As the end of the local ice hockey season draws near, minor hockey players can find solace in the knowledge that its warm-weather equivalent will be starting soon on home “ice” to fill the void.
Players can switch their hockey skates for sneakers for a warmer hockey experience in the Cavan-Monaghan Community Centre this spring.
Ball Hockey is an exciting and affordable way to experience Canada’s game. This local league was founded by Guye Vondette in 2017, when it began with four teams. Before the 2020 season was cancelled, the league had registrations to fill 24 teams, despite competition from a new league from the GTA which used the Peterborough Minor Ball Hockey name. The original league can be identified by the OBHA letters at the end of its name.
Registration is now open for the club which is a certified, insured league operating through the Ontario Ball Hockey Association. Five divisions from squirt to pee wee give local youngsters ages four to fourteen a chance to play. All the action occurs in one hour slots on weeknights from 6 to 9 pm, leaving weekends free for family time.
The league is fully-insured and certified by the Ontario Ball Hockey Association, following its rules and regulations. Players require CSA approved hockey helmets with full facial protection and approved hockey gloves, soccer-style shin guards, and hockey stick. Soft elbow pads, soft knee pads and athletic supporter are also recommended. Games consist of two, sixteen minute periods with six players on the floor and all games are controlled by certified referees.
Games are supervised by two certified referees, one of whom is usually Vondette. The league encourages fair play, respect and sportsmanship, ensuring all players participate fully in the action, regardless of skill level.
The season begins on April 4th and ends on June 30th, but each division will select a team to participate in the annual provincial competition this year. The Millbrook league is hosting the Tyke and Novice provincial competitions this year which are scheduled for July 8 to 10.
In 2019, Vondette’s dedication to the sport was recognized provincially, when he was awarded the Ontario Ball Hockey Association Executive of the year. The provincial associated noted that the Peterborough club is the fastest growing and best organized of the 47 clubs in the league due to the dedication of this committed volunteer. That year the City of Peterborough also recognized his efforts in a civic award called “Community Betterment Award” for his contributions to the community in this local youth sporting league.
The league is still looking for team sponsors, coaches and assistants. For more information about this summer recreational opportunity or to register, visit the website at www.peterboroughballhockey.com or contact Guye Vondette by email at pmbhlpresident@gmail.com. KG
