The
landscape of hockey is constantly evolving. Programming opportunities need to
stay current to provide the best options available to players of all levels to
ensure the best experience possible.
In evaluating
registration trends, population and demographic shifts, ice capacity and
competitive history, this brings along changes that will best suit the needs of
players moving forward.
With
that, the Ontario Minor Hockey Association is excited to announce the introduction
of the North Shore Whitecaps for the 2024-25 regular season.
North
Shore combines the AAA programs of the Oshawa Generals and Clarington Toros and
will play in the East Conference of the OMHA’s AAA League. All other current levels of Representative and Recreational programming
within these two organizations will remain unchanged.
The
Whitecaps are the next step in the OMHA’s continued review of AAA programming,
following the recent creation of the Credit River Capitals zone and the
Hamilton Steel pilot project. AAA Zone restructuring has been one of the focuses
of the AAA Committee with the dual goal of ensuring meaningful competition and
providing the appropriate level of play for players.
By
combining resources and opportunities, the Whitecaps will be able to field more
competitive teams from a larger pool of players.
Clarington:
“The Clarington Zone Hockey Association has been working
collaboratively with Oshawa Minor Hockey Association to develop an exciting new
zone for next season. It is our hope that the North Shore Whitecaps are able to
rejuvenate some excitement into our community by providing a more competitive
product on the ice. We are looking forward to the inaugural season and wish all
of our players the best of luck moving forward.”
Oshawa:
“Oshawa Minor Hockey is looking forward to the
establishment of the North Shore Whitecaps as a prominent force in AAA hockey
next season. We have been working diligently alongside Clarington (CZHA) to
create a dynamic AAA Zone that will provide new and exciting opportunities for
players. Wishing everyone involved the best of luck in the upcoming inaugural
season and beyond!”
“The
creation of North Shore Whitecaps is the result of months of work and
cooperation between Clarington Zone, Oshawa Minor Hockey and the AAA Committee,”
said OMHA President Craig Lane. “The players in this area will benefit from the
strong programming and resources the new Zone can provide. Thank you to all
involved and we are excited to see the Whitecaps on the ice next season.”
For families
that are impacted by this news and have additional questions, please contact
your local minor hockey associations who will be working with our Regional
Directors during this transition.