As the snow begins to melt and the smell of spring is in the air, many parents look to register their children in programs for the summer months. Street Hockey, appropriately described by Toronto Star writer Mitch Potter as, “the recessive gene that makes us Canadian... the precise point on the genetic double-helix spiral that equates road hockey with spontaneous, innocent fun...a truly cultural phenomenon that harkens to Canadians on the street and their memories of childhood."

The Ontario Ball Hockey Association (OBHA) has its "GET OFF THE STREET" program for kids. The great Canadian game of street hockey we all played as children has moved indoors and is one of the fastest growing amateur sports in the great province of Ontario, and we all know, "Ball Hockey is... A Game Anyone Can Play" and a league is in your neighborhood.

The program was created to encourage kids of all ages to "GET OFF THE STREET" and participate in a local ball hockey program. The leagues are administered by local parents and are non-profit. The league administrators encourage participation and a chance to play amongst friends, meet new people and learn how to communicate and deal with real life situations on how to be a part of a team and to work towards a common goal. The "GET OFF THE STREET" program is interested in developing ball hockey programs throughout Ontario for all age groups from Tyke (6-7 year olds) to Junior (16-17 year olds).

Who can play? If you can walk you can play, it is "A Game Anyone Can Play!" In this day and age when disposable income is at a premium the game of ball hockey is an affordable and fun way to get the kids out to participate and meet people.

What equipment is required? CSA approved gloves; CSA helmets with a full facial shield; running shoes and a stick are mandatory. We do recommend that kids wear athletic cup, elbow pads, kneepads and shin guards. We encourage groups of individuals to sign up and play our sport with their friends or register as individuals to meet and make new friends.

The Minor program for the most part is recreational and encourages a fun and enjoyment for all of its participants. The program does offer a more competitive environment for those who are inclined for provincial, national and international participation. Minor hockey teams are encouraged to register their players in a dry land version of their sport.

For more information, please visit the web site at www.ontarioballhockey.ca or e-mail us at IAM@ontarioballhockey.CA or phone us at 905 738 3320.