Even though summer is still hanging on, Morden Minor Hockey is already gearing up for the upcoming season. Registration is officially open, giving families a chance to get their young players signed up and ready for another year on the ice.
Planning starts early
For Morden Minor Hockey President Tyler Sloan, hockey season preparation is a year-round commitment.
“Some would find it weird, but we’ve actually been up and running since early July, getting ready and prepping and planning for the upcoming season,” said Sloan. “So it’s been on our mind and not as weird as you think.”
Sloan credits a strong network of volunteers for making the organization run smoothly. “I wouldn’t say that it’s just me. I’ve got a great team that I work with, members that are just happy to get involved and help out to create an atmosphere and an opportunity for these kids to take part in a great activity.”
Building memories that last
Sloan, who grew up playing Morden Minor Hockey himself, says the program is about much more than wins and losses. “It’s the friendships that you build. It’s going out for lunch at a restaurant, the time in the pool, and the different opportunities that came from hockey that weren’t hockey. I still talk and laugh with guys I played with years back.”
The life lessons from hockey extend far beyond the rink. Teamwork, perseverance, and collaboration are skills young players carry into adulthood.
Registration details
Registration is completed online through the Hockey Canada Registry, with an in-person session planned for Wednesday, September 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Morden Minor Baseball concession at the Access Event Centre.
“We get everyone to register online, but then we want to meet with people face to face just to go over more of the financials and the different little intricacies of our evaluations,” explained Sloan. “For first-year players, there are documents like a birth certificate that we need to see to make sure everyone is set up for a successful season.”
Season kick-off
Evaluations will take place at the end of September, with practices and games beginning in early October. “We’re excited to get back into the rink and play some hockey for sure,” said Sloan.
How to get involved
Families can find registration information at mordenminorhockey.com or by searching Morden Minor Hockey on the Hockey Canada Registry. Questions about the process can be directed to Sloan at president@mordenminorhockey.com.