2025-26 W.O.A.A Rep FAQ's (Owen Sound Minor Hockey Group)

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Print2025-26 W.O.A.A Rep FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions: Rep-Level Hockey Transition in Owen Sound  

Welcome to the FAQ section for Owen Sound Minor Hockey. In this section, we address key questions regarding the upcoming 2025-26 season and the new changes to the A-level zone teams as part of the Representative Hockey Programming pilot introduced by the Western Ontario Athletic Association (WOAA).

 

General Information

What is the Tri-Centre Minor Hockey Organization?

  • The Tri-Centre Minor Hockey Organization is a collaborative effort between Shallow Lake Minor Hockey, Bruce Peninsula Minor Hockey, and Owen Sound Minor Hockey. This initiative is part of the WOAA’s pilot program aimed at forming “Partner Zones” to develop A-level Representative Teams for more competitive play in our local region.

  • Starting in the 2025-26 season, this new program will combine resources and talent to form Representative teams for competitive hockey under the Western Ontario Athletic Association (WOAA) "A-Zone" pilot project.

What communities are included in each Zone?

  • The WOAA pilot program divides associations into six zones. The Tri-Centre Minor Hockey Organization forms Zone 1 - Tri-Centre Jr. Attack, which includes:

    • Owen Sound Minor Hockey

    • Shallow Lake Minor Hockey

    • Bruce Peninsula Minor Hockey

  • The other zones are as follows:

  • Zone 2 - Bruce Grey Bulls: Arran-Elderslie, Saugeen Shores, TCDMHA (Chatsworth)

  • Zone 3 - Midwest 49ers: Saugeen Valley, South Bruce, Walkerton

  • Zone 4 - Westcoast Whitecaps: Huron Bruce, Kincardine, Wingham

  • Zone 5 - Southwest Admirals: Blyth-Brussels, Goderich, Mid-Huron, Mitchell, Zurich

  • Zone 6 - Southeast Surge: Central Perth, Listowel, Mt. Forest, Drayton, Minto, Howick, Wallace

This structure was assembled by the W.O.A.A to ensure competitive hockey opportunities across the region while fostering collaboration among neighboring associations.

What does this mean for Owen Sound Minor Hockey members?

  • Owen Sound Minor Hockey remains deeply committed to providing top-tier hockey programming and player development. With the new Tri-Centre structure:

    • A-level Representative teams will be formed for each age group from U10 to U18.

    • B-level Representative teams will be created for U11, U13, U15, and U18 divisions in double-age cohorts.

    • Players not selected for A or B teams will be welcomed to Owen Sound Minor Hockey’s Local League programming; ensuring all players have a path for development and participation.

    • Owen Sound Minor Hockey remains committed and focused on delivering the best programming possible for our membership.

How will ice allocation work?

  • Ice time will be utilized to ensure Teams can expect an average of three ice times per week, including one home game and two practices.

What changes should we expect for registration fees?

  • Registration fees for Tri-Centre Representative teams will differ from the traditional Owen Sound Minor Hockey fees. These fees will include:

    • Personalized jerseys and socks for selected players.

    • Ice time costs that were previously managed by team managers under Owen Sound Minor Hockey.

  • Estimated fees for A-level teams range from $1,200 to $1,800, depending on age group and programming specifics. B-level fees will be comparable to current Representative team fees.

What about local hockey programming?

  • Local League hockey programming will continue to operate under Owen Sound Minor Hockey. 

  • After the A-level and B-level team tryouts, players not selected for a roster will be welcomed to participate in Local League programs. This approach ensures that all players, regardless of team placement, have access to meaningful recreational and developmental opportunities within their local hockey community.

What are the tryout details?

  • Tryouts for A-level Representative teams will take place in early May 2025, following AAA and AA tryouts. 

  • B-level tryouts will occur following A-level tryouts in the spring. Players will need to attend a minimum of three tryouts to be considered for a team. Additional information, including tryout fees, will be shared closer to the date.

What is "A-Zone" hockey?

  • “A-Zone” hockey is a pilot initiative by the WOAA aimed at creating more competitive Representative teams by merging neighboring associations into zones. This structure allows players to compete at a higher level while maintaining strong development opportunities.

How will coaching be handled?

  • A coaching committee with one representative from each association (3 in Total) will oversee the interview and selection process. 

  • Non-parent coaches are encouraged to apply to provide the best possible development opportunities for players.

  • Coaching applications will be accepted until January 24th, at which time the selection process will begin.

Will there still be fundraising opportunities?

  • Yes! Fundraising remains a vital part of managing hockey costs. Families and teams will have opportunities to organize and participate in fundraising activities to help offset expenses.

How will open borders affect this program?

  • The Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) has lifted residency restrictions starting in the 2025-26 season, allowing players to try out for any Representative team within their zone or elsewhere. This gives families greater flexibility in choosing the best fit for their hockey development.

How will this transition benefit players?

  • The Tri-Centre Minor Hockey program will:

    • Provide a higher level of competition for A-level players.

    • Maintain opportunities for development and participation for players of all skill levels.

    • Foster personal growth, teamwork, and sportsmanship, ensuring a holistic development experience within our region.

How can families stay informed?

  • Owen Sound Minor Hockey and the Tri-Centre organization will provide regular updates through email, social media, and the Owen Sound Minor Hockey website. If you have additional questions, please reach out to your association representatives.

 

 

We’re excited about this new chapter for our hockey community and remain committed to offering the best opportunities for our players and families. Thank you for your support as we work together to build a bright future for hockey in our region!