Shallow Lake Minor Hockey Association
Return to Hockey Update for Parents
Official start date for SLMH is October 1st
We are pleased to say that the Hockey Canada and the OMHA has given us the all clear to start preparing for the upcoming season. I’m sure by now you are all wondering what the upcoming season will look like and how it will affect your child. It will be a season unlike those we are accustomed to and we probably won’t see a return to full 5 on 5 hockey until a vaccine is developed. We are currently in stage 3b of return to hockey which will be in effect until directed otherwise by he OMHA and Public Health. What does Stage 3b look like?
What will rosters look like?
Teams will be rostered to a maximum of 9 players + 1 goalie during Stage 3b. Five (5) Team officials can be rostered to each team, however, one Coach and one Trainer can be on the bench during 3-on-3 and 4-on-4 games in order to maintain physical distancing on the bench.
What will seasonal structure be for the 2020-2021 season?
During Stage 3B, players will be grouped to a maximum of 50 (5 teams of 10) or less depending on the Public Health Unit (PHU). The OHF will review the allowable maximum upon amendment by the Ontario Government. The number of 50 refers to players only. Bench Staff are not included in this cohort/bubble.
What about Tryouts? Will there be Representative hockey this year?
During Stage 3B, there will be no traditional representative hockey leagues and no tryouts. Local associations have the ability to tier players based on skill.
Will there be games played?
Following a minimum two-week development phase for any new programs, modified 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 game play with no physical contact may begin. All game play is within the local Public Health Unit. All game play must be conducted in conjunction with the local PHU and facility protocol and guidelines.
Will score be kept?
The local association will determine how their programming is delivered and is based on approval from the OMHA. Games are for fun and development only so score keeping and standings are not anticipated.
Will there still be Referees?
We are still waiting on direction from the OMHA/WOAA regarding officials.
Are modified game formats (3-on-3 or 4-on-4) required to be played using modified ice?
U9 & Below is required to be played using a modified ice format. U10 and above divisions can be played using modified ice or full ice.
Safety Protocol
Prior to the October 1st start date parents/guardians (1 per participant) must review a Return to Hockey Safety Protocol that will be emailed out to all registered participants in mid September. Below are some brief highlights of what is expected.
What will the process be for entering and exiting our arena?
This process will be communicated by your local association and is determined by your local Public Health Unit in cooperation with your facility. Your local association will provide information about their Return to Hockey Safety Protocol that will be implemented at your arena.
Are masks required to be worn on the ice?
Masks are not required to be worn on the ice. Please ensure you are following the guidelines of your local facility as to when a mask is required to be worn. This information will be included in the Return to Hockey Safety Protocol.
Will parents be allowed in the stands to watch games?
This will be determined by public health units and facility guidelines. Families should be prepared to minimize the number of parents/guardians/spectators that attend to limit the number of people in the facility. Guidelines will be included in thew Return to Hockey Safety Protocol.
Registration Update
Final registration date for Shallow Lake Minor Hockey is Monday September 7th at which time registration will be closed. Registrations after this date will only be allowed if there is a shortage of players within the age group you are registering for.
Players who have registered and who wish to withdraw their registration are asked to do so no later than September 15th. Participants who have not made a registration payment or spoke with the registrar by this date will be removed from the registration roster.
Registration fees are due by September 15th and can be paid in person by cash, cheque or credit card at the Sutton Office on the main Street in Shallow Lake on Saturday Sept 12 from 9am to 11:30 am or Tuesday Sept 15th from 6 to 8pm.
No player will be allowed on the ice until registration is paid
Refund Policy
Given the current COVID situation, SLMH has added a refund policy to protect the interests of the Association, Players and Members should the season end due to COVID shutdown.
Prior to participating in the 2020-2021 season, a member of each household will need to acknowledge that they have read and understood this policy.
Prior to October 1st is 100% of registration costs less the administration fee of $60
Prior to November 15th is 75% of registration costs less the administration fee of $60
Prior to December 31st is 50% of registration costs less the administration fee of $60
Refunds will not be issued after January 1st.