We’re excited to begin another season filled with opportunities for our players to grow, try their best, learn new skills, make new friends, and carry lessons that go well beyond the rink.
Over the summer, our volunteers worked hard to listen to your feedback and improve the SMH Tryout Process 2025-2026 . The updated approach is designed to ensure fairness, equity, and transparency. We are really proud of what our committee developed.
As an association, we are committed to supporting our players in every way possible. That means not only developing hockey skills but also giving players and coaches the tools to handle mental health challenges and create a positive, inclusive team environment. We know that competitive tryouts, high-performance teams, and the broader demands of youth sports can bring added pressures, and we take seriously our role in helping young athletes manage these challenges. You will see this reflected in our updated Tryout Process.
As we get ready to hit the ice for another exciting season of hockey, we would like to remind everyone that there will be a zero-tolerance policy for any abuse directed at referees this season – at our home rink or away. This includes abuse from players, parents and coaches. It is hard to retain referees. One of the key reasons for this is the negative treatment that officials sometimes receive from spectators and even volunteers.
It’s important to remember that our referees are not highly paid professionals — they are members of our community who generously give their time to make the game possible. They have families, jobs and other commitments and like all of us, they’re human. It is our responsibility as an association to create a positive, respectful environment so that everyone — players, coaches, referees, and families — can enjoy the game.
Furthermore, there is a zero-tolerance policy for any bullying or harassment towards our players, coaches or volunteers. This includes on the ice, in the dressing rooms and on social media. As we embark on this season, please take a moment to review our policies found on our SMHA Bylaws & Policies Page.
Remember:
- These are kids.
- This is a game.
- Referees are human. Coaches are human. Volunteers are giving their time.
- This is not the NHL.
- Respect the game and have fun!
Together, we’re building a culture where every player feels safe, supported, and empowered — both on and off the ice.
SMHA Board of Directors
GrayJay Sports
