Hockey Canada has established a committee of stakeholders to assist in developing the organization’s next strategic plan for women’s and girls’ hockey. The announcement was made at a news conference during a women’s and girls’ hockey symposium that included representation from all 13 of Hockey Canada’s member associations. The committee will be led by former national team player and current Hockey Canada board member Gillian Apps, with former national team players Cassie Campbell-Pascall, Jayna Hefford, and Angela James also participating. The committee will oversee a discussion paper that will lead to formal recommendations for the strategic plan, which is expected to be published early this summer.
Hockey Canada has consulted its members and plans to conduct additional interviews with stakeholders both within and outside of the game. In addition, the organization will invite the Canadian public to participate in the research process. The goal of the strategic plan is to identify and address any gaps in the current system to provide more opportunities for women and girls in hockey. Gillian Apps emphasized the importance of being at the forefront of women’s hockey internationally and ensuring that Canada continues to lead the way in the sport. The committee’s volunteer efforts will be crucial in advancing the game at all levels and promoting growth and development in women’s and girls’ hockey.
The formation of this committee comes at a crucial time for women’s hockey, with a focus on creating more opportunities and enhancing the overall experience for female players. By bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, including former national team players and board members, Hockey Canada is demonstrating its commitment to developing a comprehensive and inclusive strategic plan. The committee’s work will involve thoughtful consideration and collaboration to address the specific needs and challenges faced by women and girls in hockey, with the ultimate goal of fostering growth and excellence in the sport.
The symposium held by Hockey Canada provided a platform for discussions and insights from various stakeholders on the current state of women’s and girls’ hockey. By gathering input from a wide range of individuals within the hockey community, the organization is taking a comprehensive approach to developing its strategic plan. Involving former national team players as key members of the committee will bring valuable perspectives and experiences to the table, ensuring that the plan is informed by the unique insights of those who have been directly involved in the sport at a high level.
As part of the strategic planning process, Hockey Canada is engaging in extensive research and consultation with stakeholders to gather feedback and input on how to best support women and girls in hockey. By inviting the Canadian public to participate in this process, the organization is opening up the discussion to a wider audience and seeking to capture a diverse range of perspectives and ideas. This inclusive approach reflects Hockey Canada’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the sport and ensuring that the strategic plan is representative of the needs and aspirations of women and girls in hockey.
In conclusion, the establishment of this committee marks a significant step forward in advancing women’s and girls’ hockey in Canada. By convening a group of dedicated and knowledgeable stakeholders, Hockey Canada is laying the groundwork for a strategic plan that will address the current challenges and opportunities within the sport. The involvement of former national team players and other key figures in the committee demonstrates a commitment to leveraging their expertise and insights to drive positive change in women’s hockey. With a focus on research, consultation, and collaboration, the strategic plan is poised to make a meaningful impact on the future of women’s and girls’ hockey in Canada.
