SHA Mandate Results in Loss of CMHA AA Program

SHA confirmed that the number of AA programs around Saskatoon must be reduced to 2 instead of 3 (ie. CMHA, MMHA & Warman). This recommendation was originally tabled in January at SHA meetings. SHA officially voted on and passed this recommendation at its April 17 & 18, 2010 meetings. However, SHA only indicated in late March that the Warman AA program was exempt from consideration and indicated that SMHA must determine how to cut down to one GSHL Interlock AA program. Although SHA provided little notice for this initiative and no explanation for Warman’s exemption, SMHA, MMHA & CMHA quickly responded and met on multiple occasions to determine a solution. Rather than simply delete one program, SMHA diplomatically attempted to develop a combined program with MMHA and CMHA. SMHA felt that the PeeWee and Bantam AA Interlock programs should combine, while each association could retain its strong Midget program. CMHA subsequently submitted a proposal whereby MMHA would be home to Bantam and Midget AA programs, while CMHA would be home to PeeWee and Midget AA programs. SHA ruled that only one Interlock Midget AA program would be allowed. After much open discussion and deliberation by CMHA, MMHA and SMHA, and given the limited time available to develop the proper structure of a completely new combined AA program for 2010-11, it was concluded that a combined program was not viable for 2010-11. As such, MMHA will be the GSHL Pee Wee, Bantam and Midget AA Interlock hosts in 2010-11. CMHA is greatly disappointed to see its AA program discontinued after several years of dedicated work and development that resulted in a solid program based on player development and quality administration. CMHA hopes cooperative and collaborative work with SMHA and all the associations around Saskatoon will lead to the formation of a strong and sustainable Interlock AA program for years to come.