Below is GMHA's Response to Open Borders:
LEAD THE WAY. PLAY THE GRYPHON WAY.
The Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF), the governing body for all sanctioned ice hockey in Ontario, has confirmed that, starting next season, borders will be fully open across the province for the U10 age group and above, at all levels including House League, Advanced League, BB, A, AA, and AAA.
What does this mean?
And what does it mean for the Guelph Minor Hockey Association (GMHA) and its players and families?
Please continue reading for further details.
OHF Announcement on Open Borders
On December 17th, 2024, the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) introduced major changes to the regulations that govern player movement, which will impact all minor hockey associations in Ontario.
- Beginning next season, players aged U10 and older will be able to join any team in Ontario without the need for a release.
- Guelph players will be able to play for any team, while players from outside Guelph will be able join teams in Guelph, all without restrictions.
- This represents the most significant shift in minor hockey in the past 30 years, presenting both challenges and opportunities.
OHF Announcement: https://ohf.on.ca/player-movement/
OHF FAQ Page: https://ohf.on.ca/player-movement-faqs/
GMHA’s Reaction to Open Borders
The shift to Open Borders in minor hockey is a significant change that will bring both challenges and opportunities.
For GMHA, the challenge will be to ensure that our programs, personnel, and resources are augmented and improved in a way that retains a focus on our local players while also attracting complimentary talent from other areas. We are hard at work on the discussions, decisions, and actions that go along with establishing objectives and goals for our different programs within this new reality.
Open Borders also provides GMHA with the opportunity to grow, innovate, and raise the level of play, while at the same time enhancing the reputation of our programs. We will be working to expand our talent pool and to continually improve our player and coach development and competitive success.
As the policy continues to unfold, the new reality of Open Borders will continue to shape the future of minor hockey, creating opportunities for players, coaches, and communities alike. Embracing this change will not only improve our competitive standing but also provide an environment where players can thrive and achieve their full potential.
Guelph Minor Hockey Association’s Board of Directors, Executive, and Staff are fully committed to adapting with a proactive and strategic approach. Equipped with the right resources, a clear vision, and unwavering dedication, we are prepared to navigate these changes effectively. Most importantly, our core values will continue to guide us and shape our path forward. Aligning with our strategic plan, we will work towards creating a positive environment where all of our players can thrive not only on the ice but also in the community.
GMHA is Guelph’s Home for Hockey
GMHA will continue its commitment to provide hockey opportunities for Guelph players right here in Guelph. We will be working hard to encourage our local players to stay, and to create a developmental and competitive environment that makes GMHA the top choice for Guelph players.
At the same time, we will pursue this opportunity to complement and enhance our teams with top talent from other regions.
Our goal is the retention, attraction, and development of top hockey talent at all ages and levels. For players and families, this means a commitment to creating the best environment to grow, compete, and thrive. All while staying close to home.
We are embracing this new reality with boldness and determination. For current Guelph players, GMHA offers the ideal environment for those looking for top-tier coaching, advanced development, sought-after resources, and clear pathways to achievement.
- GMHA offers the best hometown hockey experience, allowing players to compete alongside friends and classmates and support other GMHA teams.
- Development opportunities are focused on providing players with the opportunity to strive and reach the next level, right here at home.
- Structured development programs designed for each age group and level of hockey offer the support that players need at each age group and level.
- GMHA programs and teams provide fun and competitive hockey from the age of 3 years old (skating school) all the way to U21!
- Advance League programming offers player development and competitive hockey outside of the representative stream, all within a team environment and in a competitive atmosphere that acts as a stepping stone into Rep hockey.
- A Winning Tradition: With three OMHA championships last season and numerous OHL draft picks, we know what it takes to succeed.
GMHA as a Destination for Prospective Players
GMHA offers the ideal environment for those looking for experienced coaching, top-tier player development, sought-after resources, clear pathways to achievement, and a program built on development, excellence, and community.
- Experienced Coaching and Player Development: GMHA boasts a team of seasoned coaches with a track record of elevating player skills and enhancing team performance.
- Comprehensive Player Growth Programs: Our all-encompassing development initiatives include on-ice training, off-ice strength conditioning, skill-building sessions, and specialized resources for advanced progress.
- Exclusive Resources for GMHA Players: Through our collaboration with the University of Guelph, players gain access to a wide array of resources, from mental conditioning techniques to personalized dryland training.
- A Thriving Hockey Community: A hockey family that emphasizes collaboration, character, and striving for competitive excellence, all while supporting each player's personal and athletic growth.
If you are a player looking to advance your hockey career, GMHA is where passion meets performance.
GMHA’s Strategy for Success in an Open Borders Era
Retain. Attract. Develop.
Achieving success in hockey requires more than just basic skills; it demands access to world-class coaching, cutting-edge player development, and unparalleled resources. GMHA is prepared to thrive in the dynamic environment of Open Borders, offering a structure and platform to bring players to their full potential.
At GMHA, we are dedicated to giving every player the tools they need to grow, excel, and succeed in their hockey journey. We are investing in tools, resources, and strategies to ensure GMHA is the first choice for players and families. Below are just a few of the innovative strategies we are rolling out to attract, develop, and retain our players:
Top-Tier Coaching:
- GMHA knows that great coaches attract and develop great players.
- Our full-time Director of Hockey Operations supports our coaching staff throughout GMHA programs and ensures access to coaching resources, support, and guidance.
- The brand new role of a Goalie Development Director will be focused on working with all of our goalies to create personalized and specialized training plans that incorporate skills instruction, game support, and video review.
- GMHA is committed to investing additional resources to secure elite coaching talent.
More Ice Time:
The new double-rink facility in Guelph’s south end will provide:
- Expanded player and goalie development opportunities.
- Increased ice availability for practices and games.
Comprehensive Off-Ice Development:
Player success goes beyond the rink. GMHA collaborates with the University of Guelph Gryphons Performance Academy and other partners to offer:
- Strength, conditioning, and performance training.
- Mental and physical support for players throughout the season.
- Access to councillors, sports management, etc.
Ongoing Education and Support for Coaches:
GMHA supports its bench staff with:
- Director of Hockey Operations and a talented development staff.
- Regular coaching webinars, meetings and check-in’s.
- Practical solutions for challenges developed throughout the season.
Retention and Strategic Recruitment:
GMHA is working to ensure that we:
- Encourage local players to stay and thrive here at home.
- Strategically add top-tier talent from across Ontario to strengthen teams where needed.
- Remain dedicated to building teams with a strong local core as we continue to grow our organization.
Year-Round Development Opportunities:
GMHA is actively pursuing year-round operations.
- Spring/Summer development options, providing players with continuous growth opportunities right here in Guelph.
- Holiday and school break development opportunities for all levels of hockey.
GMHA is excited to lead the way in delivering unparalleled coaching, resources, and player development – ensuring every player has the tools to succeed on and off the ice.
Moving Forward: Next Steps for GMHA 2025-2026
For more information please contact us at [email protected].
If you are an outstanding coach and what we have outlined resonates with you, please reach out to us at [email protected], our Director of Hockey Operations.
Keep an eye out for upcoming webinars and updates where we'll dive deeper into our vision and program offerings.
As Open Borders reshape the hockey landscape, GMHA is committed to leading with innovation, community and a relentless focus on player development. We are thrilled about the possibilities this new policy presents and remain fully committed to maintaining the Guelph Minor Hockey Association’s leadership in minor sports in the Guelph area.