BC Hockey Female Hockey Report Hockey Programming...Hockey Canada, Hockey Alberta, and Hockey Nova...

BC Hockey

Female Hockey Report

November 30, 2018

BC HOCKEY

FEMALE HOCKEY REPORT

December 24, 2018

i

Executive Summary

Introduction / Context

Female hockey has been played for more than 100 years, and has experienced significant growth

in Canada since 1990, the year of the first official Women’s World Championship. Today, it is one

of the fastest growing sports in the world. In June 2018, the BC Hockey Board of Directors directed

that a study be completed on the status of female hockey in British Columbia and that a

recommendation be developed setting out a Female Hockey Development Plan for each district

within BC Hockey.

In undertaking this task, we spoke to minor hockey volunteers throughout BC and the Yukon.

Through these conversations, we gained valuable insights and became aware of the “champions”

who are currently facilitating female hockey in their communities, albeit with limited resources in

some cases.

While at times the thought of improving female hockey within BC and the Yukon may seem like a

daunting task, we believe that we can deliver on that mandate. Certain certain issues (such as

geography) will not be easily solved, but the existing minor hockey structure can be utilized to

assist and lessen many of the challenges.

Through the creation of female hockey associations and female-specific recruitment initiatives we

are confident that we will be able to utilize our resources and our group of champions to grow to

not only deliver but grow female hockey in our communities.

Currently, our growth rate from year-to-year is 5%. Based on female numbers across Canada,

other members are growing at approximately 7%. We view these statistics as a challenge, as we

have never shied away from being leaders among Hockey Canada members.

Approach

This report was created in collaboration and feedback from BC Minor Hockey Associations,

Hockey Canada, Hockey Alberta, and Hockey Nova Scotia. The project was divided into five (5)

phases over a five (5) month period:

1. Methodology and Qualitative Research

2. Analysis and Findings

3. Recommendations

4. Evaluation

5. Data Collection

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1. Methodology

Minor Hockey Associations were identified and contacted by phone with a series of

questions. Hockey Canada, Hockey Alberta and Hockey Nova Scotia were contacted to

discuss the recent changes within female hockey in their respective organizations.

2. Analysis and Findings

All responses from MHAs were reviewed during an in-person meeting of our staff,

including our Female Hockey Programming Coordinator Cindy Secord. An internal SWOT

(Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) Analysis was conducted and, based on

the information obtained in our interviews, the following common themes were identified

as challenges:

• Lack of Local Teams to Play

• Drop off at Pee Wee/Bantam

• Stigmas Against Female Hockey

• Lack of Female-Specific Skill Development Opportunities

• Losing Players to Academies

• Lack of Ice Time Compared to Male Teams

• Lack of Information for Female Directors

• Skill Gap Between Players

• Lack of Competitive Playing Options Locally

• Lack of Senior Women’s Hockey

• Issues with Co-Ed/Female Dressing Rooms

3. Recommendations

Based on our research and analysis, the following recommendations have been

developed:

a. Implement an Organizational Structure for Female Hockey Programming

Create roles responsible for the oversight of female hockey programming within

districts/zones within our geographic subdivision. Working directly with identified

zone leads, these individuals will ensure that all programming guidelines and

deliverables are communicated to, and delivered at, the local level. The Female

Coordinator will work with Hockey Canada at creating consistent programming

outlines for our Female MHAs.

Female Hockey Coordinator

Key Duties

• Organize delivery of Female Hockey Associations model

• Maintain strong communication with BC Hockey Zone Leads

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• Assist in identifying district champions for district lead positions

• Liaise with BC Hockey members on all female programming and ideas

• Assist with the delivery of seminars and meetings on female programming

• Assist with the execution of programming with Zone Leads

• Facilitate training session for Zone Leads

• Liaise with Hockey Canada on all female programming and ideas

• Work with Zone Leads to create annual female hockey goals and

benchmarks

• Reports to the BC Hockey CEO through the Chief Program Officer

Female Zone Lead

Key Duties

• Organize female teams within their zones

• Maintain a strong working relationship with BC Hockey Female Lead

• Maintain good communication with BC Hockey Female Lead

• Liaise with BC Hockey with any female programming and ideas

• Assist with facilitating meetings on female programming in district

• Assist with executing programming within MHAs

• Create annual goals and targets for female hockey in district

• Complete the annual female programming checklist

b. Creation of Female Hockey Associations

Female-focused associations are viewed as necessary to ensure the growth of

female hockey programming. Experience over the past fifteen (15) years has

shown that Female Hockey Associations (FHAs) allow for stronger recruitment

initiatives, coaching education, and playing opportunities for female players. The

formation of FHAs also facilitates increased options for females (especially those

in rural areas) to play with other females, which in turn can stimulate registration,

as parents are more likely to register their daughter for an activity if it involves a

female team.

We plan to implement a model similar to what has been successfully developed in

Hockey Nova Scotia. In areas where there are currently no FHAs (i.e., every

District but the Lower Mainland), “zones” will be formed to create female teams

wherever possible. Players wishing to participate in female hockey will register

through a “central registry” early in the summer.

The Central Registry will help improve the administration of the female game in

British Columbia. By signing up earlier in the year, players allow Zone Leads to

organize and get teams on the ice sooner.

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Any players who plan on playing female hockey in BC in the East Kootenay, North

Central, North East, North West, Okanagan, Vancouver Island, or West Kootenay

Zones for the 2019 – 2020 season must register through the Central Registry by

July 1, 2019.

When players have signed up with their respective Female Hockey Zone, they will

be placed on teams by the Zone Leads. Female teams will partner with MHA’s who

would assign ice and allow the female athletes to dual card to the integrated teams

to ensure the integrated teams have sufficient number to ice teams. The female

athlete’s first priority is the female team, and will be able to play with the integrated

team when their schedule allows for it. Players will pay their registration to their

partner Minor Hockey Association.

Within each district, there are female hockey players in each age division but the

residency-based divisions between associations makes it difficult to form teams.

The Female Lead would work directly with the District associations and MHAs to

combine athletes to create “zone” based teams that are not restricted to traditional

MHA boundaries. This would allow more female teams to form during a

transitionary period until registration is sufficient to support the creation of an FHA

in the zone.

c. Execute Female First Shift Programs

Utilizing Hockey Canada’s existing First Shift programming and framework, we

plan to address two (2) of the most prominent problems within female hockey in

BC – the lack of recruitment events and a shortage of goaltenders.

• The skater recruitment would follow the typical First Shift model – new

players between the ages of six (6) and 10.

• Goalie recruitment would allow existing players between the ages of eight

(8) and 12 to try the position.

o The equipment would stay with the player as long as they played in

net, and would then be returned to the Female Association (and stored

at BC Hockey Regional Centres) to have an inventory of goalie

equipment for future programming.

o In the transitionary phase, older beginner level goaltenders may be

used at younger divisions if necessary.

These programs would grow both the player and goalie infrastructure, allowing

more female teams to form throughout the province.

d. Create Female Multisport Camp Pilot

BC Hockey will take the lead with other Provincial Sport Organizations to create a

one (1) day “Try it Camp” to introduce hockey along with three (3) to four (4) other

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sports. Communication and recruitment materials would be offered from other

participating sports to expose the benefits of sport to as many young females as

possible. This will continue to build the interest in female hockey as well educating

athletes on the importance of multi-sport opportunities.

Once an athlete decides to try hockey on more of a regular basis they would fall in

to the streams of local MHA programming. This would include:

• CanSkate programming

• Alternate Season programming

• Full time programming the year after signing up for the multi-sport camp

e. Pursue Female Event Hosting

Events such as the Esso Cup and Women’s U18 Nationals allow female players

in the host communities to observe exceptional female hockey, and also allow for

the creation of recruitment and skill development events around the tournament.

The competitors as these events are excellent ambassadors of our sport, and we

will work to maximize the benefits of programming in the host community and

surrounding area.

The submission of bids to Hockey Canada to host these events in future seasons

will be encouraged and supported by BC Hockey.

The format of the BC Hockey Female Championships will be reviewed with an eye

to utilizing the event(s) as a recruitment tool. As evidenced when all three (3)

Championships were held in Kamloops during the 2016 World Women’s

Championships, events such as this are well received across the various age

groups and can serve as a great celebration of female hockey. While hosting three

(3) simultaneous Championships may limit the number of communities capable of

hosting an event of this scale, the development of a plan to create such events on

an ongoing basis is required. It is also recommended that the timing of the BC

Hockey Female Championships be adjusted to occur one (1) week later than the

BC Hockey Integrated Championships.

f. Review and Update Female Player Pathway

BC Hockey’s Female Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model was last

modified in the 2006-2007 season with the advent of the Female Midget AAA

Program. The model (page 33) has been updated to reflect current playing options,

particularly at the Midget level (specifically Hockey Canada Sport Schools and the

Junior Women’s Hockey League).

Additionally, it important to show the progression from Pee Wee to Midget in two

(2) different streams – Active For Life (recreational) and Competitive. The third

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stream is High Performance, which focuses on both BC Hockey and Hockey

Canada’s respective Programs of Excellence.

We also wanted to emphasize “Below Pee Wee” programming, as reflected in our

“Pillars” document. Unlike male hockey, female players tend to enter the game at

later stages. It is important to place an emphasis on recruitment initiatives such as

The First Shift, Esso Fun Days, and Learn to Play Programs at the Initiation, Novice

and Atom levels.

4. Evaluation

In order to evaluate the success of the above recommendations, measures have been put

in place for one (1), three (3), five (5), and 10 seasons from now using the “SMART”

method. This is extensively detailed on page 16. In short:

• Female Hockey Associations

o Annual review of “Lead” positions to be conducted

o Survey of participants

o Review District Lead checklists and tasks monthly

• Recruitment Initiatives

o Analyze number of participants and teams year-to-year

o Survey participants at the end of each season/post-event

• Marketing and Branding

o Review social media metrics and website traffic data annually

o Evaluate visible impact of female hockey branding

• Event Hosting

o Review successful and unsuccessful event bids

o Develop rotational plan for BC Hockey Female Championships

5. Data Collection

Registration information from the past several seasons was reviewed to observe key

trends over various age groups and geographic areas. Specifically, we focused on the

number of female participants within each District, as well as the number of female teams

within each District. Where possible, these numbers are based on BC Hockey’s Annual

Reports.

6. Conclusion

Implementing a new organizational structure for female hockey, creating Female Hockey

Associations, pursuing the hosting of female events, and updating the Female Player

Pathway will serve existing players, allowing more females to play together and

empowering our current player and volunteer base.

The five recommendations below are aimed to improve the experience of current female

and recruit females into our sport:

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• Implement an Organizational Structure for Female Hockey Programming

• Creation of Female Hockey Associations

• Execute Female First Shift Programs

• Create Female Multisport Camp Pilot

• Pursue Female Event Hosting

• Review and Update Female Player Pathway

Enacting new recruitment initiatives such as female-focused First Shift programming with

goaltending modules, and multi-sport camps, will allow more females to be introduced to

the sport.

The goal of the female hockey recruitment strategy is to increase our female numbers by

approximately 300 participants or 7% each year. This will help increase participation in all

of our programming from Minor Recreational, FMAAA, and Program of Excellence in the

future.

Table of Contents

Executive Summary ..................................................................................................................... i

Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 2

Methodology .............................................................................................................................. 3

Analysis and Findings ................................................................................................................ 5

Recommendations ....................................................................................................................17

Recommendation #1: Implement a Structure for Female Hockey Programming ....................17

Recommendation #2: Create Female Hockey Associations ...................................................20

Recommendation #3: Execute Female First Shift Programs ..................................................27

Recommendation #4: Create Female Multisport Camp Pilot Program ...................................28

Recommendation #5: Pursue Female Event Hosting .............................................................29

Recommendation #5: Update Female Player Pathway ..........................................................31

Evaluation Process ...................................................................................................................34

References ...............................................................................................................................36

APPENDIX A – FEMALE ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE ............................................37

APPENDIX B – FEMALE HOCKEY ASSOCIATIONS ........................................................41

APPENDIX C – REGISTRATION FIGURES ......................................................................43

APPENDIX D – BRANCH COMPARISON .........................................................................56

2

Introduction In June 2018, the BC Hockey Board of Directors directed that a report be completed on the status

of female hockey in British Columbia and the Yukon, and that recommendations be developed

setting out a Female Hockey Development Plan for each district within BC Hockey.

Throughout this report we examined existing programming and how it can be implemented within

our current structure. Not all existing programming is designed to achieve the goals that we need

to have happen to increase our recruitment numbers, to that extent we examined what Minor

Hockey Associations (MHAs) and Districts need assistance to achieve this recruitment goal.

Overall, MHAs have not had the focus on female hockey that is needed to see the game grow.

Therefore our recommendations outlined in this report will help outline and guide our associations

in both growing the number of female players and increasing the retention rate of current female

players.

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Methodology A qualitative approach was taken in the compilation of this report, and led to our decision to focus

our efforts on dialogue with people in the field. Qualitative research “is used to gain an

understanding of underlying reasons, opinions, and motivations. It provides insights into the

problem or helps to develop ideas or hypotheses for potential quantitative research. Qualitative

research is also used to uncover trends in thought and opinions, and dive deeper into the

problem.” (DeFranzo 2011)

In September 2018, a memo was distributed to all District Presidents and Female Directors

requesting they recommend three (3) contacts for us to speak to regarding female hockey

programming in their area. Of the nine (9) Districts, four (4) responded.

After scheduling the initial round of calls with the recommended contacts, we sought out contacts

in the remaining Districts. In total, we sent 26 requests to Minor Hockey Associations and District

Associations and received 23 responses. These 23 calls were held between October 1, 2018 and

October 25, 2018. We spoke to the following Associations:

District Associations:

• Hockey Yukon

• North West

• Okanagan Mainline

• Pacific Coast (Female Director,

Female Bantam Director)

Minor Hockey Associations:

• 100 Mile House MHA

• Alberni Valley MHA

• Castlegar MHA

• Cranbrook MHA

• Dawson Creek MHA

• Fort St. John MHA

• Fort St. John MHA

• Greater Trail MHA

• Kelowna MHA

• Kimberley MHA

• North East District Female Predators

• Prince George MHA

• Tri Port MHA

• Vancouver Female MHA

• Vanderhoof MHA

• Victoria MHA

• Whitehorse MHA

• Williams Lake MHA

• Windermere Valley MHA

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Calls averaged 20 to 30 minutes in length. A standard set of questions was asked to each

interviewee: • What female hockey infrastructure is currently in place in your Association?

• What support do you get from your board regarding female hockey?

• What is your recruitment plan, specifically for Initiation and Novice aged players?

• What is your retention rate after players reach Atom/Pee Wee?

• What does your Association do for females who are interested in joining after the

Initiation/Novice age?

• Are there any playing opportunities in your area for female players after they graduate

Midget?

• What percentage of players are playing competitive vs. recreational hockey?

• Have players moved outside of your community to pursue competitive hockey

opportunities?

• What skill development opportunities are available to female players in your area?

• What are some key challenges you’ve faced in the female game?

• What are some successes you’ve had in your Association or District?

• If money, time, and geography weren’t issues, what would you do with female hockey in

BC?

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Analysis and Findings Common Themes

Lack of Local Teams to Play (13 responses)

The most common response amongst our calls was a lack of local teams to play. This was a

common theme in every area of BC and the Yukon aside from the Lower Mainland. Even in areas

such as the Okanagan and Vancouver Island, where there have previously been a modest

number of female teams, certain divisions (particularly Bantam and Midget) are struggling.

Drop Off at Pee Wee/Bantam (10 responses)

Based on registration figures, the largest drop-off of players is from Pee Wee to Bantam, and then

Bantam to Midget. A lack of female-only playing opportunities factors into this drop-off, which also

relates to another common issue – dressing room policies. It was often stated that girls lose the

desire to play on integrated teams at this age because they are no longer part of the dressing

room atmosphere, and arenas often don’t have adequate female dressing rooms.

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COMMON THEMES

Survey Responses

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Stigma Against Female Hockey (8 responses)

This response was alarmingly common in every area of the province. In many areas, integrated

hockey is seen as the more competitive option, and therefore it is recommended by parents that

players choose that stream in order to best develop their skills.

Lack of Female-Specific Skill Development Opportunities (7 responses)

Many MHAs noted a lack of female-specific skill development opportunities, specifically clinics

and hockey camps. A few MHAs have set aside skill development ice throughout the season that

is dedicated to females, but the majority would like to see more Branch-led initiatives in their

areas.

Losing Players to Academies (6 responses)

Particularly at the Bantam and Midget levels, a number of community-based teams have folded

due to players leaving for playing opportunities away from home, such as Hockey Canada Sport

Schools.

Lack of Ice Time Compared to Male Teams (6 responses)

A number of female directors noted that female teams receive less ice time than equivalent

integrated teams. If they do receive an equal amount of ice, it is often at undesirable times and/or

locations.

Lack of Information for Female Directors (5 responses)

Many Female Directors noted that they would like more resources available to them via BC

Hockey’s website, especially for those who are unable to attend the Annual Congress. Commonly

requested resources include a directory of Female Directors/contacts, lists of female teams, and

“how to” manuals for recruitment initiatives.

Skill Gap Between Players (5 responses)

In areas where they are able to form female teams, there is often a significant skill gap between

players. Veteran players are often playing alongside new skaters. This can contribute to retention

rates, as more skilled players would prefer to play in a competitive stream (such as integrated)

and newer players quit the sport.

Lack of Competitive Options Locally (5 responses)

This was particularly prevalent in the Kootenays, where the Female Midget AAA team folded prior

to the 2017-2018 season. In Districts such as the North West, East Kootenay, and West Kootenay,

there are a limited number of carded female teams.

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Lack of Senior Women’s Hockey (4 responses)

Areas such as the North East, North Central, and Vancouver Island have limited options for female

players after they graduate from Midget. In Prince George and Fort St. John in particular, there

are no recreational senior female teams or leagues.

Issues with Co-Ed/Female Dressing Rooms (3 responses)

Many arenas (especially older facilities) have a lack of female dressing rooms, meaning female

players often have to get changed in inadequate places such as closets or washrooms. In areas

where females have no other option than playing on integrated teams, Hockey Canada’s Co-Ed

Dressing Room Policy (Hockey Canada n.d.) often leads to a lack of “dressing room atmosphere”

or not feeling like a part of the team often contributes to increased drop-off rates.

Skill Gap Between Teams (3 responses)

Smaller communities that manage to put together female teams often cannot compete with female

teams from larger areas such as the Lower Mainland, Kelowna, and Kamloops. It was often noted

that “C1” teams from other Districts are often equivalent to a “C3” or “C4” team from the Lower

Mainland. This is also reflected at the “A” level, as teams from the Lower Mainland often dominate

at BC Hockey’s provincial Championships.

Additional Calls

We also spoke to Hockey Canada and two (2) other branches: Hockey Alberta and Hockey Nova

Scotia. Both of these branches have recently undergone changes to their female hockey

programming. With Hockey Alberta, we discussed their female re-structure to their Bantam and

Midget programming. With Hockey Nova Scotia, we discussed their move to female hockey

associations and zone-based minor hockey programming.

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District Findings

East Kootenay

Association 2015-2016 Total Female Players

2016-2017 Total Female Players


3 Year Growth %

Canal Flats MHA 0 1 0 0%

Cranbrook MHA 20 28 27 35%

Creston Valley MHA 11 10 13 18%

Elk Valley MHA 28 26 22 -21%

Fernie MHA 16 10 10 -38%

Golden MHA 15 12 13 -13%

Kimberley MHA 16 22 28 75%

Windermere Valley 39 63 45 15%

Total 145 172 158 9%

West Kootenay




3 Year Growth %

Boundary 13 15 14 8%

Castlegar MHA 45 35 19 -58%

Grand Forks MHA 14 16 20 43%

Greater Trail MHA 38 53 60 58%

Kaslo MHA 8 4 6 -25%

Nakusp MHA 12 11 12 0%

Nelson MHA 12 16 19 58%

Total 142 150 150 6% *Based on BC Hockey Annual Reports

In the East Kootenays, all three (3) Female Directors that we spoke with noted a lack of skill

development opportunities for female players. Geography is also an issue, with many female

programs preferring to play in Alberta’s Rocky Mountain Female Hockey League rather than BC-

based programming. A lack of skill development opportunities was also noted in the West Kootenays.

Players face long travel times to play Okanagan-based teams.

Both Cranbrook and Kimberley noted limited ice time for female programming as a prominent issue.

Integrated programming gets more desirable ice times, and “rep” caliber teams demand the majority

of evening ice. Dressing room policies were also brought up as an issue for player retention – in

multiple cases Female Directors mentioned that arenas do not have adequate female dressing rooms,

and local MHA policies have not been followed.

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In Trail, the Female Director noted a “skill gap” – their Pee Wee “rep” team is too good for “rec”

hockey, but not competitive enough against most “rep” caliber teams. There is also a perception issue

– many parents would rather have their girls play integrated hockey, as the female stream is seen as

weaker.

A lack of competitive options for players, particularly at the Bantam and Midget levels, is also an

issue. Since the Female Midget AAA Kootenay Wild program folded two (2) seasons ago, players

have been forced to either play integrated competitive/rec hockey, join an academy program, or move

outside of their home communities to pursue competitive hockey.

After Midget, there are some senior female teams available to players, but these are at a very

recreational level.

North East/Yukon




3 Year Growth %

Chetwynd MHA 40 41 38 -5%

Clearview MHA 38 34 45 18%

Dawson City MHA 22 18 18 -18%

Dawson Creek MHA 61 64 64 5%

Faro MHA 15 12 0 -100%

Fort Nelson MHA 34 39 55 62%

Fort St John MHA 49 64 67 37%

Haines Junction MHA 18 20 22 22%

Hudson's Hope MHA 10 12 11 10%

Peace River District 0 0 42 42%

Taylor MHA 7 13 19 171%

Teslin MHA 5 9 7 40%

Tumbler Ridge MHA 5 10 13 160%

Watson Lake MHA 0 1 2 50%

Whitehorse MHA 48 73 57 19%


Female programming in the North East and Yukon appears to be on a positive trajectory. In the past

three (3) seasons, registration has grown by over 30%. Both Peace River District and Yukon AHA

are adept at utilizing events such as Jamborees to maximize exposure for the female game and retain

players, and both regions have also started female-specific programming.

In the Yukon, the grassroots programming has a strong foundation – the “Girls Hockey Club” has

approximately 40 skaters who come out for a regular weekly ice time. However, there are still not

quite enough females to be able to ice a female team at any division.

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There is a good base of Pee Wee, Bantam, and Midget players, but the competitive options are

somewhat lacking. The Yukon Mustangs U18 team has a range of players between the ages of 12

and 18, and regularly travel for tournaments. At home, they compete against the Whitehorse

Women’s Hockey League and local Pee Wee and Bantam recreational teams. Elite players often

make the choice to move to academies to pursue further competitive opportunities. There is a strong

senior female league that has operated for over 40 seasons and is very welcoming to players of all

levels.

In the North East, the “North East Predators” program has addressed a lack of competitive female

hockey. They have iced teams at the Pee Wee, Bantam, and Midget levels, however, they are

concerned about the small player base – approximately 30-40% of players in the District are playing

“rep” level hockey. Another concern is a lack of places to play – their closest BC-based competition

is four (4) to five (5) hours away in Prince George, and the Alberta-based All-Peace Hockey League

does not always allow them to play.

At the minor hockey level, Fort St. John and Dawson Creek both have a healthy number of females

playing at the Atom and Pee Wee levels, but not enough to ice female teams. The numbers on the

male side often necessitate that females play integrated to round out the rosters.

At the senior female level, there is a lack of organized teams. There is one recreational group in

Dawson Creek, and one competitive team, the North Peace Eagles, based out of Fort St. John.

North Central




3 Year Growth %

100 Mile House MHA 27 69 49 81%

MacKenzie MHA 31 31 36 16%

McBride MHA 3 0 0 -100%

Prince George MHA 122 115 120 -2%

Quesnel MHA 55 58 63 15%

Valemount MHA 16 11 13 -19%

Williams Lake MHA 101 111 120 19%


The District’s larger Associations (100 Mile House, Prince George, Quesnel, and Williams Lake) have

started female programming. There is a notable skill gap both within teams (experienced players

playing with beginners) and within their games (they noted that they cannot compete with female

teams from other areas of the province, particularly the Lower Mainland).

Prince George has grown their female program to the point where they are able to offer female

divisions – thus, female teams only play against female teams. Quesnel has a weekly female ice time

and has looked towards offering Atom/Pee Wee programming.

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Williams Lake makes excellent use of programs such as Esso Fun Days to grow female programming.

They have been able to ice Pee Wee and Bantam “A” teams this season, as well as a couple of

Novice teams.

The South Coast Women’s Hockey League recently accepted a northern-based team, the Northern

Penguins. This team features players from Prince George, 100 Mile House, and Quesnel. On the

recreational side, there is a lack of women’s hockey in Prince George and Williams Lake, but 100

Mile House has a small women’s league.

North West




3 Year Growth %

Burns Lake MHA 18 34 47 161%

Fort St James MHA 14 18 19 36%

Fraser Lake MHA 32 18 26 -19%

Hazelton MHA 20 22 30 50%

Houston MHA 20 14 10 -50%

Kitimat MHA 11 12 16 45%

Prince Rupert MHA 33 33 36 9%

Smithers MHA 29 26 42 45%

Stewart MHA 5 3 4 -20%

Stikine MHA 13 8 13 0%

Terrace MHA 44 28 22 -50%

Vanderhoof MHA 48 52 55 15%


The District executive has placed a strong emphasis on female hockey, and has pushed for these

regional teams and more skill development opportunities. Due to the geography of the District, these

regional teams are typically split into “East” (Fraser Lake to Vanderhoof) and “West” (Prince Rupert

to Fraser Lake). At times, sparse numbers means teams meet in Smithers. The District schedules

“league weekends” for these female teams to play each other in a central location, and also schedules

skill development camps for female players during the off-season.

Only two (2) MHAs, Vanderhoof and Burns Lake, have rostered female teams on their own. It was

noted by Vanderhoof MHA that individual MHAs often get “territorial” about their players at the District

level, causing some issues with the District teams. There is also a lack of nearby opponents and

tournaments.

It was also noted that ringette is becoming increasingly popular in the area, particularly in Terrace.

12

Okanagan




3 Year Growth %

Chase MHA 29 28 8 -72%

Clearwater MHA 20 25 34 70%

Greater Vernon MHA 59 49 77 31%

Kamloops MHA 199 187 215 8%

Kelowna MHA 183 182 193 5%

Lillooet MHA 61 52 50 -18%

Logan Lake MHA 9 10 7 -22%

Lumby MHA 28 41 43 54%

Merritt MHA 75 73 54 -28%

North Okanagan MHA 19 17 14 -26%

Penticton MHA 112 153 142 27%

Princeton MHA 19 16 11 -42%

Revelstoke MHA 5 10 11 120%

Salmon Arm MHA 42 64 51 21%

Sicamous MHA 9 5 5 -44%

South Okanagan MHA 50 24 22 -56%

Summerland MHA 20 15 13 -35%

Thompson Cariboo MHA 35 34 29 -17%

West Kelowna MHA 28 25 21 -25%

Winfield MHA 33 35 35 6%

Total 1,035 1,045 1,035 0% *Based on BC Hockey Annual Reports

The single largest issue in the Okanagan seems to be that the female players are spread out amongst

several different Associations. Each year, Kelowna, Kamloops, and Penticton typically have

consistent numbers, but other Associations such as Salmon Arm and Vernon fluctuate season to

season. The Bantam and Midget divisions are particularly thin, as many of the more competitive

players have moved onto Hockey Canada Sport Schools (especially “local” options such as Pursuit

of Excellence in Kelowna and Okanagan Hockey Academy in Penticton) and the Female Midget AAA

team. As a result, there is a lack of Midget “A” and “C” teams, and Bantam teams are beginning to

thin out as well.

At a District level, there are no recruitment initiatives and no drive to assemble female teams –

Associations are largely left to their own devices. The District is quite flexible with blending divisions

and players, but is reactive rather than proactive.

13

At the MHA level, Kelowna noted a significant skill gap between players, particularly on their

recreational teams. They also noted that they often have “too many” female players for one (1) teams,

but not enough players (and/or goaltenders) for two (2) teams, especially at the Atom and Pee Wee

age groups. They also noted parent concerns regarding the “reputation” of female hockey – many

feel that the more skilled players are better off in the integrated stream.

In terms of senior female hockey, the South Coast Women’s Hockey League has one (1) Okanagan

based team, the Kamloops Vibe. Kelowna, Penticton, and Vernon/Armstrong have recreational

women’s leagues.




3 Year Growth %

Alberni Valley MHA 32 40 53 66%

Campbell River MHA 112 100 100 -11%

Comox Valley MHA 64 40 36 -44%

Cowichan Valley MHA 79 61 73 -8%

Gold River MHA 13 11 7 -46%

Juan de Fuca MHA 121 116 85 -30%

Kerry Park MHA 20 32 26 30%

Lake Cowichan MHA 21 14 13 -38%

Nanaimo MHA 95 108 91 -4%

Oceanside MHA 99 87 75 -24%

Peninsula MHA 59 57 53 -10%

Powell River MHA 58 60 55 -5%

Saanich MHA 37 54 71 92%

Sooke MHA 75 51 43 -43%

Tri Port MHA 83 92 84 1%

Victoria MHA 88 44 34 -61%

Victoria Racquet Club 10 9 9 -10%

Total 1,066 976 908 -15% *Based on BC Hockey Annual Reports

Vancouver Island is a troubling district with regards to overall growth and district policies, but

individual MHAs have done a good job of growing the female game in their communities. The district

itself operates carded teams at the Pee Wee, Bantam, and Midget levels, but does not have any

strategies for recreational-level player recruitment and development. A lack of consistency between

Associations with regards to policies such as dual-carding also creates confusion at times.

Associations such as Alberni Valley and Tri Port offer strong recruitment programs. Alberni Valley

utilizes First Shift, while Tri Port employs Esso Fun Days. Victoria MHA is offering a female-only First

Shift in the new year, the first of its kind on Vancouver Island and only the second in BC.

14

Alberni Valley noted opposing policies from neighboring MHAs can at times cause issues – for

example, Oceanside MHA does not allow female players to dual-card, but Alberni Valley and

Nanaimo do, which can be an issue when trying to find roster spots for players. Victoria MHA noted

similar frustrations with a variety of opposing policies between the MHAs in the South Island.

Female hockey has a poor perception amongst the majority of players and their parents, which in turn

weakens the sport. Dual-carding can also hurt female hockey at times, as female practices and

games are more sporadic than integrated, and female players often prefer to play with their integrated

teams as it feels like more of a “full time team”. Associations also noted a lack of access to ice

compared to integrated teams, especially in communities where there is already an ice crunch. In Tri

Port for example, one (1) of their three (3) rinks closed, and as a result, the female groups have been

pushed to much later ice times to accommodate integrated recreational teams.

At the local level, a lack of playing options post-Midget can be an issue in certain communities. Alberni

Valley noted the “gap year” between graduating Midget and being able to join the local women’s

hockey league. Tri Port noted a skill gap – females who have grown up playing hockey are often

significantly better than the recreational-level female hockey that is offered in their community. There

is one (1) competitive senior female team on the Island, the Island Surge of the South Coast Women’s

Hockey League. Victoria, Duncan, Nanaimo, and Campbell River have recreational women’s

leagues.

Lower Mainland - Female

Association 2015-2016

Total Female Players

2016-2017 Total Female

Players

2017-2018 Total Female

Players

3 Year Growth %

Abbotsford Female MHA 152 149 151 -1%

Langley Girls IHA 115 107 124 8%

Meadow Ridge Female 110 154 174 58%

North Shore Female IHA 249 252 248 0%

Richmond Girls IHA 263 256 228 -13%

Surrey Female IHA 188 198 212 13%

Tri -Cities Female IHA 228 220 246 8%

Vancouver Female IHA 195 237 284 46%

Lower Mainland - Integrated

Abbotsford MHA 11 17 22 100%

Aldergrove MHA 9 15 17 89%

Arbutus Club MHA 12 10 8 -33%

Burnaby MHA 75 83 83 11%

Burnaby Winter Club 8 7 8 0%

Chilliwack MHA 60 57 61 2%

Cloverdale MHA 23 25 29 26%

Coquitlam MHA 14 15 11 -21%

15

Hollyburn CC MHA 2 2 4 100%

Hope MHA 13 10 7 -46%

Langley MHA 15 12 11 -27%

Mission MHA 12 16 13 8%

New Westminster MHA 13 14 13 0%

North Delta MHA 24 26 27 13%

North Shore Winter Club 91 90 77 -15%

North Vancouver MHA 5 7 2 -60%

Port Coquitlam MHA 6 15 19 217%

Port Moody MHA 7 12 18 157%

Richmond MHA 12 15 16 33%

Ridge Meadows MHA 30 22 25 -17%

Seafair MHA 34 22 24 -29%

Semiahmoo MHA 32 19 26 -19%

South Delta MHA 74 91 130 76%

Squamish MHA 18 21 22 22%

Sunshine Coast 14 20 22 57%

Surrey MHA 19 24 18 -5%

Vancouver MHA 20 12 8 -60%

Vancouver Thunderbird 27 27 23 -15%

West Vancouver 13 14 18 38%

Whistler MHA 17 16 14 -18%

Total 2,210 2,309 2,443 11% *Based on BC Hockey Annual Reports

The Lower Mainland in unique in that a) they have far more female players (and teams) than any

other District and b) they have female MHAs alongside integrated MHAs.

The Lower Mainland has a total of eight (8) female MHAs. In these areas, female players can choose

to register with the female MHA or the integrated MHA. In other areas where there are no female

MHAs, such as Burnaby and Delta, the integrated MHAs operate female teams when possible.

Traditionally there has been more of a focus on recreational female hockey in the District and only

five (5) associations consistently ice “A” teams at every level.

After Midget, the Lower Mainland is the only area of the province to offer female Juvenile teams. The

South Coast Women’s Hockey League currently has six (6) teams based in the Lower Mainland and

operates at a AA level. There are also numerous recreational options available to players.

16

SWOT Analysis

After conducting these calls with associations from each District, we wanted to take a “birds eye

view” approach to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to female

hockey within BC and the Yukon.

STRENGTHS - Champions (the ones we have are great) - Opportunities for elite-level players - Alumni - Programming at elite level (increasing number

of athletes invited to Hockey Canada camps, making U18 Team Canada, etc.)

- Performance of Team BC at national level - National strategic plan (funding) - Team Canada success - Lots of opportunities for females to play (dual

carding, APs, exemptions, etc.) - Flexibility for players and teams

WEAKNESSES - District oversight / district control - Lack of identity/culture - Poor perception compared to integrated

hockey - Current recruitment initiatives and

programming (or lack thereof) - Lack of female playing opportunities - Local collaboration (ice compared to

integrated MHAs)

- Follow up programming at grassroots level

- Visibility of females players and alumni in marketing materials/website

- Female-specific coach/official training - Not many female coaches/bench staff - FMAAA open zones in Vancouver - Unmotivated MHAs

OPPORTUNITIES - Open for change, more champions - Female programming (recruitment, skill

development) - Alternate season programming - Marketing/culture/posters - Branding opportunities with FMAAA - Mentorship programming / Alumni - Connecting minor hockey and POE events (i.e.,

having minor players attend Team BC exhibition games)

- Mentorship - School programming, floorball - Volunteers - Hosting championships/major events (U18s,

etc.)

- BC Hockey Championships – combined events - Senior female programming - CanSkate > transition programming - Funding at provincial, national level

THREATS - Ringette, other winter sports (i.e. soccer) - Cost - Male coaches (can be a “deal breaker” for

some female athletes, especially at certain ages)

- Intimidation (social environment) - Social aspect - Evaluations - “No” (Some athletes don’t handle

rejection well)

17

Recommendations

Recommendation #1: Implement a Structure for Female Hockey Programming

To ensure that the recommendations from this report move forward, the most important

recommendation is to create a structure for Female Hockey Programming. This would be run in

a structure similar to the current Zone Programming.

BC Hockey would implement a Coordinator role to oversee female hockey programming within

the different Zones. They would work directly with the Zone Leads to ensure the programming

and recommendations are happening at the local level. The Female Coordinator would work

directly with the BC Hockey Staff resource in creating programming that can be run with in the

MHA.

The Female Zone Leads would work with the local MHAs to create zone teams that would play

against other teams in their geographic area. Right now, there are not enough players in many

MHAs to create one (1) team but if they combine with surrounding associations, they will be able

to create enough teams to support a “league” structure. By doing this and having the Zone Leads

assist, they will be able to work through policy, regulations and any exemptions that may be

needed and report back to the Coordinator.

Female Hockey Coordinator

Key Duties


• Maintain strong communication with BC Hockey Zone Leads


• Liaise with BC Hockey members on all female programming and ideas

• Assist with the delivery of seminars and meetings on female programming

• Assist with the execution of programming with Zone Leads

• Facilitate training session for Zone Leads

• Liaise with Hockey Canada on all female programming and ideas

• Work with Zone Leads to create annual female hockey goals and benchmarks

• Reports to the BC Hockey CEO through the Chief Program Officer

Female Zone Lead

Key Duties

• Organize female teams within in their zones





• Assist with executing programming within MHAs

18

• Create annual goals and targets for female hockey in district


The BC Hockey Female Delivery Group would be created to focus on reviewing and providing

recommendations on new programming. The Female Hockey Coordinator would represent the

chair of this task group. The Delivery Group would review policy and provided recommendations

to the Female Hockey Advisory Group.

Further explanation of their task group and their mandate is in the terms of reference outlined

below on pages 38 - 40 in Appendix A.

Budget

These new positions come with a significant responsibility, and as such, these volunteers should

be compensated appropriately.

The funding request to the Board of Directors is to provide the honorarium funding ($21,000/ year)

for two (2) years, utilizing $17,000 of the legacy funding remaining from the 2016 Women’s World

Championship that was held in Kamloops that was set aside for coach development and female

recruitment initiatives. The remaining $25,000 would be requested from the general reserve.

After two (2) years, based on our goal of a registration increase of 300 players, we will increase

the female membership fee by $4.00 per female player. This increase will cover the honorariums

for these positions and be self sufficient for the future of female programming.

19

BC Hockey Female Coordinator

Okanagan Lead

MHA Female Directors

20 MHAs

North Lead


26 MHAs

Vancouver Island Lead


17 MHAs

Kootenays Lead


15 MHAs

Lower Mainland Lead


37 MHAs

BC Hockey Female Programming

Organizational Chart

20

Recommendation #2: Create Female Hockey Associations

While preparing this report, we reached out to 23 different Minor Hockey Associations across

British Columbia and the Yukon, two (2) other Hockey Canada members, and Hockey Canada.

While some of the issues that were brought up are not easily solved – BC’s geography, for

instance – many are fixable. A focus on female-driven programming needs to be made to ensure

that female hockey grows within the branch.

Many of our recommendations echo those made in Women In Sport: Fueling a Lifetime of

Participation (Brunette and O'Rielly 2016). These include:

- Consult with girls and women to understand local realities that may hinder participation,

and to develop programming that meets their needs, interests, and experiences.

- Launch free and low-cost community female-only sport opportunities such as open houses

or try-it days to expose diverse females to new sports in a safe and supportive

environment.

- Focus on fun, pleasure, and challenge of participation, considering the age and abilities

of participants.

- Help build girls’ confidence in sport by focusing on fundamental movement skills such as

kicking, running, jumping, catching, and throwing before introducing fundamental sport-

specific skills.

- Encourage girls to join and continue to play, coach, and officiate a variety of sports from

youth into adulthood.

Female associations allow participants, volunteers, and associated resources to focus solely on female hockey, which addresses one (1) of the largest problems with integrated MHAs – that female hockey is often “second fiddle” to integrated hockey, especially at a carded or “rep” level. (CBC News 2014) The formation of many female associations, particularly in Ontario, has led to facilities providing equal ice time. (Ormsby 2009 ) These associations will be female-focused, allowing stronger recruitment initiatives, coaching education and mentorship, and playing opportunities for female players. The formation of female associations also gives more females, especially those in rural areas, a place to play with other females. This in turn can increase registration, as many parents are more likely to register their daughter if there is guaranteed to be a female team. For example, Kelowna MHA often has “too many” female players for one (1) female team in any given division, but “not enough” for two (2) teams. Under a regional female association model, Kelowna could roster two (2) female teams, with a mix of female players from Kelowna and surrounding areas (West Kelowna, Winfield, Penticton, Summerland, etc.) Eventually, the formation of female MHAs will allow for less travel as there will be more teams within a geographic area, lessening another common challenge. Female hockey associations (FHAs) are the leading delivery model for female hockey in Canada.

Outside of BC, most major cities have FHAs or an equivalent geographic administration of female

hockey.

21

Currently in BC, the FHA model has proven successful with higher growth than traditional

integrated Minor Hockey Associations over the last decade (see table on next page).

The concept of female associations is not new in BC. The Vancouver Girls Ice Hockey Association (Vancouver Angels) originated in 1972 and was followed in 1994 by the incorporation of female associations in Surrey, Richmond, Langley and Pitt Meadows/Maple Ridge. Tri Cities (Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody) was established in 1997, and North Shore in 1998. Most recently, the Abbotsford FHA formed in 2007. In 2006-2007 there were 87 female players registered with Abbotsford MHA. After Abbotsford FHA was formed, there were just 14 players who remained with the integrated association and 104 who registered with the female association – a 47% increase over the previous season. How Will Female Associations Work?

We plan to implement a model similar to Hockey Nova Scotia. In areas where there are currently

no FHAs (i.e., every District but the Lower Mainland), “zones” will be formed to create female

teams wherever possible. Players wishing to participate in female hockey will register through a

“central registry” early in the summer.

After the central registry has been updated with all interested players, BC Hockey’s zone leads

will form female teams based on geographic areas within their zones, keeping in mind driving

times and distances. Where possible, both recreational and carded teams would be formed. In

the case of carded teams, BC Hockey would administer a standard try-out/evaluation process

across all zones.

Female teams would then be assigned to “host” MHAs, who would assign ice to the teams. The

players’ registration fees would be paid to these host MHAs to cover the costs of ice.

Eventually, FHAs would form within these zones – for example, a South Okanagan FHA could

form out of the Okanagan zone. This has occurred in Nova Scotia – in three (3) seasons, the

branch has gone from zero (0) FHAs to three (3) – two (2) in the Halifax Metro Area and one (1)

in the more rural Annapolis Valley.

This model follows what Hockey Nova Scotia has implemented over the last two (2) years. All

females outside of the Lower Mainland (where Female MHAs already exist) would be registered

under one of the four (4) zones:

• Vancouver Island

• Okanagan

• Kootenays

• North

Administrative Procedure

All four (4) zones have Zone Leads that report to the Female Hockey Coordinator and BC Hockey.

The goal of these four (4) zones is:

22

• To allow them under the direction of BC Hockey to have autonomy over female hockey in

their areas, moving away from the traditional Minor Hockey Association structure.

• To eventually establish themselves as a fully recognized and approved Female Hockey

Association.

The roles and responsibilities of the Zone Leads is outlined on page 40. In part, they are

responsible for:

• Coach Selection

• Player Selection

• Player Evaluation

• Team Selection

They are also responsible for the day-to-day operations of female hockey within their zone under

the authority of BC Hockey. Minor Hockey Associations that have ice contracts and have agreed

to host female hockey teams once contacted by the Zone Lead will be hosts.

Registration Process

The Central Registry will help improve the administration of the female game in British Columbia.

By signing up earlier in the year, players allow Zone Leads to organize and get teams on the ice

sooner.

Any players who plan on playing female hockey in BC in the East Kootenay, North Central, North

East, North West, Okanagan, Vancouver Island, or West Kootenay Zones for the 2019 – 2020

season must register through the Central Registry by July 1, 2019.

When players have signed up with their respective Female Hockey Zone, they will be placed on

teams by the Zone Leads. When a team has been formed, it will then be assigned back to a Minor

Hockey Association in the Female Hockey Zone. Players will pay their registration to the host

Minor Hockey Association.

Operational Process

1. All players wishing to play female hockey in the above zones must register through the

Central Registry. The data collected in the online registry is reviewed by the Female

Hockey Coordinator and the Zone Lead.

2. The last week of July, the Female Hockey Coordinator and Zone Leads will have a meeting

to look at numbers at all levels of play and populate teams at both the “A” and “C” levels

in each area.

3. The Zone Leads then go back to their zones and look at coordinating tryouts for

competitive teams and placing teams with host MHAs. Teams are charged the fees that

would be paid by other teams playing within the host MHAs.

The goal of setting up these Zones is to provide Zone Leads with the hands-on experience of

administering female hockey with the ultimate objective of forming female hockey associations.

23

MHAs 2017-18 MHAs 2017-18

Canal Flats MHA 0 Boundary 14

Cranbrook MHA 27 Castlegar MHA 19

Creston Valley MHA 13 Grand Forks MHA 20

Elk Valley MHA 22 Greater Trail MHA 60

Fernie MHA 10 Kaslo MHA 6

Golden MHA 13 Nakusp MHA 12

Kimberley MHA 28 Nelson MHA 19

Windermere Valley 45 Total 150

Total 158

MHAs 2017-18 MHAs 2017-18 MHAs 2017-18

Chetwynd MHA 38 100 Mile House MHA 49 Burns Lake MHA 47

Clearview MHA 45 MacKenzie MHA 36 Fort St James MHA 19

Dawson Creek MHA 64 McBride MHA 0 Fraser Lake MHA 26

Fort Nelson MHA 55 Prince George MHA 120 Hazelton MHA 30

Fort St John MHA 67 Quesnel MHA 63 Houston MHA 10

Hudson's Hope MHA 11 Valemount MHA 13 Kitimat MHA 16

Peace River District 42 Williams Lake MHA 120 Prince Rupert MHA 36

Taylor MHA 19 Total 401 Smithers MHA 42

Tumbler Ridge MHA 13 Stewart MHA 4

Total 354 Stikine MHA 13

Terrace MHA 22

Vanderhoof MHA 55

Total 320

MHAs 2017-18 MHAs 2017-18 MHAs 2017-18

Clearwater MHA 34 Chase MHA 8 Kelowna MHA 193

Kamloops MHA 215 Greater Vernon MHA 77 Penticton MHA 142

Lillooet MHA 50 Lumby MHA 43 Princeton MHA 11

Logan Lake MHA 7 North Okanagan MHA 14 South Okanagan MHA 22

Merritt MHA 54 Revelstoke MHA 11 Summerland MHA 13

Thompson Cariboo MHA 29 Salmon Arm MHA 51 West Kelowna MHA 21

Total 389 Sicamous MHA 5 Winfield MHA 35

Total 209 Total 437

MHAs 2017-18 MHAs 2017-18 MHAs 2017-18

Campbell River MHA 100 Alberni Valley MHA 53 Juan de Fuca MHA 85

Comox Valley MHA 36 Cowichan Valley MHA 73 Peninsula MHA 53

Gold River MHA 7 Kerry Park MHA 26 Saanich MHA 71

Powell River MHA 55 Lake Cowichan MHA 13 Sooke MHA 43

Tri Port MHA 84 Nanaimo MHA 91 Victoria MHA 34

Total 282 Oceanside MHA 75 Victoria Racquet Club 9

Total 331 Total 295

OKANAGAN ZONE

VANCOUVER ISLAND ZONE

KOOTENAY ZONE

NORTH ZONE

Central Okanagan Zone South Okanagan Zone

North Vancouver Island Zone Central Vancouver Island Zone South Vancouver Island Zone

East Kootenay Zone West Kootenay Zone

North Central ZoneNorth East Zone North West Zone

North Okanagan Zone

24

CENTRAL REGISTRY

VANCOUVER ISLAND

ZONE LEAD

RECRUITMENT INITIATIVES

FEMALE HOCKEY

ASSOCIATIONS

NORTH ISLAND

MID ISLAND

CAPITAL REGION

OKANAGANZONE LEAD


FEMALE HOCKEY

ASSOCIATIONS

NORTH OKANAGAN

CENTRAL OKANAGAN

SOUTH OKANAGAN

KOOTENAYZONE LEAD


FEMALE HOCKEY

ASSOCIATIONS

EAST KOOTENAY

WEST KOOTENAY

NORTHZONE LEAD


FEMALE HOCKEY

ASSOCIATIONS

NORTH EAST

NORTH CENTRAL

NORTH WEST

LOWER MAINLAND ZONE

LEAD


FEMALE HOCKEY

ASSOCIATIONS

ABBOTSFORDLANGLEY

MEADOW RIDGENORTH SHORE

RICHMONDSURREY

TRI CITIESVANCOUVER

BURNABY/NEW WESTCHILLIWACK

DELTASQUAMISH/WHISTLER

FEMALE COORDINATOR

FEMALE HOCKEY ASSOCIATION STRUCTURE (ANTICIPATED - 2019 – 2020)

25

Female Associations

Association

2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-2018

Association 8 Year Avg. Growth %

Association 8 Year

Absolute Growth %

Association 8 Year

Absolute Growth # Players

# Players

% Growth

# Players

% Growth

# Players

% Growth

# Players

% Growth

Abbotsford Female 127 15% 152 20% 149 -2% 151 1% 3.24% 29.06% 34

Langley Girls 115 10% 115 0% 126 10% 124 -2% -0.30% -2.36% -3

Meadow Ridge Female 94 1% 110 17% 154 40% 174 13% 8.44% 91.21% 83

North Shore Female 224 -3% 249 11% 252 1% 248 -2% 3.32% 29.84% 57

Richmond Ravens 267 5% 247 -7% 256 4% 228 -11% 2.65% 23.24% 43

Surrey Female 176 -17% 188 7% 198 5% 212 7% 2.21% 19.10% 34

Tri Cities Female 230 -3% 228 -1% 220 -4% 246 12% 1.94% 16.59% 35

Vancouver Female 183 5% 195 7% 237 22% 284 20% 10.91% 129.03% 160

Female Programs Within Integrated Associations

Association

2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-2018

Association 8 Year Avg.

Growth

Association 8 Year

Absolute Growth %

Association 8 Year

Absolute Growth # Players

# Players

% Growth

# Players

% Growth

# Players

% Growth

# Players

% Growth

Burnaby 58 -9% 65 12% 70 8% 70 0% 1.13% 9.38% 6

Chilliwack 16 -73% 0 -100% 0 0% 16 100% -15.40% -73.77% -45

NS Winter Club 66 20% 83 26% 86 4% 73 -15% -0.66% -5.19% -4

South Delta 74 4% 55 -26% 53 -4% 74 40% -2.14% -15.91% -14

Figures courtesy of Drew MacDonald, PCAHA

26

Retention

In an effort to retain the current female players in our associations, BC Hockey recommends that

each Minor Hockey Association has their own dedicated female director focused on female

hockey. With female hockey as a leading priority on both BC Hockey and Hockey Canada’s

strategic plans, a focus needs to be made at the minor hockey level. The Female Director’s role

within their association would solely be on female programming and would include:

• Promoting BC Hockey, district, and association female programs

• Hosting Try It and ESSO Fun Day events

• Working with district leads to create teams

• Working with district leads to examine and propose policy exemptions

• Attending webinars and meetings as needed

• Representing female programming on local MHA Boards

Branding and Culture

Hockey is not just a sport, but an identity and culture for young female athletes. As a social sport,

an athlete feels included if they are wearing the same logo and apparel as their friends and

teammates. With the proposed restructure of the Female Hockey Associations, BC Hockey will

create a brand that represents all of our participants.

Female athletes want the stickers, pins, toques and apparel with our logo on it. Creating an

excitement around BC Hockey Female Programming will begin to create a culture that will gain

the interest of new participants and will retain athletes already involved in the game.

This branding would be used within all female programming from jamborees and recruitment

events to the Program of Excellence, and Championships. If a program has a connection with

female hockey it will utilize this branding on some level.

The major visual point for our branding our website. We will be looking at a full restructure of the

female web pages. This was a common theme from the calls that were facilitated that it was very

hard to find information on female hockey. This will be updated to have a one point of reference

with all female programming based off that page. This will streamline all communication and

programming resources.

27

Recommendation #3: Execute Female First Shift Programs

One (1) of the most prominent problems that we came across in the consultation process was a

lack of female goaltenders at every level. Reasons were given such as:

• Low female numbers in general

• Parents not wanting to commit to the cost of equipment

• Girls not wanting to commit to playing goal for the entire season

A lack of female goaltenders ultimately leads to a lack of female teams.

As such, we plan to use the First Shift program to address this growing problem. We would utilize

the First Shift program as follows:

2019-2020 Season

Pilot 1 Pilot 2

30 skaters 30 skaters

5 goalies 5 goalies

2020-2021 Season

Island North Okanagan Kootenays Lower Mainland

30 skaters 30 skaters 30 skaters 30 skaters 15 goalies

5 goalies 5 goalies 5 goalies 5 goalies

The skater recruitment would follow the typical First Shift model – new players between the ages

of six (6) and 10. Goalie recruitment would allow existing players between the ages of eight (8)

and 12 to try out the position.

The host community would rotate in each District – for example, the Island and Okanagan would

alternate between North and South; the North would alternate between North East, North Central,

and North West; and the Kootenays would alternate between East and West. An example of the

host community rotation:

Season Island North Okanagan Kootenays Lower Mainland

2020-2021 South North Central South East Lion’s Gate

2021-2022 North North West North West Fraser Valley

The equipment would stay with the player as long as they played in net and would then be

returned to the Female Association (and stored at BC Hockey Regional Centres) to have an

inventory of goalie equipment for future programming.

These programs would grow both the player and goalie infrastructure, allowing more female

teams to form throughout the province.

28

Recommendation #4: Create Female Multisport Camp Pilot Program

With the importance of physical literacy being promoted to athletes, we plan to work other PSOs

and the athletes participating in those sports as well as those that are currently not playing any

sports. With the number of females in schools this would be the ideal scenario to gain participants.

Pilot Program Structure

To have a successful pilot program, we would target an MHA that we feel is a “Champion” in the

female game. Vancouver Female MHA would be a target association to facilitate a camp such as

this in partnership with BC Hockey.

Camp Structure

• Hosted on Pro D Days

• Work with school districts to promote

• BC Hockey and three (3) to four (4) other Provincial Sport Organization facilitate a one (1)

day camp

• Hosted in August or September to gain interest and utilize transitionary programming

• Creating good partnerships through conversations with other PSOs, parents and children

Progression Plan to Registration

• Enroll in CanSkate within their association

• Register with an MHA for January – March programming

o Offering alternate programming is attractive for new registrants due to the lower

amount of time commitment

• Register the following season as a full-time female hockey player

29

Recommendation #5: Pursue Female Event Hosting

Events such as the Esso Cup and Women’s U18 Nationals allow female players in the host

communities to witness exceptional female hockey, and also allow for the creation of recruitment

and skill development events around the tournament.

For example, when the 2016 IIHF Women’s World Championship was held in Kamloops, BC

Hockey and Hockey Canada planned six (6) events across the Okanagan/Thompson-Cariboo

region, stretching from Kelowna to 100 Mile House. These events ranged from Esso Fun Days to

skill clinics and Jamborees and reached over 300 female players. Additionally, BC Hockey’s 2016

Female Championships were held in Kamloops, the first time the Pee Wee, Bantam, and Midget

Championships were all held in the same community. These events had a large economic impact

and inspired the next generation of female hockey players in the Okanagan.

The Esso Cup, Hockey Canada’s national female Midget AAA championship, has been hosted in

BC just once in the 11 years since its inception:

Esso Cup (National Female Midget AAA Championship)

2009 Calgary, AB

2010 Regina, SK

2011 St. Albert, AB

2012 Charlottetown, PE

2013 Burnaby, BC

2014 Hamilton, ON

2015 Red Deer, AB

2016 Weyburn, SK

2017 Morden, MB

2018 Bridgewater, NS

2019 Sudbury, ON

Similarly, Hockey Canada’s National Women’s U18 Championship has been held in BC two (2)

times out of 10 events:

National Women’s U18 Championship

2005 Salmon Arm, BC

2007 Trois-Rivieres, BC

2008 Napanee, ON

2009 Surrey, BC

2011 Saguenay, QC

2012 Dawson Creek, BC

2013 Calgary, AB

2015 Huntsville, ON

2016 Regina, SK

2017 Quebec City, QC

We plan to explore the possibility of submitting one (1) bid to Hockey Canada to host these events

in future seasons. We can also look at other domestic events we could assist our members with

hosting, such as assisting the University of British Columbia with a bid to host the U Sports

Women’s Hockey Championship.

30

Finally, BC Hockey’s Female Championships can be an event on their own. As evidenced when

all three (3) Championships were held in Kamloops, events such as this create excitement and

buzz around female hockey and allow for recruitment and development opportunities. While

hosting three (3) simultaneous Championships may limit the number of communities who can

host, we believe it is a worthwhile endeavor. We also recommend moving the Championships to

be one (1) week later than the integrated Championships. The reason for this recommendation is

two-fold:

1) Particularly at the Pee Wee level, females often play on both integrated and female carded

teams that qualify for Championships. With the current two (2) day gap for Championships,

female players often have to choose which Championship to attend as there is too much

travel to be able to attend both events.

2) Moving the Female Championships to a separate week will allow more attention to be

placed on the events.

31

Recommendation #5: Update Female Player Pathway

BC Hockey’s Female Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model was last modified in the

2006-2007 season with the advent of the Female Midget AAA Program.

The model has been updated to reflect current playing options, particularly at the Midget level

(specifically Hockey Canada Sport Schools and the Junior Women’s Hockey League).

Additionally, we felt it was important to show the progression from Pee Wee to Midget in two (2)

different streams – Active for Life (recreational) and Competitive. The third stream is High

Performance, which focuses on both BC Hockey and Hockey Canada’s respective Programs of

Excellence.

We also wanted to emphasize “Below Pee Wee” programming, as reflected in our “Pillars”

document. Unlike male hockey, female players tend to enter the game at later stages. It is

important to place an emphasis on recruitment initiatives such as The First Shift, Esso Fun Days,

and Learn to Play Programs.

A stress was also placed on promoting physical literacy:

“Evidence suggests that girls do not receive sufficient quality skill development opportunities.

Early socialization, cultural differences, limited or a lack of appealing opportunities, and leader

expectations all play a role…Girls and young women are more likely to be engaged, have fun and

stay involved (as well as understand the health benefits of participating) if they feel connected,

capable and have a sense of choice…Sport organizations need to provide opportunities for a wide

range of activities and experiences in a variety of settings so women and girls benefit from

fundamental movement and sports skills and develop physical literacy.” (Johnstone and Millar

2012)

Active for Life

Community-based recreational teams at the Pee Wee, Bantam, and Midget level. Players can

affiliate to Competitive teams. Graduating players can move onto recreational senior female

hockey depending on what is available in their community.

Competitive

Community-based competitive teams at Pee Wee, Bantam, and Midget compete for BC Hockey

Championships. At the Midget level, players have options between three (3) main streams: Midget

A (community-based), Female Midget AAA, and Hockey Canada Sports Schools/Junior hockey.

The Female Midget AAA program currently has five (5) teams across BC (Vancouver Island,

Greater Vancouver, Fraser Valley, Thompson-Okanagan, and North). These teams play a full

schedule with extensive travel, and the opportunity to compete for provincial, regional, and

national championships.

Hockey Canada Sports Schools can feature regional league play from BC to Manitoba and into

the United States in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL).

The one (1) BC team categorized as Junior Female is the Pacific Steelers. They currently play in

the Junior Women’s Hockey League (JWHL) and play a “showcase weekend” structured schedule

across North America.

32

At the senior level, players can move on to post-secondary options such as U Sports (formerly

CIS) or Sr. A/AA. The South Coast Women’s Hockey League features AA play with nine (9) teams

across the province, including the Lower Mainland, Victoria, Kamloops, and Prince George.

High Performance

The U12/U14 Female Program of Excellence (formerly High Performance Program) acts as a

feeder for the Female U16/U18 Program of Excellence. The inclusion of a U12/U14 POE level is

a result of BC Hockey adopting the Long Term Athlete Development Model. Research shows

that athletes aged 10 and 13 are considered a key age range in several skill and physical

development phases. Using age and developmentally appropriate materials, the program will

introduce key areas of on-ice skill development and off-ice training allowing them to be successful

regardless of the path they choose within the game. The U12/U14 POE is considered

developmental only, where no teams will be selected. The purpose of the program is to introduce

eligible athletes to high performance hockey focusing on both on and off ice aspects of the game.

The athletes will be exposed to sport science principals in the areas of nutrition, mental training,

and physical preparation.

The U16 and U18 levels of the Female Program of Excellence were recently combined, as U16

athletes are eligible for participation on U18 Team BC. There is a large learning component to the

camps. The players will be coached and evaluated by POE staff members and given lessons on

proper warm up technique, nutrition, strength and conditioning and game play. The importance of

fitness is stressed as well as the need to have a yearlong training plan in place.

The U18 program is designed to emulate national and international competitions and provides an

opportunity to excel at an elite level. U16 and U18 players are evaluated by POE evaluators at

the club team level throughout the season. U18 athletes are evaluated on their play at the national

competition and successful players will be invited to the Hockey Canada U18 Identification Camp.

The POE prepares players for the national program where they will undergo the same fitness

testing and attend similar types of camps. Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence includes the

National Women’s U18 Team, National Women’s Development Team (formerly National Under-

22 Team), and National Women’s Team.

TR

AIN

TO

TR

AIN

T

RA

IN T

O

CO

MP

ET

E

INITIATION Fundamental movement skills should be mastered and motor

development emphasized. For optimal skill acquisition, the basic

hockey skills of skating and puck control are introduced through

the Initiation Program.

ACTIVE FOR LIFE COMPETITIVE

SENIOR HOCKEY (LOCAL)

SR. A/AA (PROVINCIAL)

BANTAM A (LOCAL)

PEE WEE A (LOCAL)

PEE WEE C (LOCAL)

BANTAM C (LOCAL)

MIDGET C (LOCAL)

MID

GE

T A

(L

OC

AL

)

FM

AA

A

(PR

OV

INC

IAL)

HC

SS

/JR

. (R

EG

ION

AL)

U12/U14 (REGIONAL)

U16/U18 (PROVINCIAL)

U18 TEAM BC (NATIONAL)

HIGH PERFORMANCE

NATIONAL TEAMS (INTERNATIONAL)

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AIN

TO

WIN

E

XC

EL

LE

AR

N T

O P

LA

Y

RE

CR

UIT

ME

NT

INIT

IAT

IVE

S

(FIR

ST

SH

IFT

, E

SS

O F

UN

DA

YS

, LE

AR

N

TO

PLA

Y,

ET

C.)

PHYSICAL

LITERACY This is an important period for

acquiring fundamental

movement skills (running,

gliding, jumping, kicking,

catching…) that lay the

foundation for more complex

movements, thereby preparing

children for a physically active

lifestyle. Participation in many

sports/activities is encouraged.

NOVICE During this period players continue to develop motor skills and

coordination. The Novice skills program is designed to promote

the continued development of physical literacy, fitness, and the

basic skills required to play hockey.

ATOM This stage is the most important window to develop fine motor

skills on an individual technical basis that leads to utilizing these

skills into individual and team tactics later on. Players should be

able to begin to transfer skills/concepts from practices to games.

HOCKEY CANADA PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE

(NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL)

FEMALE PLAYER PATHWAY – LONG TERM PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

U SPORTS (NATIONAL)

TR

AIN

TO

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MP

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E

TR

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WIN

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O T

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IN

Sport Canada’s Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) Resource Paper “Canadian Sport for Life” sets out a framework for

sport development in Canada. Hockey Canada’s Long Term Player Development (LTPD) model is nine (9) stages, based

on the physical, mental, emotional and cognitive development of children and adolescents. Each stage reflects a different

point in developing the player. The first three (3) stages emphasize physical literacy and a broad range of sport experiences.

The next four (4) to five (5) stages focus on development and competitive excellence. Active for Life encourages life-long

physical activity and informed healthy lifestyle choices with participation in hockey long after the competitive years.

LA

ST

UP

DA

TE

D 2

018-1

1-2

1

34

Evaluation Process The evaluation of our recommendations is based on the SMART (Specific, Measurable,

Attainable, Realistic, Timely) method. Each of these goals of evaluation are outlined over 1, 3, 5,

and 10 years. Internal reviews will occur annually for specific goals and programming.

S – Specific, M – Measurable, A – Attainable, R – Realistic, T – Timely

1 Year (2019-2020 season) 3 Years (2021-2022 season)

# of Players

- Additional 2% increase - Additional 2% increase

Fem

ale

MH

As

- Establish framework and branding - Pilot Program in two (2) Districts o Evaluate based on number of

registrants and teams o Survey participants - Have BC Hockey Female Lead and

District Leads in place o Training o Monthly communication o Review checklists/tasks monthly o Annual reviews

- Each District operating Female Hockey Associations

o Evaluate based on number of registrants and teams

o Survey participants - Continue with BC Hockey Female

Lead and District Leads, evaluate where needed

Re

cru

itm

en

t

Init

iati

ves

- Host one (1) Multi-Sport pilot event o # of participants o Survey participants - Host two (2) Hockey Canada First

Shift Goaltending Pilots o # of participants o Survey participants

- Host two (2) Multi-Sport events per season

o # of participants o Survey participants

- Host a Hockey Canada First Shift Goaltending program in each District


Ma

rke

tin

g/

Bra

nd

ing

- Establish female page on BC Hockey website

o Review social metrics and website traffic data

- Develop “BC Hockey Female” logo - Develop female

advertising/marketing materials

- Review social metrics and website traffic data

- Continue to develop and distribute female advertising/marketing materials

Ev

en

t

Ho

sti

ng

- Explore bid opportunities for U18 Nationals, Esso Cup

- Submit Bid o Successful/Unsuccessful bid

> Review feedback from Hockey Canada

- Review bid guidelines and host community rotations

35

S – Specific, M – Measurable, A – Attainable, R – Realistic, T – Timely

5 Years (2023-2024 season) 10 Years (2029-2030 season)

# of Players

- Additional 2% increase - Additional 2% increase

Fem

ale

MH

As



o Survey participants o Continue with BC Hockey

Female Lead and District Leads, evaluate where needed



o Survey participants o Continue with BC Hockey

Female Lead and District Leads, evaluate where needed

Re

cru

itm

en

t

Init

iati

ves









Ma

rke

tin

g/

Bra

nd

ing





Ev

en

t

Ho

sti

ng



36

References

Brunette, Michelle K., and Norman O'Rielly. 2016. Women in Sport: Fuelling A Lifetime of

Participation. Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women in Sport.

CBC News. 2014. "Girls' hockey not getting boys' opportunities, says Kelowna Minor Hockey's

Kent Johnson." CBC News. December 2. Accessed November 29, 2018.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/girls-hockey-not-getting-boys-

opportunities-says-kelowna-minor-hockey-s-kent-johnson-1.2857421.

DeFranzo, Susan E. 2011. Snap Surveys. September 16. Accessed 11 29, 2018.

https://www.snapsurveys.com/blog/qualitative-vs-quantitative-research/.

Hockey Canada. n.d. Hockey Canada Co-Ed Dressing Room Policy.

http://www.hockeynovascotia.ca/files/hockeycanadacoedroompolicy06.pdf.

Johnstone, Lori, and Sydney Millar. 2012. Actively Engaging Women and Girls: Addressing the

Psycho-Social Factors. Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport

and Physical Activity.

Ormsby, Mary. 2009 . "Move over, boys, girls are getting their ice time." Toronto Star.

November 12. Accessed November 29, 2018.

https://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/2009/11/12/move_over_boys_girls_are_getting_t

heir_ice_time.html.

37 37

APPENDIX A – FEMALE

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

38 38

Female Hockey Delivery Group Terms of Reference

Mandate

The Female Hockey Delivery group is responsible to:

• Review current female programming at all levels of female hockey

• Propose new programming, promotional concepts to grow the game

• Policy and regulation adjustments if required

• Suggestions to promote, support and grow the female game

Deadline for Completion

The Female Hockey Delivery Group will be an ongoing task group to work and provide input on various projects throughout the year. Various deadlines have been set to provide timelines on different projects:

• Create a female grassroot development plan

• Create recruitment and retention plan for the next three (3) years

• Create Female Coach Development Plan

• Continue to restructure the Female Program of Excellence

Key Duties

The Female Hockey Delivery Group will perform the following key duties and achieve the below goals:

• Review of grassroots development

• Review recruitment and retention strategies

• Review elite female program streams and pathway design

• Review and create a plan for female coach development

• Review female programming (i.e. Championships, skill weekends)

Authority

The Female Hockey Delivery Group will exercise its authority in accordance with BC Hockey Bylaws, Regulations, and Policies, and such additional provisions as set out in the Terms of Reference. The task group reports to the BC Hockey Chief Executive Officer.

Composition

The Female Hockey Delivery Group will be composed of individuals appointed by the Chief Executive Officer, or designate, in conjunction with the Female Hockey Program Coordinator.

Meetings TBD

Resources

The Female Hockey Delivery Group will receive the necessary resources from BC Hockey, to the extent approved in the annual budget, to fulfill its mandate. It will also receive administrative support from the BC Hockey office.

Reporting The Female Hockey Delivery Group will maintain minutes of its meetings and will make those minutes available to Female Development Task Group members and the Board of Directors.

Approval & Review

These Terms of Reference were approved by the Chief Executive Officer. The CEO will review these Terms of Reference as required and will make revisions, as warranted.

39 39

Job Descriptions

BC Hockey Female Coordinator

Role Oversee the implementation of Female Hockey Association programming in all districts across the province. Two (2) year contract with the possibility of extension.

Key Duties


• Maintain a strong working relationship with BC Hockey Staff Resource

• Maintain good communication with BC Hockey Staff Resource and Zone Leads



• Assist with conducting seminars and meetings on female programming

• Assist with executing programming in district associations

• Facilitate training session for district leads

• Liaise with Hockey Canada in cooperation with the BC Hockey Staff Resource

• Work with District Associations to create annual female hockey goals and report to the BC Hockey CEO

Qualifications

• Strong commitment to the female game

• Must have good administrative, organizational, and communication skills

• Experience facilitating female programming at the minor hockey level

• Respect in Sport Certification

• Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Person Check

Appointment Appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. The Chief Executive Officer shall determine the appointment process, job description and annual performance review of the appointee(s). Notification of the required position will be circulated annually (incumbents are required to indicate a desire to continue in the position).

40 40

Female Zone Lead

Role Oversee the implementation of Female Hockey Association programming within their district. Two (2) year contract with the possibility of extension.

Key Duties

• Organize delivery of Female Hockey Associations model within their district





• Assist with executing programming in district associations

• Create annual goals and targets for female hockey in districts


Qualifications

• Strong commitment to the female game

• Must have good administration, organizational, and communication skills

• Experience facilitating female programming at the minor hockey level

• Respect in Sport Certification

• Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Person Check

Appointment Appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. The Chief Executive Officer shall determine the appointment process, job description and annual performance review of the appointee(s). Notification of the required position will be circulated annually (incumbents are required to indicate a desire to continue in the position).

Female Hockey Programming Checklist

District Female Lead Checklist

Gather contact information for all female directors in the District

Attend District meetings and update on female hockey

Host a minimum of three (3) ESSO Fun Days in the District

Host a minimum of one (1) female jamboree or skill development event/camp in the District

Assist with Program of Excellence camps if hosted in the District

41 41

APPENDIX B – FEMALE HOCKEY

ASSOCIATIONS

.net 42

Pillars of Female Hockey

Purpose: To create more opportunities for female players in British Columbia and the Yukon.

Serving Female Players of All Ages and Abilities

Accessibility Focus on Below

Pee Wee Rec Before Rep Solid Governance

Structure

Make the hockey experience an easier

commitment for parents and players.

Offer multiple points of entry for new players.

Recruitment concentrated at Initiation, Novice, and

Atom levels.

Emphasis on strong coaching and skill

development at these levels.

Focus on recreational hockey before competitive

programming.

Efforts should be made to create as many

recreational teams as possible.

Create a strong foundation for female hockey in each

area.

Strong volunteers ensure that programs are sustainable for the foreseeable future.

Female Organizations, Female Opportunities

43 43

APPENDIX C – REGISTRATION

FIGURES

44

Female Teams – Recreational and Carded, By District

East Kootenay (Recreational) East Kootenay (Carded)

Division 2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-2018 Division 2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-2018

Atom 0 0 0 1 Pee Wee 0 0 1 0

Pee Wee 0 0 0 0 Bantam 0 0 0 0

Bantam 0 1 1 1 Midget 1 1 1 0

Midget 1 1 1 0 TOTAL 1 1 2 0

TOTAL 1 2 2 2

West Kootenay (Recreational) West Kootenay (Carded)


Atom 0 0 0 0 Pee Wee 1 0 0 1



Midget 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 3 1 1 1

TOTAL 0 0 0 0

Okanagan (Recreational) Okanagan (Carded)


Atom 6 6 5 6 Pee Wee 2 1 2 1



Midget 10 8 8 8 TOTAL 9 7 7 7

TOTAL 26 22 22 21

45

North Central (Recreational) North Central (Carded)


Atom 0 0 0 1 Pee Wee 1 1 0 1



Midget 1 1 1 0 TOTAL 6 5 2 4

TOTAL 1 1 2 6

North East/Yukon (Recreational) North East/Yukon (Carded)


Atom 2 1 2 0 Pee Wee 0 0 0 1



Midget 1 3 5 5 TOTAL 3 0 1 3

TOTAL 5 7 10 10

North West (Recreational) North West (Carded)


Atom 0 0 2 2 Pee Wee 0 0 0 0



Midget 3 2 1 2 TOTAL 1 1 2 1

TOTAL 5 3 4 7

46

Lower Mainland (Recreational) Lower Mainland (Carded)


Atom 20 20 20 27 Pee Wee 7 6 5 5

Pee Wee 15 17 19 14 Bantam 5 6 6 6

Bantam 13 12 15 16 Midget 8 5 5 5

Midget 15 18 16 16 TOTAL 20 17 16 16

TOTAL 63 67 70 73

Vancouver Island (Recreational) Vancouver Island (Carded)


Atom 6 7 5 2 Pee Wee 1 0 1 0



Midget 5 7 10 8 TOTAL 6 4 4 2

TOTAL 28 25 26 22

47

Registration Figures – By MHA and District (2014-15 to 2017-18)

District Association 2015-2016 Total Female Players



3 Year Growth %

EK Canal Flats MHA 0 1 0 0%

EK Cranbrook MHA 20 28 27 35%

EK Creston Valley MHA 11 10 13 18%

EK Elk Valley MHA 28 26 22 -21%

EK Fernie MHA 16 10 10 -38%

EK Golden MHA 15 12 13 -13%

EK Kimberley MHA 16 22 28 75%

EK Windermere Valley 39 63 45 15%

LM Abbotsford Female MHA 152 149 151 -1%

LM Langley Girls IHA 115 107 124 8%

LM Meadow Ridge Female 110 154 174 58%

LM North Shore Female IHA 249 252 248 0%

LM Richmond Girls IHA 263 256 228 -13%

LM Surrey Female IHA 188 198 212 13%

LM Tri -Cities Female IHA 228 220 246 8%

LM Vancouver Female IHA 195 237 284 46%

LM Abbotsford MHA 11 17 22 100%

LM Aldergrove MHA 9 15 17 89%

LM Arbutus Club MHA 12 10 8 -33%

LM Burnaby MHA 75 83 83 11%

LM Burnaby Winter Club 8 7 8 0%

LM Chilliwack MHA 60 57 61 2%

LM Cloverdale MHA 23 25 29 26%

LM Coquitlam MHA 14 15 11 -21%

LM Hollyburn CC MHA 2 2 4 100%

LM Hope MHA 13 10 7 -46%

LM Langley MHA 15 12 11 -27%

LM Mission MHA 12 16 13 8%

LM New Westminster MHA 13 14 13 0%

LM North Delta MHA 24 26 27 13%

LM North Shore Winter Club 91 90 77 -15%

LM North Vancouver MHA 5 7 2 -60%

LM Port Coquitlam MHA 6 15 19 217%

LM Port Moody MHA 7 12 18 157%

LM Richmond MHA 12 15 16 33%

LM Ridge Meadows MHA 30 22 25 -17%

48

LM Seafair MHA 34 22 24 -29%

LM Semiahmoo MHA 32 19 26 -19%

LM South Delta MHA 74 91 130 76%

LM Squamish MHA 18 21 22 22%

LM Sunshine Coast 14 20 22 57%

LM Surrey MHA 19 24 18 -5%

LM Vancouver MHA 20 12 8 -60%

LM Vancouver Thunderbird 27 27 23 -15%

LM West Vancouver 13 14 18 38%

LM Whistler MHA 17 16 14 -18%

NC 100 Mile House MHA 27 69 49 81%

NC MacKenzie MHA 31 31 36 16%

NC McBride MHA 3 0 0 -100%

NC Prince George MHA 122 115 120 -2%

NC Quesnel MHA 55 58 63 15%

NC Valemount MHA 16 11 13 -19%

NC Williams Lake MHA 101 111 120 19%

NEY Chetwynd MHA 40 41 38 -5%

NEY Clearview MHA 38 34 45 18%

NEY Dawson City MHA 22 18 18 -18%

NEY Dawson Creek MHA 61 64 64 5%

NEY Faro MHA 15 12 0 -100%

NEY Fort Nelson MHA 34 39 55 62%

NEY Fort St John MHA 49 64 67 37%

NEY Haines Junction MHA 18 20 22 22%

NEY Hudson's Hope MHA 10 12 11 10%

NEY Peace River District 0 0 42 42%

NEY Taylor MHA 7 13 19 171%

NEY Teslin MHA 5 9 7 40%

NEY Tumbler Ridge MHA 5 10 13 160%

NEY Watson Lake MHA 0 1 2 50%

NEY Whitehorse MHA 48 73 57 19%

NEY Total 352 410 460 31%

NW Burns Lake MHA 18 34 47 161%

NW Fort St James MHA 14 18 19 36%

NW Fraser Lake MHA 32 18 26 -19%

NW Hazelton MHA 20 22 30 50%

NW Houston MHA 20 14 10 -50%

NW Kitimat MHA 11 12 16 45%

49

NW Prince Rupert MHA 33 33 36 9%

NW Smithers MHA 29 26 42 45%

NW Stewart MHA 5 3 4 -20%

NW Stikine MHA 13 8 13 0%

NW Terrace MHA 44 28 22 -50%

NW Vanderhoof MHA 48 52 55 15%

OK Chase MHA 29 28 8 -72%

OK Clearwater MHA 20 25 34 70%

OK Greater Vernon MHA 59 49 77 31%

OK Kamloops MHA 199 187 215 8%

OK Kelowna MHA 183 182 193 5%

OK Lillooet MHA 61 52 50 -18%

OK Logan Lake MHA 9 10 7 -22%

OK Lumby MHA 28 41 43 54%

OK Merritt MHA 75 73 54 -28%

OK North Okanagan MHA 19 17 14 -26%

OK Penticton MHA 112 153 142 27%

OK Princeton MHA 19 16 11 -42%

OK Revelstoke MHA 5 10 11 120%

OK Salmon Arm MHA 42 64 51 21%

OK Sicamous MHA 9 5 5 -44%

OK South Okanagan MHA 50 24 22 -56%

OK Summerland MHA 20 15 13 -35%

OK Thompson Cariboo MHA 35 34 29 -17%

OK West Kelowna MHA 28 25 21 -25%

OK Winfield MHA 33 35 35 6%

VI Alberni Valley MHA 32 40 53 66%

VI Campbell River MHA 112 100 100 -11%

VI Comox Valley MHA 64 40 36 -44%

VI Cowichan Valley MHA 79 61 73 -8%

VI Gold River MHA 13 11 7 -46%

VI Juan de Fuca MHA 121 116 85 -30%

VI Kerry Park MHA 20 32 26 30%

VI Lake Cowichan MHA 21 14 13 -38%

VI Nanaimo MHA 95 108 91 -4%

VI Oceanside MHA 99 87 75 -24%

VI Peninsula MHA 59 57 53 -10%

VI Powell River MHA 58 60 55 -5%

VI Saanich MHA 37 54 71 92%

50

VI Sooke MHA 75 51 43 -43%

VI Tri Port MHA 83 92 84 1%

VI Victoria MHA 88 44 34 -61%

VI Victoria Racquet Club 10 9 9 -10%

WK Boundary 13 15 14 8%

WK Castlegar MHA 45 35 19 -58%

WK Grand Forks MHA 14 16 20 43%

WK Greater Trail MHA 38 53 60 58%

WK Kaslo MHA 8 4 6 -25%

WK Nakusp MHA 12 11 12 0%

WK Nelson MHA 12 16 19 58%

Total 5,592 5,725 5,875 5%

51

Registration Charts – By District (2014-15 to 2017-18)

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

Canal FlatsMHA

CranbrookMHA

Creston ValleyMHA

Elk ValleyMHA

Fernie MHA Golden MHA KimberleyMHA

WindermereValley

East Kootenay

2015-2016 Total Female Players 2016-2017 Total Female Players 2017-2018 Total Female Players

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

Boundary Castlegar MHA Grand ForksMHA

Greater TrailMHA

Kaslo MHA Nakusp MHA Nelson MHA

West Kootenay


52

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

AbbotsfordFemale MHA

Langley GirlsIHA

Meadow RidgeFemale

North ShoreFemale IHA

Richmond GirlsIHA

Surrey FemaleIHA

Tri -CitiesFemale IHA

VancouverFemale IHA

Lower Mainland (Female)


020406080

100120140

Lower Mainland (Integrated)


53

020406080

100120140

100 Mile HouseMHA

MacKenzie MHA McBride MHA Prince GeorgeMHA

Quesnel MHA Valemount MHA Williams LakeMHA

North Central


01020304050607080

North East/Yukon


0102030405060

North West


54

0

50

100

150

200

250

Okanagan


0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

Vancouver Island


55

Registration Figures – Other Hockey Canada Members (2014-15 to 2017-18)

2014-15 2014-16 2016-17 % Growth

BC 8,034 8,145 8,469 5%

AB 9,807 10,280 11,233 14%

SK 5,015 5,121 5,046 1%

MB 5,368 5,598 5,838 8%

ON 41,830 39,838 39,329 -6%

QC 6,517 6,654 6,816 4%

NB 2,482 2,362 2,643 7%

NS 3,227 3,438 3,424 6%

PEI 1,156 1,182 1,245 8%

NL 1,945 1,976 2,169 11%

NORTH 440 489 538 20% Average 7%

-10%

-5%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

-

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

BC AB SK MB ON QC NB NS PEI NL NORTH

Female Growth by Branch

2014-15 2014-16 2016-17 % Growth

56

APPENDIX D – BRANCH

COMPARISON

57

Hockey Canada Branch Comparison

Branch # of Female

Players (Minor)*

# of Female Players

(Senior)*

# of Female Officials*

# of Female Coaches*

# of Midget AAA Teams

# of Jr Teams

# of Academies

Female Hockey

Associations?

BC 5,628 2,382 388 299 5 1 4 Yes

Alberta 8,034 2,030 381 786 6 9 3 Yes

Saskatchewan 4,571 384 258 187 8 0 0 Yes

Manitoba 4,027 1,148 156 246 8 7 3 No

Ontario (HNO, OHF, HEO)

31,066 1,350 810 2,578 24 20 2 Yes

Quebec 5,729 305 137 326 8 8 0 Yes

New Brunswick

1,609 263 69 92 3 0 0 Yes

Nova Scotia 2,733 677 64 153 4 0 1 Yes

Prince Edward Island

1,037 197 42 41 4 0 1 No

Newfoundland & Labrador

1,591 126 58 45 2 0 0 No

North 309 117 0 33 0 0 0 No

BC Hockey Female Hockey Report Hockey Programming...Hockey Canada, Hockey Alberta, and Hockey Nova...

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