Growing up and participating in sports as a girl in Calgary, Alberta, has taught me many invaluable lessons. However, one of the most disheartening realities I've faced is the clear inequality in ice time allocation. Currently, the grandfathering rule allows men's teams to select ice times first, leaving women's teams with the scraps. This outdated policy not only disadvantages female athletes but stifles the growth and potential of women’s ice sports as a whole.

In Calgary, ice sports are an integral part of our community and culture. Yet, when it comes to ice time allocation, there is a gaping disparity. Men's teams dominate the prime slots, leaving the women's teams to fend for inconvenient and scattered time slots. This makes it nearly impossible for them to train adequately or organize their seasons with the same rigor and preparation the men's teams enjoy.

Statistics show that women's sports receive less than 5% of media coverage worldwide, and this lack of visibility starts at the grassroots level. Equality in ice time would provide a significant step forward in increasing the support, visibility, and development of women's sports. Young girls and women should not feel undervalued nor should they be fighting for basic resources.

By disbanding the grandfathering rule for ice rinks, we can create a system of fair ice time allocation. Such a move would allow both men's and women's teams to access and book times equally, ensuring everyone gets an opportunity to train, compete, and grow in their skills without bias. Implementing a rotational system or ranking method based on past performance or need could ensure that no single group monopolizes resources—creating a more equitable environment for all athletes.

Ice rinks are not just for practicing and honing sports skills; they are also forums for community-building, fostering teamwork, and personal development. Equal ice time would demonstrate a commitment to gender equality and provide a powerful message that Calgary values all its athletes equally, regardless of gender.

Let's transform our sports community into one that all athletes can be proud of. Ensure that women's and men's ice sports are treated with the same respect and consideration. Let's provide our young girls with role models to look up to and fair opportunities to succeed. Disband the grandfathering rule and pave the way for a more inclusive future.

Sign this petition to demand fair and equal ice time allocation for women’s ice sports in Calgary!