The Cowichan Valley Minor Hockey Association is off to a great start for the 2014/15 season. The newly elected executive committee is a good blend of new and experienced members.
Our first executive committee meeting in June proved very productive, and it appears we will be off to a running start for the upcoming season, with our divisional coordinators preparing and presenting many good ideas for improvement. We established committees in key areas, who will bring their recommendations for discussion or approval to our next meeting in July. This will keep us on track for our startup in August/September. All the Executive Committee members will be working on updating our policy manual, so that all members have a clear, up-to-date explanation of our rules, policies, and procedures. When the manual is complete it will be available on our website.
As an association, one of our biggest challenges is the lack of goaltenders in some divisions. We are working on a comprehensive program to encourage more goalie development, starting in our initiation/novice program, where many players start.
In the initiation/novice program, every effort is being made to minimize initial costs and increase program flexibility. We plan to have a dual registration, one in September and another in January, to allow for players who would otherwise not have a chance to play, or need to develop some skating skills.
We hope to build an inventory of good used equipment for our players just starting out. If you have any items to donate, contact Chay Foss at 250-701-3841 or aimeechay@shaw.ca to arrange pickup.
We are still accepting registration for players, and coach applications at all levels; they can be filled out online at our website.
We really hope to improve our exposure and profile in the Cowichan Valley, by having teams submit their team's accomplishments in the paper.
A major announcement for the Island district is that three-time Olympic gold medallist Meghan Agosta will be holding clinics this summer on Aug. 11-12. The full information will be available at viaha.org
Please watch the Citizen for regular CVMHA news. Visit cowichanvalleymha.com or email cvmha@shaw.ca for more information.
Christine Steeves Christine Steeves CVMHA president