WMHA is pleased to share a significant and positive update
with our membership as planning continues for the 2026–2027 hockey season.
Through extensive collaboration with the City of Woodstock, City staff, and members of the Association, WMHA has successfully secured additional ice availability through creative scheduling solutions. This progress represents an important step forward in addressing long-standing ice constraints and allows the Association to expand competitive opportunities for our players.
As a result,
WMHA will now be offering B/BB teams at all age groups U10 and above for the 2026–2027 season:
- U10
- U11
- U12
- U13
- U14
- U15
- U18
U9 and below will remain consistent with this season, as per OHF policies.
This marks a meaningful improvement in programming and ensures that players at every stage of development have access to a B/BB pathway within Woodstock.
Ice Scheduling & Program Balance
This expansion has been made possible by maximizing an already constrained ice schedule. To accommodate the additional teams while maintaining program quality, WMHA will be utilizing:
- Earlier weekday ice slots (4:15 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.) made available by the City
- Earlier weekend start times to ensure sufficient home game availability
While we recognize this is not a perfect solution, it represents a strong interim step as we continue to advocate for expanded ice infrastructure, including the long-term need for an additional arena in Woodstock.
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A/AA teams will continue to receive sufficient ice allocations to remain competitive within the Alliance Seeded divisions, consistent with the current season
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B/BB teams will be scheduled for one weekly practice, with additional ice added wherever availability allows
These decisions were made with careful consideration of the needs of all teams. WMHA currently supports 43 existing teams, and scheduling continues to be balanced to ensure fairness, feasibility, and sustainability across the entire Association.
OHF Approval Confirmed
WMHA has also received formal approval from the Ontario Hockey Federation for the expanded travel team structure for the 2026–2027 season. This approval confirms that B/BB teams at all age groups from U10 through U18 are sanctioned for the upcoming season.
Next Steps: Coaching Applications & Evaluations
All B/BB teams from U10 to U18 will be contingent on:
- A qualified Head Coach applying and being approved by the hiring committee
- Sufficient player participation during Spring evaluations
Head Coach applications can be submitted through the “Coaches Corner” section of the Woodstock Minor Hockey website. Interviews will be scheduled as soon as possible, with coaching selections announced following the February 25th Board meeting.
B/BB evaluations will take place in early May, in accordance with the OHF seasonal schedule. Registration will be completed through Spordle, consistent with last season. Evaluation schedules will be posted on the WMHA website once finalized.
Details regarding import classification limits for the 2026–2027 season are still under review by the WMHA Board and will be communicated prior to the start of evaluations.
Looking Ahead
This progress reflects the result of persistent collaboration, creative problem-solving, and a shared commitment to youth hockey in Woodstock. WMHA would like to thank City officials and staff, volunteers, and Association members who continue to support and advocate for the growth of hockey in our community.
We are proud of this step forward and look to build on this momentum as we prepare for an exciting and expanded 2026-2027 season.