Dear Parents,
We understand that every family wants the best environment for their child’s development, both on and off the ice. Recently, we’ve become aware that some families are considering leaving our sanctioned hockey program to join unsanctioned, or “outlaw,” leagues.
Before making a decision, we want to share a few key points to ensure you're fully informed:
1. Player Safety and Standards Sanctioned leagues are governed by recognized bodies (like Hockey Canada or USA Hockey) that enforce strict policies on coaching certification, concussion protocols, insurance, and player safety. Outlaw leagues often do not follow these same standards or may lack oversight.
2. Development Pathways Participation in sanctioned leagues allows players to access elite programs, representative teams, and future opportunities in higher-level hockey (e.g., AAA, Junior, collegiate). Moving to an outlaw league may limit or block these options, as players can become ineligible for return or advancement in sanctioned programs.
3. Insurance and Risk Our league provides full insurance coverage for players and volunteers through our governing body. Outlaw leagues may not offer equivalent protection, which can expose families to financial and legal risk in the event of injury.
4. Community and Support We are proud of the inclusive, community-driven hockey culture we've built — with certified coaches, proven development plans, and strong support for players at all levels. We believe in long-term growth over short-term gain and are always open to feedback on how we can improve.
We know how much you care about your child’s hockey experience — their growth, their happiness, and their opportunity to thrive. Lately, we’ve heard that some families are considering moving from our sanctioned program to an unsanctioned or "outlaw" league. We understand the appeal: promises of more ice time, less travel, or faster competition. But before you make a decision, we want to ensure you have the full picture.
We also know these decisions aren’t always easy, and we respect your right to choose what’s best for your family. If you have any questions or concerns, we invite you to speak with us directly. We’re happy to meet, listen, and provide any additional information you need to make the most informed choice possible. Thank you for being a part of our hockey community.
Warm regards,
Kevin Miller
President
Ayr Minor Hockey Association