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President’s Message
It’s been a busy stretch since September, and with fewer emails going out recently, we wanted this one to serve as a proper mid-season reset just before we all turn the age "2026".
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A lot has happened both on and off the ice. Community fundraising, tournaments, schedule changes, new systems, and yes, a few hard lessons learned the old fashioned way. This league continues to grow because of the people in it, past and present, and this roundup is meant to give you a snapshot of just how much goes on behind the scenes to keep things rolling.
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Think of this as the dressing room version of a Reader’s Digest. The highlights are here. The details are there if you want them.
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On a more sombre note (and speaking of great people from the league), one our of dear colleagues has recently passed. Mike Paniec - the man - the legend - the "maniac" (as he was know) was a staple of the league for years and will be sorely missed. We are all glad to have known you and will do our best to carry on, remembering that old adage - we're not here for the hockey.
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Food Drive - An Absolute Clinic
Let’s start with the easy win... On short notice, this group showed up in a big way for the Food Drive. Between cash and dry goods, the league raised $2,880 plus 200+ lbs of food for the food bank during one of the toughest times of year for families in our community.
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It was not just the money either. It was the turnout, the time spent hanging around, and the reminder that this league has always been about more than just the score clock. Hot dogs, world famous chili, raffle donations, and plenty of foyer conversations that probably solved nothing but felt important at the time. Well done, boys.
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November Tournament – Bigger Than You Think
This November, two KCOHL teams stepped up in an eight team tournament that delivered some great hockey and even better memories.
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Here’s the part many people do not realize. That November Tournament accounts for roughly 25 percent of the total donations we distribute to community organizations each year. That does not happen without sponsors, volunteers, and a lot of behind the scenes effort. A huge thank you goes out to all sponsors, and especially to Marc Swirsky and Jason Jacob , who have been running and managing this fundraiser for years. Without them, it simply does not happen.
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We also know tournaments are not for everyone. That is on our radar, and the goal next year is better organization, proper divisions, and making sure anyone who wants to play gets that opportunity.
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Spare Player Etiquette – This Only Works If We All Play Along
We introduced the spare system so everyone has a fair shot at extra ice time. Not so teams can duct tape together lineups mid game that look suspiciously strong.
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Long story short - when players do not check in, teams end up short. That leads to cherry picking skaters coming off the ice, which is not fair to the other bench that showed up with a full roster and expectations of a balanced game.
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The system already has safeguards built in so frequent spares wait longer and those who have not played get invited earlier. The missing piece is consistent check ins. Please take a few minutes to review how it works. It keeps games fair and the league running smoothly.
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Insurance Coverage (Action) – Learn From Other People’s Stitches
Insurance questions did not come out of nowhere. They came up shortly after one of our valued members decided he looked better without his front teeth, courtesy of a puck and a half shield with no mouth guard. A couple dozen stitches later, the coverage rules suddenly became very interesting.
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ALSO: expect a link in your inbox at some point in the next couple of weeks - to ensure full coverage you will have to click it and accept the terms this comes directly from CARHA.
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A half shield is mandatory
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No mouth guard with a half shield means no dental coverage
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A full shield includes dental coverage
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This is not about being over cautious. It is about understanding what you are and are not covered for before finding out the hard way.
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January and February Schedule Changes
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You may notice some non standard start times in January and February, including January 11 and January 18. These were required due to other city events and they are not an error. Please double check your schedule and plan accordingly.
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Save the Date – Year End Tournament
Mark it down now before life fills the calendar.
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Year End Tournament: March 27, 28, and 29 (End of Spring Break). More details to come!
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Year End Banquet – We Want Your Say
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We are exploring the idea of bringing back a Year End Banquet focused on celebrating what happens on the ice, not just on the golf course. The idea would be a Saturday night event on March 28 , with players, partners, and alumni invited. It only happens if there is interest, so take 10 seconds and vote.
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One Last Thing Before You Scroll Away
We have added a feedback form that will now live at the bottom of every newsletter. If you have questions, concerns, ideas, or thoughtful complaints about the league, this is the place to send them. Anonymous is fine. Constructive is appreciated. We read them all.
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