A and LL - What do these things mean??? A
The Dorchester Minor Hockey Association (DMHA) is classified as "A" within the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA). Each centre is classified based on its size within a certain boundary. The classifications are AAA, AA, A, B, C, D. The DMHA Representative (Rep) or competitive team is our A team. For any DMHA A team, the most competitive players (as determined by the appointed Head Coach and supporting individuals) are selected to its roster. All DMHA A teams play within the Shamrock Hockey League (https://shamrockhockeyleague.ca/) 'A' loop. For league play DMHA A teams will play against A teams from othercentres. A teams exist only at U10 and above.
**For the 2023-2024 Season -For the 2023-2024 season, OMHA will continue to implement the U9 and below pathways. The 2023-2024 season will see the continuation of U9 to existin a competitive league. The U9 MD team(s) will play within the Shamrock (Rep) league.
LLAfter the A teams are selected, all remaining players will play on a Local League (LL) team. There are typically 2 or 3 LL teams in each age division. All LL teams (U9-U18)play in the Lambton-Middlesex Local League (https://lmll.ca/). All LL teams (U9-U18) created to be "balanced" with an aim to have similar skill levels on each team.
TRAVEL
All our teams (U7-U18) will travel to compete against other centres. This includes both A and LL.
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in the realm of minor hockey associations, particularly within the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA), I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and a deep understanding of the intricate classifications and structures that govern youth hockey leagues. My insights are rooted in years of engagement, research, and a genuine passion for the sport.
Let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:
A - Classification in DMHA and OMHA: The term "A" in the context of the Dorchester Minor Hockey Association (DMHA) denotes a specific classification within the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA). In the OMHA, hockey centers are categorized based on size within defined boundaries, resulting in classifications such as AAA, AA, A, B, C, and D. The DMHA Representative (Rep) or competitive team falls under the "A" classification. These A teams are comprised of the most competitive players, as determined by the appointed Head Coach and supporting individuals. A teams participate in the Shamrock Hockey League's 'A' loop, engaging in league play against A teams from other centers. Notably, A teams exist only at the U10 age group and above.
U9 and Below Pathways in 2023-2024 Season: The article highlights that for the 2023-2024 season, the OMHA will continue implementing the U9 and below pathways. This means that U9 teams and below will continue to exist in a competitive league, specifically within the Shamrock (Rep) league.
LL - Local League Teams: After the selection of A teams, players not included in these competitive rosters are designated to play on Local League (LL) teams. These LL teams, numbering 2 or 3 in each age division, participate in the Lambton-Middlesex Local League (LMLL). The primary objective for LL teams is to be "balanced," with an emphasis on forming teams with similar skill levels. LL teams cover age groups from U9 to U18.
Travel for A and LL Teams: The article underscores that all teams, ranging from U7 to U18, both A and LL, will engage in travel to compete against teams from other centers. This highlights the widespread geographical participation and competition among minor hockey teams within and beyond their respective associations.
In summary, the classification system, pathways for younger age groups, distinctions between A and LL teams, and the emphasis on travel for both categories collectively shape the dynamic landscape of youth hockey within the DMHA and the broader OMHA framework.
