FAQ

Q: What age group are you recruiting for in 2023-24?

A: Our academy is run as a U19 men’s program. Any HS athlete born between 2005-2009 is currently eligible to take part in the program. If you fall outside of this age group please reach out to a coach to see what options you have today. info@kzenacademy.com

Q: Where are you based out of?

A: Our academy operates out of Ottawa, ON. We practice, train, and have a classroom on the La Cite College campus (801 Aviation Pkwy, K1K 4R3). 

Q: What amenities do athletes have access to?

A: Our athletes train out of the main collegiate gymnasium on campus, the same one which the College’s varsity OCAA (Ontario Colleges Athletic Association) basketball team plays in. Student-athletes have locker room access, storage on site, access to the varsity weight room, and have a designated classroom on campus for their studies. Our goal is to prepare HS athletes for the transition to a major College/University program by exposing them to high level competition, and a collegiate level facility.

Q: Do you accept international students?

A: Yes. International students, as well as out of province students are eligible for the program. There are additional documents and transcripts which must be provided for non-Ontario based students. We recommend that you contact a KAC staff member so that they can provide you with a list of educational documents that must be provided ahead of time.

Q: Are there billeting options for out of town players?

A: Yes. KAC staff will work with families to find suitable lodging for any out of town players. Depending on the age of the player and family preference this could include being billeted with a teammate, outside billet family, or personal residence. All billet families undergo a rigorous vetting process before being approved to house any athletes.

Q: La Cite College is a French-language college. Is this a Francophone only program?

A: No. Although La Cite is the largest French-language college in Ontario, students will be able to pursue their HS diploma in any of the traditional English, French, or Bilingual academic streams.

Q: What tournaments/leagues do you play in?

A: Please visit our Schedule tab for more information about our upcoming season.

Q: Do you have payment plans or financial assistance available?

A: Yes. Please use the contact us form to learn more about setting up payment plans or for financial assistance.

Q: What kind of grades do I need to have in order to be eligible?

A: In order to deliver maximum exposure for our athletes, all players need to be NCAA compliant. At a minimum this includes a GPA of 2.3 or higher, and being on track to complete the 16 core courses required by most post secondary institutions. For a full list of academic requirements, please visit the following eligibility page.

Q: What kind of academic support is available?

A: In addition to regular teaching, students will receive daily study hall hours, and be connected with a retired teacher who will make class room visits weekly to provide small group support. All students will be followed by an academic advisor to ensure they remain eligible for recruitment and on track to graduate. One on one subject specific tutoring will be available, but will come at an additional cost.

Q: What is the academic model?

A: Students will be registered in the Northern Pre-University program, which is an online schooling program used by countless high level athletes across the country. The benefit of this model is that it allows for additional time flexibility to accommodate the busy schedules of student-athletes. All courses follow the Ontario Ministry of Education requirements, are nationally and internationally recognized and approved by the NCAA Eligibility Center. All credits count towards a grade 12 high school diploma and University eligibility. This is the same model used by many CHL hockey clubs, as well as larger prep programs across North America.

Q: I don’t want to leave my current HS, is there a way to be part of the program?

A: While we strongly recommend taking in the full academy experience, there are exceptions that can be made on a case by case basis to include athletes who are completing the academic portion of their development at another institution. We strongly recommend reaching out to a KAC staff member ahead of time if this is the case for you.

Q: I have graduated grade 12 already, but didn’t receive any offers. Am I eligible?

A: Yes. A lack of offers may be due to several factors including lack of exposure, lower than anticipated grades, lack of extracurricular activities on your resume or more. Those wishing to come back for a “Grade 13” year can enrol in the academy and work at improving grades in their core 16 courses to improve their eligibility.

Q: What do you offer beyond basketball and academics?

A: We believe in developing students on and off the court. As such, we require all of our athletes to give back to the Ottawa community through various pre-planned initiatives throughout the school year. Using our extensive network of contacts, student athletes will accumulate community service hours above and beyond their 40hr minimum, earn part time employment opportunities, and experience unique team building outings throughout the season.

Q: I couldn’t find the answer to my question here, what should I do?

A: Please reach out to info@kzenacademy.com for additional information.