Hello
SSMHA players and families. With registration now complete, it is time to
provide you with an update on 2021-2022 season structure.
SSMHA
has adopted Hockey Canada’s Player
Pathways program, which includes a 5-phase approach to the 2021-2022 season
structure. This 5-phase approach is designed to provide structure for all
associations as to when players can return the ice, when evaluations can begin,
when tournaments can start, etc. The value of this approach is that it provides
clarity and consistency for all Minor Hockey Associations and, more importantly,
provides structure for players and families to begin planning for the 2021-2022
season.
So what does all this mean?
The good news is…
we are pleased to announce that SSMHA will return to the ice starting Tuesday, September 7, 2021.
For the first 3 weeks (September 7 – September 26), SSMHA will be conducting “Preparation” skates for all players registered in U8 and higher.
Note: the U7 programs will begin in October.
The Preparation Program is NOT tryouts or evaluations of any kind. Rather, the Preparation Program is specifically designed to get our hockey players back on the ice, comfortable back on skates and accustomed to their new gear, working on their individual skill development again, and set up for success for the upcoming hockey season.
Overview of the SSMHA Preparation Program:
· Each player will get 2 x 50min ice times per week for each of the first 3 weeks.
· The Preparation Program has been developed by the SSMHA Development Committee, and each player will receive the same instruction/practice plan within their division regardless of what group they are in.
· Goalie Development sessions will also be included as part of the Preparation Program.
· The Preparation Program will be led by “Divisional Captains,” who will develop and oversee the practice plans for that division. In most cases, the REP coach(es) are NOT the Divisional Captains, further supporting the idea that the Preparation Program is not Tryouts. Rather, the program is designed to get our players back on the ice and to get them ready for the upcoming season.
We are still finalizing the player number and ice time schedule, but wanted to get this important communication out to SSMHA families so you could begin planning with an understanding of the first phase of our Return to Hockey Plan.
Within the next week, we expect player numbers to be finalized. The Divisional Captains will be emailing you (using the email address that you used at time of registration) with your ice times for the Preparation Program.
It is an exciting time as hockey is right around the corner – so be sure to enjoy the last few weeks of summer fun before we see all of you back at the Arena in September.