News Release
May 7, 2013
For Immediate Release
CALGARY, ALTA – Following a provincial announcement made by Hockey Alberta, Hockey Calgary will adopt the recommendations approved by the Hockey Alberta Board relating to the removal of body checking from the Pee Wee level starting in 2013-2014 season
“Last year our board voted in favour of eliminating body checking at the Pee Wee level. We are happy Hockey Alberta took a stance and made a provincial wide decision to make our game safer,” said Christina Rogers, manager, communications, Hockey Calgary.
After a majority vote at Hockey Calgary ‘s AGM on June 23, 2012, it was decided body checking would remain in the game at the Pee Wee level. Following that vote, the Hockey Calgary membership voted in favour of Hockey Calgary working with Hockey Alberta to make the delay province wide.
“We are pleased with the decision Hockey Alberta made today as studies show children who body check at the Pee Wee level are three times more likely to suffer from a concussion or major injury. We want the game to be fun and children to be put in a safe environment where they can develop and focus on their skills,” said Rogers.
Currently, Quebec does not permit body checking at the Pee Wee level and introduces it in bantam. Ontario Minor Hockey Association has taken body checking out of all levels for their House League and House League Select programs. BC has also removed body checking in various regions for their Recreation Leagues. USA Hockey has made a national decision to not allow body checking, during games, at the Pee Wee level and introduced it in bantam as of the 2010/2011 Season.
“Hockey Calgary is proud to be a part of a provincial branch who knows the importance of improving child safety. We want the game of hockey to continue to grow and we believe by eliminating body checking at the Pee Wee level, the game will become more appealing to families,” said Rogers.
For more information about the provincial decision, please visit www.hockeyalberta.ca
For more information about the facts and findings on body checking at the Pee Wee level please visit our Body Checking Page. This page was developed back in 2012 by our body checking review committee after their recommendation to the Board of Directors to remove body checking from Pee Wee.
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For more information, please contact:
Christina Rogers
Manager, Communications
Hockey Calgary
Cell: 403.354.4407
Email: christina@hockeycalgary.com