Petition Update: Progress, but Still a Loooooong Way to Go

We’re happy to see some movement in the right direction. Thanks to all of you speaking out, it seems HEO has heard us and adjusted their stance on spring tryouts. They just released a bulletin shared by the Seaway Valley Rapids (attached), which appears to be a direct response to the pressure from families like yours. As a result, our kids are now eligible to participate—pending reinstatement. This is a step forward, but there’s still a lot more work to be done.

One major issue remains: the reinstatement fee. According to HEO’s own bylaws, players have the right to try out at the beginning of each season. If spring tryouts mark the start of a new season, then players should automatically be reinstated, no questions asked. On the other hand, if HEO argues that these tryouts aren’t the official start of a new season, then they need to provide another opportunity that is—such as fall tryouts. They can’t have it both ways.

Beyond the fees, there’s still a troubling lack of clarity around HEO’s decision-making. They seem to change the rules on the fly, creating confusion for players and parents alike. For example, they now say spring and summer hockey is allowed—but then refuse to permit spring tryouts for private hockey teams. How can they justify allowing one while banning the other? Are they deliberately blurring the lines, or is this just another case of inconsistent and unclear policies?

And here’s something even more concerning: Did you know that according to HEO’s 2024 year-end financial disclosures, they collected $115,557 on transfers and appeals alone? Meanwhile, their revenue from participant/junior team fees was only $443,345 for the year—proving why they don’t want more open and transparent borders for kids. It is a money maker. 

Despite losing $202,188 last year, HEO increased salaries and benefits to $375,870. Families are struggling with rising costs, and yet HEO continues to prioritize its own financial interests over fairness and transparency in youth hockey.

Our attempts at collaboration continue to be ignored, but with 500 petition signings in less than a week, they can’t ignore families any longer. Eastern Ontario hockey parents want change, and they want it now. Keep speaking up, keep sharing, and let’s keep the pressure on.

Please see attached their most recent bulletin and financial disclosures. 

https://www.hockeyeasternontario.ca/media/mo5pn2yx/2024-04-30-hockey-eastern-ontario-fs.pdf