Hockey Alberta has said it plans to introduce significant updates to player eligibility, registration, and mobility rules, providing more flexibility and choice to families starting with the 2025-2026 season.
For the first time in more than 25 years, first-time hockey players will no longer be bound by residency-based limitations, allowing them to choose the Minor Hockey Association (MHA) that best suits their needs. The changes are aimed at adapting to the changing sports landscape, where MHAs face increasing competition to recruit and retain players.
What is changing?
- First time registration: New hockey registrants will be free to join any MHA, irrespective of their address.
- Exchanges between MHAs.: Players will still need written permission to transfer between MHAs, except in certain circumstances, such as an MHA lacking age-appropriate teams.
- AA and AAA recruiting: Recruiting zones and draw zones for elite levels (AA and AAA) will remain, but players’ eligibility will now depend on their last registered MHA rather than residency.
Hockey Alberta says the updates will simplify the administrative process for MHAs and prioritize the player experience by focusing on factors such as coaching, level of play, and programming over residential rules.
Impacts on communities
According to Hockey Alberta, smaller MHAs can find new opportunities to attract players by promoting benefits such as lower fees, better ice hours, or a more consistent schedule. Meanwhile, major organizations like Hockey Edmonton and Hockey Calgary will still manage their internal boundaries and membership policies.
Next steps for MHAs
The proposed changes are open for comment until January 31, 2025, giving MHAs time to assess the impact and adjust their policies before the 2025-2026 season.
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