The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League held its annual general meeting earlier in June in Nipawin. New league president Bill Chow had a chance to introduce himself to the teams and take part in his first official function with other league dignitaries.
It is reported that many different ideas were discussed around the table, and Chow came away impressed with the two days of meetings.
"We have identified some issues, from the contributions of the coaches, presidents and governors and other representatives of the SJHL's 12 franchises, and I feel as if we have formulated ideas to make positive and progressive change," Chow said. "One item identified is that not all of our players write their exams to become eligible to be identified for opportunities to further advance their education and hockey opportunities either in Canada or in the United States."
Plans are being formulated to ensure players that are eligible will write the appropriate exams to allow them to have as many opportunities to further themselves with their education and hockey opportunities."
Amongst the highlights were host venues being officially announced for both the Showcase and the SJHL Hall of Fame ceremonies.
The Estevan Bruins will show off their brand new arena, Spectra Place, to the league, its fans and scouts on the weekend of Oct. 14, as they will be the host team for the annual Showcase. The event, which was brought back to life by the Battlefords North Stars and the board two seasons ago features all 12 teams playing two games each over a three-day span allowing scouts to watch all players at once and get a good chance at speaking to them and evaluating them under one roof.
It was also made know the Yorkton Terriers will host the 2011 SJHL Hall of Fame weekend.The date of the Hall of Fame Game will be Nov. 18 with the induction ceremony happening the next night. This will be the third year in which the SJHL has dipped into its past to remember those who have helped contribute to make the league one of the best junior A league's in Canada.
The league is also going to investigate moving its annual general meeting and holding it in conjunction with the Saskatchewan Hockey Association. This will provide all members present opportunities to discuss business that would affect all involved.
Chow thanked the members of the 12 franchises that attended the AGM for their positive contributions that will be worked on in the coming year. Chow believes it is also important to recognize the contribution of the coaches of the 12 teams of the SJHL at the meetings. "The coaches are the faces of our league," Chow states. "Without them, and their ideas, the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League would not be one of the best Junior A leagues in Canada."
