Hello and welcome to the 2018-2019 season. This year looks to be a great one with all teams officially rolling and well underway.
Hello and welcome to the 2018-2019 season.
This year looks to be a great one with all teams officially rolling and well under way. After bringing home gold at the OMHA championships in March, our Midget Rep team is off to another good start this season. Let's hope those new jerseys make it two in a row! Having representative and local league teams covering all divisions, comprised of players from both within and outside our community, is providing for a bright future.
One of our key focuses this year is player development which falls in line with the OMHA's implementation of half-ice play for younger aged players. The ultimate goal is to make it fun for the kids to play hockey by engagement and skill development. These are the most influential years in a child's life and we plan to make it a positive and rewarding experience.
This year we have a number of new board members that bring with them new ideas and a new way of thinking. We are continuously finding ways to improve as an organization, to be as transparent and efficient as possible. Streamlining processes and the use of checks & balances, are helping us get there. New jerseys were implemented for all local league teams this year. More player and goalie clinics will be offered and more time will be spent with coaches to better align our coaching core philosophies. We have a number of exciting ideas in expanding our horizons in the near future which will make the EHMHA an even better place to play so stay tuned for more.
In my 12+ years as an on-ice helper, trainer, coach and board member, I truly enjoy the opportunity to give back my time and energy to this organization, which has provided my own children with many years of great coaching and wonderful experiences. I have also enjoyed working with our many volunteers - who continue to provide services and opportunities for all the players in the EHMHA to enjoy.
In closing, I would like to thank you, the parents, for bringing the kids to all the practices and games, coffee in hand, supporting the sport. A special thanks goes out to all of our volunteers, coaches and staff for the countless hours and sacrifices that they make both visibly and behind the scenes, in order for our association to be successful. It is this hard work and dedication that will benefit the growth of the EHMHA. I would encourage anyone wishing to volunteer to do so, as the continued success of our non-profit organization depends largely on volunteers and the participation of our members. We can all play a part in making hockey a positive experience for our players.
Have a great season.
GO DEVILS GO!
Regards,
Arnie Brakel
President
Erin-Hillsburgh Minor Hockey Association