The History of Stanley Stick
| A Short History of Stanley Stick Hockey Association It all started in 1975 with the idea of having young players receive more ice time but with a different perspective. Having fun and learning the skills for the first few years were the original pillars for the beginning of SSHA. Players as young as 4 years old were introduced to the sport - with a stick and not just skating. And scoring, who needs it when you don't emphasize winning? Children win by simply playing and trying hard. For a non-competitive league, they supply the competition themselves. Due to this informal nature or "out-of-the-box" thinking, there was no name appointed early on so the organization was immediately branded as an outlaw league by the Ontario Hockey Association. The Association Launched with 40 players and four original teams (3 from Guelph, 1 from Acton) and play was held at U of G arena where ice time was booked in 1.5 hour segments, hence the origin of the split practice/game format. Since the very first game in 1975, this format of playing hockey has been a hit with parents too as the league now has 26 teams and a Learn To Skate program. Currently, over 450 players enjoy Stanley Stick every week during the fall/winter months. SSHA will continue to teach young boys and girls the proper skills of the game while offering an environment that promotes fun, respect and team play. |  |
Original SSHA Executive in 1975
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