At the recent Tofield Minor Hockey AGM meeting, it was voted in favour to have ALL Tofield Minor Hockey players join the Strathcona Minor Hockey Association for a year of partnership. This decision was voted on without warning or giving many details.

This petition is to call on the Tofield Minor Hockey Association to hold a Special General Membership Meeting (as per section 7.2 of the Tofield Minor Hockey Bylaws). This meeting would give parents an opportunity for open discussion and informed decision making that is best for their families and their community. 

If a minimum of 45 petitioners are in support and sign, members would have the opportunity to open discussion about this topic and potentially revote on this decision and potentially keep U11-U18 players in Tofield for the upcoming year. 

(Please note that all legal guardians of the registered child can vote as a separate petitioner. You do not have to have a child registered in U11-U18 to sign. Also, please note that children who play U11-U18 hockey in Tofield ARE welcome to sign this petition as well). 

This petition is to advocate for the retention of U11-U18 hockey players within Tofield Minor Hockey rather than having them to join Strathcona Minor Hockey. This petition highlights the many benefits and reasons why it is in the best interest of the players and their families to stay rooted in their local hockey community of Tofield. 

1. Community Support and Connection: Small-town hockey associations foster a strong sense of community among players, families, and supporters. By staying within Tofield Minor Hockey, players can continue to build lasting relationships and connections with teammates, coaches, and fellow families. This sense of belonging contributes significantly to the players' overall well-being and enjoyment of the sport.

2. Development Opportunities: Contrary to popular belief, small-town hockey associations offer ample development opportunities for young players. Tofield can prioritize player development by providing quality coaching, personalized attention, and ample ice time for practice and games. Players benefit from individualized attention and the opportunity to develop their skills in a supportive environment.

3. Family Convenience and Affordability: Joining a larger city organization often entails significant logistical challenges and financial burdens for families. Staying within the small-town association allows players to practice and compete closer to home, reducing travel time and expenses. Additionally, local associations typically offer more affordable registration fees and fundraising opportunities, making hockey more accessible to families of all backgrounds.

4. Quality of Competition: Despite being smaller in size, small-town hockey associations often compete at a high level against larger city organizations. Players have the opportunity to face a variety of opponents, which enhances their skills and competitiveness. Furthermore, local rivalries and traditions add an extra layer of excitement to games and tournaments.

5. Character Development: Small-town hockey associations emphasize the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and discipline. Players learn valuable life skills both on and off the ice, including resilience, leadership, and perseverance. These lessons transcend hockey and have a positive impact on players' personal and academic lives.

6. Preservation of Local Hockey Culture: Supporting small-town hockey associations like Tofield ensures the preservation of local hockey culture and traditions. Associations often serve as pillars of the community, bringing people together and instilling a sense of pride in representing their town or region on the ice.

In conclusion, we urge stakeholders to prioritize the retention of U11-U18 hockey players within the Tofield Minor Hockey Association. By doing so, we can ensure the continued growth and success of grassroots hockey while providing young players with a nurturing environment in which to thrive both athletically and personally.