Successful season for local minor hockey clubs
By Melissa Piche Times Contributor
The Strathmore Minor Hockey Association (SMHA) has experienced a season of mixed outcomes with several squads performing admirably, while others faced challenges due to early-season tier placements.
Accurately assigning teams to appropriate tiers at the season’s outset remains a complex task, but overall, most teams have remained competitive in their matchups.
Player registration numbers have remained steady compared to previous years, rebounding from a decline during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Obviously we had a dip there with COVID and (we’re) starting to come back,” said SMHA President Brett Thurston.
Throughout the season several teams have achieved success in external tournaments, bringing home gold medals and showcasing the organization’s competitive spirit. Parental involvement has been commendable with most parents eager to contribute through various volunteer roles, though some teams occasionally face challenges in securing sufficient support.
The associations coaching development committee offers resources and mentorship to new coaches alleviating the intimidation often associated with coaching responsibilities.
The Wheatland Wranglers female hockey program, a joint venture between SMHA and other nearby associations, is now in its second year and has seen participation double to 188 girls, reflecting a growing interest in female hockey development.
March is looking to be a busy month for both the SMHA and the Wrangler programs as the U18 Wranglers are hosting provincials March 20-23, and the U11 AA are hosting provincials March 27-30.
“Again, a couple events that take a lot of manpower and sponsorships,” said Thurston. “It’s a good opportunity for our organization to showcase some players and volunteers and all that good stuff.”
Meanwhile, the Gleichen and District Minor Hockey Association, also known as Gleichen Pond Hockey (GPH) are celebrating successful seasons marked by increased youth participation and community engagement.
This year GPH registered 110 players ranging from ages 5-17 across various divisions, including the Learn to Play program for the youngest enthusiasts. The association boasts a dedicated team of 25 coaches.
“Last year we had an exceptionally high registration of 122 players, but typically we see between 80 to 90 participants,” said GPH president Shelah Downey. “Post-COVID, there’s been a noticeable uptick, which we attribute to the affordability and inclusivity of our program.”
Emphasizing commitment, self-discipline, and sportsmanship, GPH aims to instill values that benefit participants throughout their lives. The association prioritizes effort, recreation, and fair play focusing on building players’ physical and emotional self-confidence within a cooperative team environment.
Meanwhile, the East Wheatland Athletic Association (EWAA), which consists of players from the surrounding areas of Gleichen, Hussar, Rockyford and Standard, has been a beacon of community spirit and youth development since its inception in 2014.
Established to provide local competitive athletic opportunities for children and youth, the EWAA partners with local Agricultural Societies to offer sports programs to surrounding small-town communities.
“It was in conjunction around the same time they were closing all our local schools and then they built Wheatland Crossing,” said coaching coordinator Jason Gauthier.
He explained that they wanted to go the same route and have all the kids who go to school together play together instead of being spread all over.
In 2024 the association officially adopted the name East Wheatland Athletic Association, reflecting its commitment to uniting various communities under one banner. This collaborative effort has not only fostered a sense of unity, but also ensured that local arenas remain vibrant hubs of activity, with residents actively participating in and supporting youth hockey.
This season saw 80 young athletes registered, ranging from U7 to U15 divisions, with plans to expand to the U18 division next year.
The EWAA’s success is deeply rooted in the dedication of its 11-member board comprised of individuals from diverse communities and backgrounds. Their collective efforts, along with the unwavering support of coaches, managers, parents, and volunteers have been instrumental in the association achievements.
The association is excited to be hosting their first awards and banquet night on April 4 at the Standard Community Hall.
“This will be our first ever awards night and banquet as kind of a wind up thing,” said Gauthier. “Also, a thank you to all of our coaches and managers and parents and all of our volunteers.”
As the season progresses into playoffs, the EWAA remains optimistic. While winning banners is a cherished goal, the association places a higher value on the holistic development of its young athletes. By emphasizing effort, recreation, and fair play, the EWAA ensures that participants not only hone their hockey skills, but also develop life skills that will benefit them and society in the long run.