We hope to shed light on the seemingly ever changing U9 and U8 age groups as there are a lot of details going around and we believe it has adding some confusion.
Starting from the beginning, Shamrock has followed the directions from OMHA and Hockey Canada to change U9 division (Novice) from a representative division (REP and AE or Second Tier now) to a recreational division (Local League / House League). This means that there will no longer be an OMHA title for the U9 age group.
As an interim this year only, Shamrock will hold an MD (recreational) division for U9 age group. Next year U9 will become a local league age group and run under the Four Countries envelope. This decision has sparked many discussions at all the involved centres regarding how this will play out for their programming. Shamrock is holding a meeting on the 12th of September and will finalize discussions about these groups. Updates will be made as soon as they have been finalized on the web page update and an e-mail to all parents of the age groups involved.
As it stands currently, PMHA’s direction is to maintain U9 and U8 programming separately. Tryout schedules and development skates have all been placed on the website so please review in order to find out what state your players will be attending.
We apologize for the lack of communication with regard to these age groups but due to the nature of the changing landscape throughout all the centres, we wanted to bring you the most current and accurate information.
Thanks
PMHA Board