Shaping the Future of Minor Hockey in Ontario, News (St. Thomas Minor Hockey)

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Jan 06, 2025 | Diana Wilson | 7642 views
Shaping the Future of Minor Hockey in Ontario
The Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) has announced a significant change for the 2025 season, opening up the borders for all players in the U10 age group and beyond. This new regulation allows players from across Ontario to choose any team, regardless of their residential location, marking the most considerable shift in Ontario's minor hockey landscape in decades.

OHF Announcement 
OHF FAQ Page

What does this mean for the St. Thomas Minor Hockey Association (STMHA) and its players?

For STMHA, this development presents an exciting opportunity to continue providing top-tier hockey programming while adapting to this evolving landscape. Our association is committed to ensuring that every player and family receives the best support as we navigate these changes together.

What Makes St. Thomas Minor Hockey Association the Right Fit?


State-of-the-Art Facilities

  • The Joe Thornton Community Centre: One of the finest hockey facilities in the region, providing an ideal setting for player development and team activities.
  • Dedicated Media Room: Located within "The JOE," STMHA boasts a media room where teams can strategize, review game footage, and refine their gameplay.

A Legacy of Excellence in Player and Coach Development

For over 70 years, STMHA has been at the forefront of hockey development, offering a wide range of programs designed to nurture players and coaches alike. From beginners to seasoned athletes, we provide top-notch training, skill-building opportunities, and mentorship to ensure every individual reaches their full potential.

Player Skill Development

  • STMHA offers a comprehensive approach to skill development, focusing on fundamental skills, technique refinement, and fostering a passion for the game.
  • Players are continually challenged and supported through structured programs that incorporate expertise from leading skill development companies, ensuring diverse and enriching training experiences.

Goalie Training Programs

  • Tailored specifically to netminders, STMHA’s goalie development program provides specialized coaching to meet the unique needs of goalkeepers at all levels, setting them up for success on the ice.

Coach Mentorship

  • At STMHA, we believe great coaches are the key to developing great players. Our mentorship program offers resources, support, and guidance to coaches of all experience levels, helping them sharpen their on-ice strategies and team management skills.

Introduction to Hockey

  • For newcomers to the sport, STMHA offers a fun and supportive Introduction to Hockey program. This is the perfect entry point for young athletes to build foundational skills, learn the basics of the game, and become part of the St. Thomas hockey community.


“St. Thomas Minor Hockey Association has a long history of developing athletes and coaches who not only excel on the ice but also contribute to the growth and vibrancy of our community. We remain dedicated to fostering player development, coaching excellence, and introducing hockey to the next generation of players.” - Joe Doyle, STMHA President


Join our STMHA Family

We're currently accepting coaching applications for the 2025/26 season.

For more information on our programs, registration, or upcoming events, please follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Contact Us
St. Thomas Minor Hockey Association
Phone: (519) 631-3607
Email: [email protected]

 

 
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Sponsors
Yarmouth Mutual Insurance
Since 1881, generations of families from across Elgin County have trusted Yarmouth Mutual Insurance Company for a full range of insurance solutions. When choosing the insurance company that is right for you, consider a mutual insurer. As a mutual insurance company, Yarmouth Mutual Insurance Company is owned by its policyholders; therefore, we act solely to deliver insurance at the lowest possible cost. And unlike our competition, we’re people-centered, not call centered. We’re dedicated to providing our policyholders with competitively priced insurance products and services, customized to suit every insurance need. Our agents and brokers deliver helpful, friendly service, with the familiar faces of people who live, work and play right here in your community. Our Vision: To be a progressive
Mark REID Memorial Fund
Mark participated in minor hockey in St Thomas as a child. His love of the game continued throughout his life. In his memory, a fund has been created, providing annual funding to offset costs to those in need. Those children selected will in turn get an opportunity to participate in minor hockey in St Thomas, and experience the same enjoyment from our great game as Mark did. To apply: speak to Vicki in the STMHA office.
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In keeping with a 40-year heritage, McDonald’s Canada is proud to support minor hockey in communities across the country, by offering young players a unique opportunity to build their sense of teamwork and focus on the joy of playing.
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