Print this pageFebruary 2011 Newsletter
SMHA News - Feb 2011
Wow, time sure flies! The playoffs are just around the corner and hockey fever is rampant in the village. It's all good, and we have so much to tell you this month - it's a long newsletter but we hope it's interesting!
Celebrating our Volunteers with the first Annual Rory Bradley Volunteer of the Year Award
In memory of our late SMHA uber volunteer, Rory Bradley, we'll be celebrating all of our volunteers and you get to nominate one as Volunteer of the year. Find out how.
The SMHA Annual General Meeting – its your meeting
The SMHA Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place Sunday April 17th 2011. We heard loud and clear that last year’s meeting was too long and there was not enough communication of key issues ahead of time. This year we want you to set the agenda. Find out how.
You be the Judge - on our move to more non-checking hockey this year
Take this 1 minute survey and tell us what you think of the move to add more non-checking to our programs. It's up to you to tell us what you think. (please)
We're planning ahead to provide an even safer hockey environment
Next season we'll be asking all coaching staff to submit a police check. This follows a recommendation from Hockey Canada and our own desire to do everything we possibly can to protect our young people. The Novice age even decided to start this year (those keeners!) and we're happy they did.
Update on The OverSized Midget Team Issue
We were more than happy to hear that Dodie Malcolm, President of the ODMHA has confirmed that the restriction on Stittsville Midget teams has been lifted and that they may now play in tournaments within the ODMHA boundaries with with a maximum of 17 skaters and two goalies. Craig Goodwin remains suspended but he is appealing the decision. If you haven't heard about this issue, you can find it all on our blog.
Dealing with a Concern
I know we've said this before but it's really important that we follow the SMHA process when we want to escalate a complaint. Please take note.
If you find yourself wanting to bring an issue forward, the first step is to abide by the 24 hour rule- take a step back and don't do anything until emotions cool. Then start with your Coach. If your issue isn't addressed to your satisfaction, then contact your Convenor. If necessary, then escalate to the appropriate SMHA Hockey Director (Development, House, Competitive) or other appropriate Executive. If all of this fails, the last step is the SMHA President. Contact information for those individuals can be found on the SMHA website.
Do not contact anyone at District 4, Lanark-Carleton Minor Hockey League or the Ottawa District Minor Hockey Association until you have completed all of these steps.
Lastly, enjoy the wrap up to the season and best of luck to all! May your season end with laughter.
Your roving reporters
Lynda and Anick