I am a caring member of the North Okanagan Minor Hockey Association community, deeply concerned about the challenges that small team sizes are posing for players, coaches and the league. Currently, it is apparent that the lack of a minimum skater policy in our U15 and U18 recreation teams leads to an unbalanced and exhausting season. This is not just a trivial matter; it directly affects the quality of hockey in our league and, ultimately, the enjoyment of our cherished sport. 

Research has shown that team size in sports can significantly influence the dynamics of the game, the performance of teams and the satisfaction of players (Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, 2016). In the case of hockey, the sport's intensity and swift character require a substantial number of substitutes to keep players topped up with energy, endurance, and lessen the risk of injuries.

Therefore, I am urging the North Okanagan Minor Hockey Association to put in place a policy that sets a minimum of 15/16 skaters for U15 and U18 recreation teams, before the association declares or hosts Rep teams in that age category. If there's a special case which requires lesser players, please make it contingent upon the agreement of the team coach and team manager.

I firmly believe that implementing this policy will bring greater balance to our games, reduce the stress on our young players and coaches, and enrich the experience for all involved in our beloved hockey league. Please, sign this petition to help make our sporting community a better place for everyone.

The U18 Recreation 2024/25 season started September 16, with no coach at the first practice, like no adult to provide instruction or supervision. One Senior player stepped up and lead the group and players deserve a lot of credit they held a great practice. But everyone, players and parents felt forgotten. We had 11 players on the roster, this included 2 goalies. So 9 skaters.

September 23, 2024 there was a parent meeting with two executive members, where there were discussions of possibly forfeiting the team due to a lack of coach and low player numbers. At this time the Rep team had not been finalized yet. There was a discussion on how we could possibly get things to work for the team. Looking into who played in the past and was not registered, were there any U15 players that could move up or be ap’d. What I would need to do to get my coaching. 

Parents on the Rec team question, how is the association hosting a Rep team, and talking about forfeiting the recreation team.

The U18 Rec team had 13 skaters and 2 goalies on December 11, 2024. Two were injured since mid-October and will not return to the ice until the new year for practices, Games TBA. Which is 11 skaters. We were allowed to add a third overage player to the roster, but only 2 over age players can play in a game at a time. We have AP’d a couple U15 players, but their team comes first & there is a limit to the number of games they can play. We have had to cancel 2 games, during the season due to lack of numbers.

The Players, Parents and Coaching staff made the season a success even with a 0-15 finish to the season, because we love the game and believe our all levels of hockey should have the opportunity to play in our community.