Hockey leaders from across the country gathered on the weekend for the Hockey Canada Winter Congress and Annual Meeting, closing the book on the 2020-21 season and helping set the game’s direction for the future.

The event, which included the Hockey Canada Board of Directors, Life Patrons, representation from all 13 Members and leadership from the national organization, was held virtually for the second year in a row due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Friday featured the Member Forum, which included important presentations on Hockey Canada’s long-term strategic plan, and growth and retention plan, as well as reports from task teams and committees that have been vital to successfully navigating the effects of the pandemic.

During the Annual Meeting on Saturday, a number of rule changes were approved for the 2022-23 season, including:

• Leagues at the U18 AAA, junior and senior levels have the option to enact hybrid and no-change icing.
• A coach or captain may designate any player to take a penalty shot.
• Injured players may stand on the bench if they are on the game report and wearing the minimum protective equipment.
• Additions and changes to minor penalties – charging, tripping, butt-ending and spearing.

The next assembly of Canada’s hockey leadership will take place at the Hockey Canada Spring Congress, scheduled for June 2022.