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 for the Elgin Middlesex Canucks (EMC) and its players and families?
This groundbreaking decision means that any player aged U10 and above can now choose to play for any team in Ontario, regardless of where they live. This marks Ontario's most significant shift in minor hockey regulations in over three decades.
The core reason behind this move is to enhance player and parent choice. It allows families to decide where to invest their time, money, and energy. This change aligns Alliance Hockey and the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) with other minor sports across the country, as well as with the Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA), the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL), and the Ontario Women’s Hockey Association (OWHA), all of which already permit player movement without restrictions.
OHF Announcement: OHF Player Movement
OHF FAQ Page: OHF Player Movement FAQs
As the future of minor hockey in Ontario is set to evolve, the Elgin Middlesex Canucks are ready to embrace the change. Open borders provide challenges but also exciting opportunities! We are committed to adapting to the change with a proactive approach to ensure that EMC is the top choice for players and coaches. We are actively engaged in discussions necessary to set and achieve our goal of providing the best AAA experience to our local players and new talent from other areas within this new framework. Our primary focus will be to enhance our development program and provide a safe and competitive environment for players to realize their full potential on and off the ice. With the right resources, coaches, bench staff and dedicated volunteers, the Elgin Middlesex Canucks are prepared to navigate these changes ahead.
The Elgin Middlesex Canucks are fully committed to adapting with a proactive and strategic approach. 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, aligning with our strategic plan to create a positive environment where all players can excel both on the ice and within the community.
EMC: Elgin Middlesex's Home for Hockey
The Elgin Middlesex Canucks remain dedicated to providing exceptional hockey opportunities for all players. We're committed to encouraging our talented athletes to stay with us, fostering a developmental and competitive environment that makes EMC the premier choice for Elgin Middlesex players. Simultaneously, we will seize this chance to enhance our teams with top talent from other areas to improve our competitive success within the Alliance season and at tournaments around North America.
“The Elgin Middlesex Canuck hockey program is one of the elite organizations within hockey in Ontario and a worthy destination for players looking to excel in their hockey career.” Jason Bukala - Pro Hockey Group founder, former NHL Scouting Director and Sportsnet contributor.
For current Elgin Middlesex players and those new players interested in wearing the Black and Orange, EMC offers a program for those seeking top-tier coaching, elite development programs, and mentoring advice that outlines pathways to success beyond minor hockey. We also offer:
Community Spirit: EMC provides the ultimate hometown hockey experience, allowing players to compete alongside friends and classmates and support other EMC teams.
Development Focus: Our development opportunities ensure players can reach the next level, right here at home through extended on and off ice programs.
Coaching: Elgin Middlesex prides itself on top-level coaching with the benefit of a coaching mentorship program headed by former NHL player and Stanley Cup Winner Jason Williams.
Structured Programs: Tailored development programs for each age group and level of hockey offer the support players need to excel.
Mentorship programs: We pair our most experienced Canucks with our newest to help them understand what it means to be a Canuck and the expectations of AAA hockey.
Results: EMC is consistently ranked amongst the Top 10 organizations in Ontario in terms of winning percentage.
Preferred Practice and Game times
Facilities: The Komoka Wellness Centre is one of the elite hockey facilities in the area, hosting various Alliance events throughout the year.
COME AND SEE WHAT THE BLACK AND ORANGE HAVE TO OFFER YOU, BE A CANUCK!
EMC is accepting coaching applications, APPLY HERE
