At the recent Tofield Minor Hockey AGM meeting, it was voted in favour to have ALL Tofield Minor Hockey players join 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 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 potentially have the opportunity to open discussion about this topic and potentially revote on this decision and potentially keep U7 and U9 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 U7 or U9 to sign).

The reasons this petition has been created are as follows:

1. Community and Personal Growth

 • Strong Sense of Community: Playing in a small town minor hockey association fosters a tight-knit community where players and their families build lasting relationships. This environment provides a support network that extends beyond the rink, promoting a sense of belonging and community pride.

 • Personalized Attention: Smaller teams allow for more personalized coaching and mentoring. Players receive individual attention, helping them develop their skills more effectively and addressing their unique needs.

2. Developmental Benefits

 • Balanced Competition: In smaller leagues, the focus is on skill development rather than just winning. Players in U7 and U9 age groups benefit from a balanced approach that emphasizes learning and enjoying the game.

 • More Ice Time: Players often receive more ice time in smaller associations, which is crucial for their development. Increased participation in games and practices accelerates their growth and helps them gain confidence.

3. Convenience and Family Well-Being

 • Reduced Travel: Staying local means less travel time and expense for families. This is especially important for young children who benefit from a stable routine and are less fatigued without long commutes.

 • Work-Life Balance: Reduced travel also helps parents maintain a better work-life balance, ensuring they can support their children’s activities without excessive stress or time commitments.

4. Community Support and Engagement

 • Local Support Systems: Small town hockey associations often have strong local support, including volunteer coaches, sponsors, and community events. This local engagement enriches the players’ experience and provides additional resources and opportunities.

 • Role Models and Mentorship: Older players and community members often serve as role models and mentors to younger players, fostering a sense of aspiration and community spirit.

5. Financial Considerations

 • Cost-Effective: Smaller town associations generally have lower fees and associated costs, making hockey more accessible to all families. This inclusivity ensures that no child is left out due to financial constraints.

 • Local Economic Support: By keeping the players in the small town association, families contribute to the local economy through their participation in local events, purchasing from local businesses, and supporting local services.

6. Emotional and Social Development

 • Stable Social Environment: Young children benefit from growing up in a stable and familiar social environment. Staying in the local association means they remain with their friends and peers, promoting emotional stability and social comfort.

 • Positive Environment: Smaller associations tend to foster a more positive and less pressured environment, which is critical for the mental and emotional well-being of young players. This nurturing atmosphere helps cultivate a lifelong love for the game.

In conclusion, keeping U7 and U9 hockey players in our small town minor hockey association is beneficial for their development, the well-being of their families, and the strength of our community. By supporting this petition, we ensure a holistic and enriching hockey experience that prioritizes the best interests of our children.