But that's the plan.

Sort of.

Teams can see your player for 5 minutes and slot him in where they think he can help the club.  One tryout is usually enough.

But you can ask for more time until you get all of your offers, especially in your situation.

Most teams are more desperate than you think.  They can wait a week. Some teams might be stacked and those teams won't honor your request.  But if they do that, well....then you have your answer. Your kid prolly aint cracking that top team.