Dear Oro and Orillia Minor Hockey Members,
As many of you are aware, the Oro and Orillia Minor Hockey
Associations have been collaborating closely through the Rep Reorganization
Committee for the past two years. During this time, the Committee has worked to
navigate the ever-evolving landscape of minor hockey in Ontario. A key change
that has significantly impacted our planning came in December, when the Ontario
Hockey Federation (OHF) announced the removal of residency regulations for U10
and older age groups, affecting all levels of play.
Each time new information was released that could affect our
players and our associations, the Committee carefully assessed its potential
impact. With this most recent decision by the OHF, many hockey centres across
Ontario are reevaluating their plans and preparing for the effects these
changes will have on minor hockey programs. Oro and Orillia Minor Hockey
Associations are no exception. The Committee continues to support a Rep
Reorganization.
Local Protection for Our Players
In response to this change, both associations have decided
to implement local protection measures to ensure that our players continue to
have the opportunity to play hockey in our communities. This will be achieved
through the introduction of residency rules, which we believe will protect
local hockey and ensure its sustainability. These will look similar to the
current NRP numbers but will start at U10 instead of the U12 as is currently in
place. This is also in line with many of our neighbouring centres who have also
indicated they are implementing similar.
Freezing of Team Numbers
The OHF has also announced that team numbers will be frozen
for the upcoming season, meaning only the teams currently in place will be
allowed to operate next year, with some exceptions for special requests that
require justification and approval. Since our Rep Reorganization was submitted
prior to this announcement, the requested teams for the new Association will be
approved.
We have requested the following teams for the 2025-2026
season:
AA and A teams at each age group from U10 to U18.
B(B) teams at every second age group (U11, U13, U15, U18).
Currently, Orillia has 12 Rep teams and Oro has 5, totaling
17 Rep teams. We are requesting a total of 20 teams for the next season and
will run between 17-20 teams depending on our registration numbers and ice
availability.
Ice Availability
As many of you know, our region is currently facing a
shortage of ice time due to the closure of the Brian Orser Arena for
renovations. While this presents a challenge, the Committee has reviewed ice
requirements thoroughly and will make every effort to secure additional ice
from both local and neighbouring facilities.
Startup Costs
To ensure a smooth transition, both Oro and Orillia Minor
Hockey will contribute an interest-free loan of $20,000 each to the new
organization. This loan will help cover the operational costs for the first
year, allowing the new association to run day-to-day activities before member
fees are collected. Additional costs will include the legal setup of a new
corporation, ordering jerseys and equipment, hiring a new paid Administrator
and Ice Scheduler, and potentially securing office space.
Governance Structure
Initially, the new Board will consist of three current Oro
Board members and three current Orillia Board members. They will lead the new
organization through its first season. These leadership roles will be critical
and demanding. At the first AGM, the Board will expand to 12 members (6 Oro and
6 Orillia), and the positions will rotate to ensure continuity from year to
year.
An Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held, and all
members of the new organization will have the right to attend and vote on key
decisions.
Why This Reorganization Makes Sense
The Committee is confident that this reorganization will:
Create more competitive teams and provide our players with
local opportunities to compete at the AA and A levels.
Improve coach selection by offering more opportunities for
experienced coaches at various levels.
Help us adapt to a changing landscape: The OHF and OMHA have
seen numerous mergers and reorganizations in recent years. This shift is
altering the competitive environment, and we believe this reorganization
positions us to stay ahead of potential challenges. Reorganizations are being
encouraged and with the announcement today from the OMHA on the introduction of
Representative Zone hockey (https://www.omha.net/news_article/show/1327838),
the Committee believes that we are either to take a proactive approach in
shaping what our programs look like or we wait to be told who we reorganize
with.
Our goal is not to erase local identities, but to ensure
that our hockey community evolves with the times. We want our local players to
continue thriving in an environment that respects our traditions while offering
new opportunities for growth.
Our Commitment to You
Throughout this process, we have made every effort to
provide you with clear and accurate information (in an ever changing hockey
world). We take our responsibility seriously and are committed to ensuring the
best possible outcome for all members. We understand that change can be
difficult, but we believe this reorganization will create a stronger and more
sustainable future for minor hockey in our community.
Ultimately, the decision is in your hands. We hope that,
regardless of the outcome of the votes, the membership will feel that the
process has been transparent and that the decision reflects the best interests
of all involved.
Thank you for your ongoing support and involvement.
Sincerely,
The Oro Orillia Rep Reorganization Committee