Provincial authority proposing removal of minor hockey association boundaries

Hockey Alberta is trying to keep more youth players in Hockey Canada-sanctioned leagues by getting rid of association boundaries..

In a memo shared Monday, the provincial body that governs the sport is proposing removing residency-based registration – meaning a new player can register for any association of their choosing regardless of where they live.

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In part, the memo says Hockey Alberta regulations "need to provide more choice and flexibility to the customer and enable the mha’s to provide positive opportunities and experiences for players."

At least one Edmonton-area minor hockey association (MHA) wants to know what the provincial authority's end goal is in proposing the changes.

"I want to reserve judgment and hear the rationale for the decision, but I think it's going to add a level of complexity for first-time players," Natalie Williams, the general manager of the Strathcona County's Strathcona Minor Hockey Association, told CTV News Edmonton on Wednesday.

Hockey Alberta will clarify the proposed changes at an information session with associations next week.

It could be the first time some associations hear from Hockey Alberta about the moves which could significantly change how they operate.

The changes could be potential trouble for smaller associations.

The Strathcona Minor Hockey Association, for example, has more than 1,000 players registered this year.

Williams believes these changes will not affect it but says they could be disastrous for others.

"This change with no boundaries may impact smaller minor hockey associations significantly if (players) have a choice, and that's a good and a bad thing," she said. "If you want to play in your community, there may not be enough players to field a team if there's choice out there."

In the memo, Hockey Alberta says if it and member associations continue to apply the same regulations, it will lead to more players and parents choosing those other options.

With files from CTV News Edmonton's Evan Kenny