Collaboration, innovation and resiliency are key buzz words that have become a part of the “new normal”. They fit within many aspects of society and we navigate a changing world. Ever since Hockey Canada’s announcement of putting hockey on pause in March, collective efforts have been made to get the game of hockey back in a safe, inclusive manner. The response received from associations, districts, leagues, and teams, on what hockey means to their community has been overwhelmingly positive.
Through surveys, research and feedback from BC Hockey members and participants, the results signify that people are registering for hockey at nearly the same rate they have been in years past, and in several associations, the numbers are ahead of previous seasons. There is no doubt that Covid-19 has altered many lives, families believe that sports are a key component in what they value. The data shows that hockey is an integral part of daily life.
What we have seen has been amazing, un-precedented and uplifting. The collective collaboration from minor hockey associations, teams, leagues, provincial partners and Hockey Canada has shown that strength in numbers with a common goal, shows the true test of commitment to our great game”, said BC Hockey Chair of the Board Bill Greene. “There has been more sharing of ideas among associations, better communication among our diverse districts and an open-ness to listening to others. We have been led by Dr. Bonnie Henry and her staff who have the well-being of citizens top of mind. Sports are an integral part of our society – for friendship, physical literacy, engagement and fun among many other reasons why we work to provide opportunities to participate in hockey.
Over the course of the last five months, BC Hockey along with member partners, have seen incredible efforts from so many people involved to work together, share and create programming to get athletes back involved in sports with creative alternatives in order to be active, healthy and have some fun participating in hockey activities. The message from the BC Hockey Board of Directors, including a special address to the membership from Bill Greene, has been clear – a connected, collaborative approach on working together in unison among all levels of amateur hockey is the pathway to success.
There is plenty of work ahead, to ensure the safety of participants is adhered to. There is plenty of work ahead to ensure the hockey community is inclusive and welcoming.
Hockey will look different moving forward, but the overwhelming response is that when change occurs, some organic positives come out of crisis management. What we have seen from our districts, leagues, associations, government partners all working together has been an incredible step forward for amateur hockey in British Columbia and Yukon. There have been many examples on how associations have been working together on sharing their experiences with planning, lobbying and strategizing. BC Hockey is proud of the work put forth from our members and elated and encouraged with the resiliency of our participants and our commitment to you is to: Lead, Develop and Promote Lifelong Hockey Experiences.