THUNDER BAY, Ont. – Hockey Northwestern Ontario (HNO) in conjunction with the Superior International Junior Hockey League (SIJHL) announced Tuesday the two groups have partnered on a three-year agreement to host the HNO under-15 hockey camp commencing May 10-12, 2019 in Thunder Bay.
Sixty-eight athletes 2004 and 2005-born competitors that are registered players within the confines of Hockey Northwestern Ontario for the 2018-19 season will have the opportunity to attend the camp.
The camp will be open to any players that meet that criteria and registration can be done here.
This camp also provides a great opportunity for coaches who are looking to acquire Professional Development Points in maintaining their certification and/or want to develop their skill and knowledge working along side SIJHL coaches.
Coaching spots are limited and will be upon selection basis. Interested coaches can apply here.
The three-day event will serve as development camp with an introduction to Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence programming and HNO’s under-16 team as well as an opportunity for the SIJHL’s coaches to work with the next generation of junior players.
It will also provide the league an opportunity to speak with parents and players about what the SIJHL has to offer and the opportunities that exist in northwestern Ontario for junior A hockey.
“The partnership between HNO and the SIJHL will create a unique opportunity to enhance player development and allow for the SIJHL to increase its awareness with up and coming players from northwestern Ontario,” offered Bryan Graham, SIJHL commissioner.
Players will participate in on-ice activaties that include skill sessions, practices and games along with off-ice sessions and seminars.
There will also be a presentation by the SIJHL for athletes and parents and each player will receive an evaluation summary at the conclusion of the camp.
“This camp provides an opportunity for players in bantam and those graduating on to midget to learn about Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence and how that process works, while having the opportunity to learn from SIJHL coaches and what it will take to pursue opportunities in Junior hockey in the future,” added HNO technical director Jim Fetter.