Dear Owen Sound Minor Hockey Families,
Happy New Year from everyone at Owen Sound Minor Hockey! As we step into 2025, we are excited to share some significant updates that will shape the future of minor hockey in Ontario and provide new opportunities for players, families, and our hockey community.
A Historic Change in Minor Hockey:
On December 17, 2024, the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) – Ontario’s governing body of all sanctioned ice hockey – announced an historic change to the structure of minor hockey across the province. Beginning next season, borders for player movement will be open for U10 and above, at all levels – HL, BB, A, AA, AAA, and more. Check out the links below for more information:
In essence, this means that players U10 and older are now free to play anywhere in the province; it is total Freedom of Movement. Previously, for Representative ‘A’ teams within Owen Sound, we were only allowed to accept 3 Non-Resident Players (NRP) on our teams (U12 and older). Now, there is no limit on the number of “Non-Resident” players that can be rostered on teams from U10 and up. Additionally, Owen Sound resident players are no longer restricted to staying in Owen Sound to play Rep or Local League hockey. This change marks the most significant shift in minor hockey in Ontario in over 30 years.
Why the Change?
The OHF has implemented this new ‘Freedom of Movement’ rule to adapt to the evolving landscape of minor sports, which is increasingly player- and parent-centric. The belief is that players and their families, who invest their time and resources, should have the freedom to choose the environment that best suits their needs and fosters their development. This move aligns the OMHA (our direct governing body under the OHF) with other minor sports organizations across the country, as well as the Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA), the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL), and the Ontario Women’s Hockey Association (OWHA). Locally, we've seen the positive impact of this approach with the growth and development of the Owen Sound Girls Hockey program.
Embracing the Opportunities:
While we recognize that this change comes with its own set of challenges and concerns, Owen Sound Minor Hockey is committed to embracing this new landscape with enthusiasm and determination. Our focus will be on leveraging this opportunity to continue our success and provide the best possible growth and development experiences for our players and families.
We are proud to be a regional hub for Grey & Bruce Counties, offering some of the best hockey opportunities in the area.
- Top Tier Facilities: Our players skate in some of the best facilities in the region, including the OHL-level Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre, home to the Owen Sound Attack, along with two additional official-size rinks at the Rec Centre.
- Unparalleled Opportunities for Growth: Owen Sound Minor Hockey players benefit from a Player-Centric Development Model designed to support growth at every level. This includes:
- Access to skill development sessions led by Owen Sound Attack Assistant Coaches.
- Power skating programs delivered by professional skating instructors.
- Tailored development clinics through initiatives like the Cub Academy and Keeper’s Crease, which provide additional training above and beyond regular practices
- Meaningful Game Experiences: Players in Owen Sound always enjoy full-length games for all age groups, in strict adherence to OMHA guidelines. This commitment ensures that every game is an authentic opportunity for players to learn, compete, and grow, without adjustments for convenience.
- A Legacy of Excellence: Owen Sound Minor Hockey takes pride in developing players who excel both on and off the ice. Many go on to succeed at Junior, collegiate, and even professional levels, often returning to give back to the community that shaped them, reinforcing our strong community bond.
- Community Pride and Support: Owen Sound’s hockey culture is deeply rooted in our community. Families, businesses, and fans rally together to make hockey more than just a sport—it’s a shared passion that unites us all.
Our Commitment to Excellence:
Under the new landscape, it is unavoidable that the strongest organizations will thrive, and our Executive makes no apologies that it is our goal to be a strong hockey centre offering the area’s best growth and development opportunities for players/parents both on and off the ice. We remain committed to understand the new rules thoroughly and adapt our approach to best serve our membership now and in the future.
Our geographic location and excellent infrastructure make us a natural choice, but it’s our commitment to growth, development, and community that will ensure Owen Sound is “where you want to play.”
Thank you for your continued support as we navigate this exciting new chapter in Ontario minor hockey. We look forward to building upon our strong foundation and ensuring that Owen Sound Minor Hockey continues to grow and succeed in this new era of Freedom of Movement.
James McGregor
President
Owen Sound Minor Hockey,
On behalf of the entire OSMHG Executive Team.