Thank you to everyone who has provided feedback regarding the recently announced Female Program changes for the 2026-27 Yellowknife Minor Hockey season.
Since sharing this information, we have heard concerns from several parents, coaches and other members of our hockey community. People have brought forward the need for clarity around the survey that was sent out on May 11th, 2026, regarding preferences for the Female Programs. We appreciate the time and effort taken to share perspectives, and it is clear that there were misunderstandings around the context and purpose of the survey, as well as the intent of the results being to inform the association of desires of the membership in planning for the upcoming hockey season.
We want to be clear: female programming is not being removed. YKMHA remains committed to supporting and growing female hockey opportunities in Yellowknife.
To ensure members have a clear understanding of the options being offered, YKMHA will publish a Female Program Options Overview on Friday, June 26th. This document will outline the potential female hockey pathways being offered for the 2026-27 season, which will include the option to select the Female Travel Model or Female Development Model at time of registration.
The purpose of sharing these options is to provide full transparency regarding the programs that may be offered and the factors that will be considered in determining final program delivery.
The Board's objective is to ensure that members understand:
YKMHA is proud of the continued growth of female hockey in Yellowknife. Female players now represent approximately one-third of our membership, with 175 female players participating during the 2025-26 season. This growth reflects the dedication of our players, families, coaches, volunteers, and the broader hockey community.
We are committed to providing meaningful opportunities for female athletes at all levels of participation and competition, while ensuring that decisions are made in a transparent and sustainable manner.
Additional information regarding female program options and registration pathways will be shared on Friday, June 26.
Thank you for your continued support of female hockey and Yellowknife Minor Hockey.
Sincerely,
YKMHA Executive