Hello All,
As we close out
2024 and look forward to the 2nd half of our season, I wanted to
take this opportunity to first thank all of our Waterloo Wolves Families and
Volunteers for a fantastic start to the Season – I know it goes without saying
that without all of your efforts and commitment to our Organization, our
success both on and off the ice is not possible! So, thank you!
Secondly, as I am sure you have heard about and read, the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) has announced that, effective next season (2025-26), there will be open borders across Ontario for players aged U10 and above at all levels, including House League (HL), Local League (LL), B, BB, A, AA and AAA. This change allows players the freedom to choose where they play, regardless of their place of residence.
We recognize this is a monumental change - possibly the most impactful change ever for minor hockey in Ontario. As we navigate through this giant shift, we ask for your patience. There are many questions to be answered, many discussions to have, decisions to make and plans to organize.
Waterloo
Minor Hockey Association (WMHA), views this development as an opportunity to
enhance our commitment to greater inclusion, continued player development, and
community pride.
It’s all part of “The Wolves Way: Shaping Athletes, Growing
Leaders.”
Our Approach:
- Inclusive Environment: We welcome players from
all communities, fostering a diverse and supportive atmosphere where every
individual can thrive.
- Focus on Development: Our programs are designed
to prioritize skill development, personal growth, and a love for the game.
While we strive to build competitive teams and aim to win, we are clear
that winning is never pursued at the expense of integrity, inclusion, or
player development. We don’t always get this right, but we continue to
try.
- Fostering Community and
Pride:
WMHA has deep roots in Waterloo, and we are proud to continue fostering
hometown pride. We aim to create a positive, supportive environment that
brings players, families, and the community together.
- Commitment to Quality
Coaching:
We intentionally focus our efforts on finding the best coaches and will
continue to do so. While we don’t always have a long line of coaching
candidates knocking on our door—something that has been impacted by
residential restrictions on players and families in the past—we are
optimistic that with those restrictions lifted, we will attract even more
amazing coaches and volunteers. We are excited to welcome new faces and
voices who want to be part of the Wolves for all the right reasons,
sharing our commitment to development, inclusion, and community.
- Supporting All Levels of
Play: At
WMHA, we value and support players and families at every level of the
game, from House League to AAA. We are proud to offer opportunities for
development and growth at all levels, recognizing that every player’s
journey is unique. Our focus is on creating meaningful experiences for
every player, no matter where they play within our association.
Through “The
Wolves Way: Shaping Athletes, Growing Leaders,” we believe we can provide a
rewarding hockey experience for all participants, balancing competitive spirit
with our dedication to inclusion, development, and community values.
Please stay tuned
to our website, for more information about our programming for the 2025-26
season and more details on WMHA initiatives for our current season.
Until then, on
behalf of our Board of Directors and Staff, we wish you all the Happiest of New
Years! Stay save, have fun, and I look forward to seeing you at the rink in 2025!
Peter Carr, President
WMHA