Hello GMHA Families,
Thank you again for your patience and support.
Finally, after Friday’s Government announcement, we had the information needed, and spent the weekend planning and prepping in order to see as many athletes as possible return to the ice if they so wish.
As you may know, the Government of Ontario has lifted the province wide lockdown in Guelph and Guelph’s health unit has been placed in the Red “Control” stage of the COVID-19 Response Framework. While the restrictions in place under Red will not allow for our regular programming to resume, we have worked long and hard to deliver a plan to members that will facilitate getting as many kids as we possibly can back to the ice in some fashion.
As such, even if Guelph is placed in a less restrictive stage (orange, yellow etc.) we will not be returning to original programming this season. There simply is not enough time or ice availability left to complete what was promised for everyone.
GMHA is happy to be offering Age Based Skills Clinics for currently registered players in SD, House League, and Rep divisions. This programming is NOT mandatory, rather being offered for those players who desire to return to the rink. Please be aware that we have faced many challenges and obstacles in developing this return to hockey plan. While not perfect, we feel it is the best offering we can provide, and achieves our top priority, which is getting our kids back to the rink.
The details for the Age Based Skills Clinics and an update on how each program will continue are below:
*As per OMHA rules, there will be absolutely no scrimmage play allowed and strict on ice physical distancing must be maintained*
Skating School - Unfortunately at this time GMHA will not be able to resume our Skating School Program. It is with heavy hearts that we have made this decision, however the nature of this program makes it extremely challenging to run and keep the kids safe. You will receive a pro-rated refund for the number of sessions remaining in the form of cheque mailed to your address on file.
SD 1, 2, & 3 - 1 ice time per week. Programming details will be finalized and will be based on interest and ice availability. 10 players on the ice at one time grouped on a first come, first serve basis. Please be advised that players may not be with the same coach or peers from session 2 groupings
House League - 1 ice time per week (enrolment numbers will determine what we are able to offer, as the goal is to get as many kids as possible on the ice). 10 players on the ice at one time, and players will be grouped on a first come, first serve basis according to age groups. Please be advised that players may not be with the same coach or peers from session 2 groupings
Goalies - We are working on the specifics of how the programming will be adjusted for goalies, and it will depend on registration. GMHA’s hope is to be able to offer goalie specific ice times, and execution depends on enrollment numbers. Goalies in U14 and above will be placed within the skater groups.
Rep/ADP - 2 ice times per week (max 10 sessions), 10 players on the ice at one time, and players will be grouped on a first come, first serve basis according to age and skill to the best of our ability. Please be advised that players may not be with the same coach or peers from session 2 groupings.
Goalies - We are working on the specifics of how the programming will be adjusted for goalies, and it will depend on registration numbers. GMHA’s hope is to be able to offer Goalie specific clinics, however the execution of this is dependent on registration numbers.
More Program Details
Cost
The cost per session will be $36 per player, and we are hoping to run 4-5 week programs starting the week of February 22, 2021. **GMHA is aware that we have funds held for programming we were unable to deliver. For players that choose to participate in this new programming GMHA will simply credit your account accordingly. For those who do not wish to participate, information on refunds will be coming shortly.**
Program Space
We expect the clinics to be popular, so enrolling as soon as you can is prudent. If the program has filled up, you will be placed on a waiting list. We will do our best to ensure as many players as possible are participating.
Scheduling
Ice is already limited, we understand not all ice times are considered desirable, however please keep in mind your athlete may be scheduled on a weekday at 6:30am or 4:30pm. With the time and ice restraints, we will do the best we can.
House League and SD sessions will predominantly be on weekends
Rep sessions will be scattered throughout the week.
Registration
An email will be sent out, plus an article posting on the GMHA website when registration goes live.
Registration will go live Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at 8PM and close Thursday February 18th at 9AM
If you are interested in participating please fill out the appropriate form when registration opens. Please note that only players currently registered are eligible for this programming.
What if I do not wish to have my child participate in this program?
Simply, do not sign up. If you have funds on file, we will issue you a refund. Refund details are being sorted out, so please bear with us. We appreciate your patience.
Thank you again for your continued patience and support. Navigating our way back to the ice has not been easy, but we appreciate your trust in the GMHA and we look forward to welcoming your players back to the rink safely.