The start of our hockey season is quickly approaching. This weekend will be our first on the ice, information you may find useful is below.
Our first weekend will be on the West Rink at the East Gwillimbury Sports Complex and ice times this first weekend will be:
Saturday Sept 17 @ 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
10:00 am for players with last names starting with
A to L
11:00 am for players with last names starting with
M to Z
Sunday Sept 18 @ 7:00 to 9:00 am
7:00 am for players with last names starting with
M to Z
8:00 am for players with last names starting with
A to L
Once we have finished the first week evaluations, then we will re-assess our groupings and send you all a message with your ice times for Sept 24 and 25th. However, so you have an ballpark idea the ice times for that weekend are:
- Saturday Sept 24 @ 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
- Sunday Sept 25 @ 8:30 to 10:30 am
Since the change rooms have limited space it is recommended that one parent/guardian assist your child at a time. Please note, we request that once the session has started that parents DO NOT open the doors to the rink when the players are on the ice. The coaching staff will address every child's need(s) and they will notify you if he/she needs your assistance.
Equipment:
Please be reminded that for insurance purposes it is mandatory that each player be in full hockey protective equipment, this also includes a neck guard, mouth guard and a helmet with a cage. Until the teams have been assigned, then your child will also require hockey socks and jersey (if this is a problem for new players please let me know as we have jerseys/socks that your child can use).
You should also bring a labelled water bottled for your child. All water bottles should be placed on the inside of the glass so your child can get a drink when necessary. This will limit the number of distractions on the ice.
Mouth Guard Clinic:.
Also on Saturday September 17th we we are hoping to host our Annual Custom Mouth Guard Clinic for a second week from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm in the lobby of the EG Sports Complex.
Dental Professionals from the Susan’s Smile Centre will be on-site to take a mould of your player’s teeth. A custom fit mouth guard is fabricated while you wait (usually within 1-3 hours). Once it is completed the fit is checked and adjustments are made on the spot. Please note that mouth guards must be picked up same day. A protective case is included in the cost (which usually costs around $50)
Respect in Sport:
‘Respect in Hockey’ is a concept that receives considerable attention in both minor hockey and in community sport. The Ontario Minor Hockey Association is committed to the prevention of abuse, bullying and harassment, and the education of our membership.
The ‘Respect in Hockey’ initiative requires all Team Officials, On-ice Volunteers, On-Ice Officials and Parents to take the appropriate ‘Respect’ education. At least one parent or guardian of each player registered in minor hockey in the OMHA will be required to complete the Respect in Sport - Parent Program as a condition of participation. The one-hour online course is a proactive, educational program that empowers parents with the tools to ensure the game is enjoyable and respectful for themselves, their children and all other stakeholders in the game.
Please note, that your child will not be able to go on the ice if this course hasn't been completed by a parent. If you completed the course last season, you are not required to do so again. Instructions on how to take this course can be found here.
Lastly, I know this is a lot of information to take in so please check out our website as well for anything that I may have missed. We are also still looking for a Convener for this age group. I have agreed to help out until there is someone in place. The job isn't hard and you would receive lots of help. I loved doing it last year but this year I have become more involved with the association with managing equipment and our website so I just don't have the time to give all your players the attention they deserve. If you are interested, or think you may be and just want more information then please get in touch with Chris Nesbitt, VP House League.
Have a great opening weekend!!!