Whether you’re a returning family or new to the rink, this page is your go-to spot for understanding how our hockey season runs. From how we use TeamSnap to where to find your schedule, this section has the key info that keeps everything running smoothly.
You’ll find details on how individual hockey teams are formed, how schedules are shared, what volunteer roles are needed, and how our home tournaments work. As always, if you have questions, your team’s Coaches or Manager will be happy to help once teams are assigned.
Let’s have a great season!
Communication
NOMHA shares association-wide updates on the NOMHA website, by email, and on social media. Be sure to check the Updates section on the website regularly and follow NOMHA on Facebook and Instagram to stay informed about deadlines, tournaments, events, volunteer opportunities, and registration notices.
Most team-specific communication during the season happens through TeamSnap. This including schedules, announcements, and last-minute updates. Important team messages such as tournament weekend information, apparel orders, and hockey photos are also sent by email.
If you have questions about your team, your Team Manager is usually the best first contact. For general inquiries or broader concerns, please contact the appropriate board member.
TeamSnap
NOMHA uses the TeamSnap sports management software platform for player registration, as well as for each team’s schedule, team chat, and player roster. Please note that some features are available only on the mobile app (not the web version).
Schedule
Each team has its own schedule of practices, games, and tournaments. These schedules are set collaboratively by the association, our ice scheduler, and team managers. Schedules are shared directly with families through TeamSnap. Once your child is assigned to a team, your Team Manager will ensure you have access to that team’s schedule, including any updates or changes throughout the season.
Most teams have regular weekly practice times and will play games on weekends depending on their division and league schedule. Tournaments and exhibition games may be added as the season progresses. Some practice dates and times may be changed, especially during playoffs at the end of the year. Check TeamSnap for the most up-to-date information.
Teams
Once the season begins, players will be placed on teams within their age division and program level. Team assignments in Recreational programs are typically finalized after initial practices and are shared with families in early October.
NOMHA will publish a list of teams as soon as possible. Each team will also be set up in TeamSnap, where you’ll find your team’s full schedule, player roster, and updates. Your Team Manager will be your main point of contact once teams are assigned.
Team Volunteers
Each team depends on parent volunteers to function during the season. The following roles are usually needed for every team:
- Head Coach
- Assistant Coaches
- Designated Safety Person
- Team Manager
- Team Treasurer
- Equipment Manager
- Jersey Manager
- Scorekeepers/Timekeepers
- Home Tournament Volunteers
If you’d like to help out, you can indicate your preferred volunteer role when you register in May-June. You can also talk to your team’s Head Coach in September to see where help is needed.
Home Tournaments
North Okanagan Minor Hockey Association (NOMHA) hosts a full schedule of tournaments each season for both recreational and representative teams across all age divisions. Our tournaments are held at arenas in Armstrong and Enderby and are sanctioned by BC Hockey.
Policies
NOMHA expects all players, parents, coaches, and spectators to contribute to a respectful and supportive hockey environment. We follow BC Hockey’s Code of Conduct and Hockey Canada’s Fair Play Codes, and we encourage all families to review our policies before the season begins. Poor sportsmanship, bullying, or abusive behavior will not be tolerated.
Player Development
NOMHA is committed to skill development, sportsmanship, and fun. We follow Hockey Canada’s Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) model, which ensures players are learning age-appropriate skills and developing a lifelong love for the game. Each age group’s programming is tailored to their stage of development.
Equipment Requirements
Ice hockey players must wear a full set of protective equipment. Some items, like helmets and neck guards, must meet Hockey Canada safety standards.
Here’s a basic list of hockey gear, listed in the general order it’s put on:
- Thin base layer (worn under gear)
- Jock/Jill pelvic protector shorts
- Shin guards
- Hockey socks
- Hockey pants
- Skates
- Neck guard (BNQ-certified)
- Shoulder pads
- Elbow pads
- Hockey jersey
- Mouthguard
- Helmet with full face cage (CSA-certified)
- Gloves
- Stick with tape
- Water bottle
You’ll also need a gear bag to hold all the hockey gear. Optional extras include skate guards, repair tools, extra laces, a puck, a small skate towel, and hair accessories.
Safety and Injury Protocol
Every team has a Designated Safety Person (HCSP-certified) to help manage minor injuries and emergency procedures. If your child is injured, report it to the Designated Safety Person and your Team Manager right away. We follow Hockey Canada’s Return-to-Play protocols, including concussion awareness and reporting.
Weather and Cancellation
If poor weather affects local roads, arena access, or ice time, your Team Manager will share cancellation updates via TeamSnap. We do our best to give as much notice as possible, but safety always comes first. Please check TeamSnap before heading out during storms or icy conditions.
Travel
Most Recreational teams play within the Okanagan-Shuswap region. Rep teams generally travel more, including occasional overnight trips depending on the league schedule. Starting in U9, teams may have an “away” weekend tournament with a hotel arranged by the Team Manager.
Hockey Photos
Each season, NOMHA brings in a photographer to take official team and individual player photos. These photo sessions typically happen in November. You’ll receive details from your Team Manager once the date and time are confirmed.
Each child receives one printed “memory mate” photo as part of their entry fees, which includes an individual player photo and a group team photo printed together on one sheet. Additional prints and digital photos are available for purchase from the photographer.
NOMHA Team Apparel
Show your team spirit with official NOMHA and Knights gear! Hoodies, hats, toques, and Bauer Hockey Apparel items are available for players, coaches, parents, siblings, and fans.
Apparel orders are organized by Age Division and coordinated by Team Managers, who share the online order link through TeamSnap and email. Orders are placed online and can be customized with names or labels like “Coach.” Apparel ordering generally occurs in November.