This is a reminder to all players, parents, coaches, and team officials regarding the rules surrounding participation in non-sanctioned hockey while registered in Hockey Canada sanctioned programming.
The Ontario Hockey Federation has a clear policy stating that individuals must choose between participating in Hockey Canada sanctioned hockey or non-sanctioned hockey. Once the season cutoff date has passed, defined as the first Friday following Labour Day, participation in any non-sanctioned hockey teams is prohibited.
Participation in non-sanctioned hockey includes playing, coaching, managing, officiating, or assisting in any capacity with a team, league, or tournament that operates outside of the Hockey Canada and OHF structure. Camps and clinics are permitted when used strictly for development. If a camp also enters tournaments or plays games, it is no longer allowed.
Any individual who participates in a non-sanctioned game after the cutoff date may be subject to suspension from sanctioned hockey for the remainder of the season and must re-apply to play next year. This can impact a player’s eligibility, as well as the involvement of coaches and team officials.
Our goal in sharing this reminder is to ensure all members clearly understand this policy and the potential consequences associated with non-compliance. We ask that all families and staff review this information carefully and ensure adherence moving forward.
Should you have any questions or need clarification on any of this, please contact us.