By Sue Vine,
President, West Hill Minor Hockey Association
Following our October article regarding the loss of critical ice time at Heron Park Arena, we’re pleased to share that the issue has been resolved, thanks to the strength of our community, the support of the CCRA, and our new Ward 25 City Councillor, Neethan Shan.
After concerns were raised publicly, many families and community members reached out directly to the city, the ombudsman, and to Councillor Shan. Your voices were heard loud and clear. Nearly everyone we spoke with was aware of the situation, and that collective awareness made a difference.
With the city’s cooperation, and a big, grateful thank you to city staff for their support and responsiveness, we were able to relocate all Malvern games back to Heron Park Arena, allowing our players and families to remain in their home rink.
The city also worked with us on our Malvern ice contract. While we were initially expected to pay for ice we were no longer using, those costs were waived for this season, easing a significant financial burden on our association.
Looking ahead, our application for the upcoming season has already been submitted to the city, and we are hopeful for a smoother start to hockey at West Hill next year. After several challenging seasons since Covid, when hockey registrations declined across the city, this outcome is an encouraging reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together to support grassroots sport.
West Hill Minor Hockey has called Heron Park Arena home for more than 70 years, and we remain committed to growing the game, supporting local families, and building a positive, inclusive hockey environment. We’re also working on some exciting initiatives for the season ahead.
A huge thank you to our families, volunteers and community members for standing with us. This is what community hockey is all about!