CANADA
Hockey in Canada has deep historical roots and is an integral part of Canadian culture. Canada is regarded as the birthplace of hockey, and this sport holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Canadians. It enjoys immense popularity and takes a leading position among other sports disciplines.
Canada nurtures its hockey infrastructure at all levels, from youth hockey to professional leagues. A plethora of hockey schools, clubs, and training camps allows young talented players to hone their skills and expertise.
The future of hockey in Canada looks promising if the nation continues to invest in this sport's development. Some key aspects that can shape a successful future for hockey in Canada include:
Youth Program Development: Supporting and growing youth and junior hockey will make quality training accessible and help identify and nurture new talents.
Infrastructure Improvement: Investing in ice rinks, training grounds, and sports facilities will ensure conducive conditions for hockey development in the country.
Engaging Public Interest: Popularizing hockey among the Canadian populace will help draw new fans, sponsors, and investors, making the sport more resilient and successful.
Numerous hockey leagues for youngsters and young players: In reality, Canada boasts an extensive system of hockey leagues and programs for various age groups and levels of play. This provides players with numerous opportunities to choose the most suitable path for their growth and hockey careers. From youth leagues and junior competitions to professional leagues and international tournaments, Canada offers many options that assist young hockey players in achieving their sporting goals and dreams.
Choose career options in Canada
GTHL (Greater Toronto Hockey League)
The Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL), formerly known as the Metro Toronto Hockey League, is a minor hockey organization in the Greater Toronto Area, province of Ontario. The league was founded in 1911 as the Beaches Hockey League by Fred S. Waghorn Sr. and is the largest minor hockey organization in the world. The league is accredited by the Ontario Hockey Federation and Hockey Canada.
Levels of Play
The GTHL holds competitions in competitive leagues at levels (AAA, AA, and A):
AAA - highest level of play
AA - intermediate level of play
A - lower level of play
This league is open to hockey players aged 6 to 18.
Many GTHL graduates have achieved great success in the National Hockey League (NHL). These players have made significant contributions to the sport and have become role models for young hockey players. Some notable GTHL alumni who have reached the NHL level include: Wayne Gretzky, Steven Stamkos, John Tavares, Connor McDavid, Adam Fantilli, Shane Wright, and others.
CSSHL (Canadian Sport School Hockey League)
CCSHL (Canadian Collegiate Sports Hockey League) is a prestigious league for Canada's private academies and sports education programs, offering student-athletes the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete at a high level of hockey while combining with studies.
CCSHL is known for its competitive nature and the quality of players it produces. Many talented athletes have emerged from the league and moved on to higher levels of hockey, including semi-professional and even the National Hockey League (NHL).
CCSHL is primarily designed for players aged 13 to 18.
GMHL (Greater Metro Junior A Hockey League)
GMHL (Greater Metro Junior A Hockey League) is a Canadian developmental junior hockey league. The league primarily features teams in the Greater Toronto Area, Central Ontario, Northeastern Ontario, and Quebec.
As of December 2019, the league's alumni page lists 889 players who have completed their journey in the GMHL from 2006 to 2019 and have continued their careers, playing for NCAA colleges, various professional leagues, major junior league teams, or represented their country in various IIHF World Championships.
GMHL is an independent junior league and is not a member of the Canadian Junior Hockey League nor is it sanctioned by Hockey Canada. Age range is from 16 to 21 years old.