On December 17, 2024, the
Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF)
confirmed a major change in Ontario’s minor hockey system: the introduction of
Open
Borders at the U10 age group and above. This change, effective next season,
gives players the freedom to join any team across the province at all levels,
from to BB to AAA. For the
Upper York Admirals Minor Hockey Association
(UYMHA)—a newly formed representative centre made up of the
East Gwillimbury and
Georgina Minor Hockey Associations—this shift represents both an
opportunity and a challenge.
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OHF Announcement: https://ohf.on.ca/player-movement/
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OHF FAQs: https://ohf.on.ca/player-movement-faqs/
What Does Open Borders Mean for Upper York?
The OHF's Open Borders initiative means that players in
East Gwillimbury and
Georgina are no longer restricted to playing within their local associations. Players now have the freedom to join teams from outside the area, which, while offering increased flexibility, also creates a competitive landscape that could impact associations like ours. Larger centres, with bigger player pools and more resources, will likely attract more attention as families seek what they perceive as more competitive opportunities.
This is where the challenge lies for the
Upper York Admirals—how do we maintain the strength of our local teams and ensure that hockey in our community continues to thrive in the face of these changes?
Why Players Should Choose to Stay with Upper York
While many players may consider moving to bigger centres in search of more opportunities, we believe there are strong reasons to stay with the Upper York Admirals and continue to build the future of hockey right here in our community.
1. Preserving the Spirit of Hometown Hockey
As an organization, we are committed to preserving the rich tradition of
hometown hockey. For young athletes, playing for your local team means more than just representing your town—it means being part of a close-knit community where everyone knows each other. It's about playing alongside friends and classmates and creating lifelong memories. Hockey isn't just about competition; it's about developing bonds that last long after the final whistle.
2. Personalized Development and Strong Coaching
One of the key reasons players should stay with the
Upper York Admirals is the focus we place on developing players at every level. The Open Borders initiative may create new opportunities for players to move, but it also opens the door for us to bring in talented players who want to be part of something special. Our commitment to strong, consistent coaching means that players will get the attention and development they need to succeed. We will work with experienced, dedicated coaches who focus not just on winning, but on developing well-rounded, skilled athletes.
3. Staying Close to Home and Building Local Rivalries
Being part of a local hockey association means you have the chance to compete against teams from neighboring communities, building rivalries that make the game even more exciting. The importance of local competition cannot be overstated—it fosters a sense of pride in your community and helps players stay connected to their roots. Here in Upper York, we believe in the power of local rivalries to inspire players to push themselves harder and give their best for their community.
4. Supporting the Growth of Local Hockey
The Open Borders initiative presents a challenge, but it also provides an opportunity for the
Upper York Admirals to grow and adapt. We know that associations may face difficulties in attracting and retaining players, but by staying local, you contribute to the sustainability of hockey in our community. Supporting your local team means helping to build a stronger, more competitive program that can thrive under the Open Borders system.
5. Long-Term Commitment and Stability
Joining a local team means investing in long-term development, not just a single season or tryout. Players who stay with the
Upper York Admirals will have the chance to grow with their teammates, learning the value of hard work, consistency, and team commitment. Our program is built on stability—players can expect a smooth, supportive environment for growth, as we prioritize the development of our players over the long term. Switching teams year after year can be disruptive and prevent players from reaching their full potential. By staying with Upper York, players can enjoy continuity and stability, which is critical for success both on and off the ice.
Rising to the Challenge
The Open Borders change is not something we can ignore, and we know it will present challenges for newer associations like ours. However, we believe in the strength of our community and our program. We are committed to ensuring that hockey remains accessible to all local players, while continuing to offer opportunities for growth and development. Staying with the
Upper York Admirals is about more than just playing hockey—it's about being part of a community, supporting local talent, and ensuring the future of hockey in
East Gwillimbury and
Georgina. That future is why we starting the Upper York Admirals pilot two years ago and it is one that we remain committed to.
By choosing to stay local, players will continue to receive high-quality coaching, the chance to develop within a community-oriented program, and the opportunity to build lifelong friendships. Together, we can make sure that
hometown hockey thrives, even in a changing landscape.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward in this new era of hockey, the
Upper York Admirals are ready to rise to the challenge of Open Borders. Our commitment to developing top-tier athletes, preserving the spirit of community, and providing a supportive environment for our players will ensure that we remain a strong and competitive association. We may face challenges, but we also see incredible opportunities for growth, and we invite all players in
East Gwillimbury and
Georgina to continue joining us in building the future of hockey
right here at home.
Stay with the Upper York Admirals. Stay local. Stay strong.