Suggested message that may used as deemed beneficial. Please consider having this announced before games, posted in arenas and added to web sites and publications. Thank you and have a great season!

Welcome to the game - "It's a New Game":

We draw your attention to a very important change in the standards of play that are in effect throughout Hockey Canada and the Ontario Women's Hockey Association.

These changes will enhance player opportunities for skill development at all levels of play, with the goal of providing a positive hockey experience for all involved.

The implementation of the new standard of play and rules emphasis initiative places the focus squarely on the building blocks of the game: skating, puck possession and proper body positioning.

There will be a strict enforcement of restraining fouls - hooking, holding, tripping and interference - and stick fouls - slashing and cross-checking - all of which can be classified as any infraction which impedes the progress of the offensive player.

We urge all teams and fans to provide encouragement and support to the players on both teams and to respect the on-ice officials as they do their best to learn and adapt to these very different standards that will have a very positive impact.

More information is available on the OWHA web site at www.owha.on.ca.

Thanks and enjoy the game!

OWHA VALUES
Fair Play, Fun, Excellence, Good Citizenship,
Integrity & honesty, Equity.

OWHA MISSION
Through a provincially unified, collective voice, the OWHA promotes, provides and develops opportunities for girls and women to play female hockey in Ontario.