Photo courtesy of Scott Roblin

By Scott Roblin

Season Ahead

Medicine Hat, Lethbridge Ringette create league for upcoming season

Aug 25, 2020 | 5:56 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Ringette will be played this fall in Medicine Hat thanks to a new partnership between two usual rivals of the southern Alberta ringette scene.

This week, the Medicine Hat Ringette Association announced their return to play format for the 2020-21 season with the creation of a new ‘Sunny South League’ with the Lethbridge Ringette Association.

“Knowing that we have an opportunity to run our season, modified, but still get to run our season is really exciting for all of us,” said public relations director Elisha Ammann. “We’re all really excited to get our girls back playing again.”

The Sunny South League will feature two teams per city for each age division, which will be able to play games against one another once the season gets up and running.

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Along with being able to compete against other teams in their health region, this decision to connect the two associations was also a financial one for the families who often travel to Calgary for games.

“Going back to Calgary games and things we did in the past isn’t possible right now,” said Ammann. “But, certainly going to Lethbridge is really going to reduce the cost for families. It’s a lot closer for all of us, overnight stays won’t be required as usual, so we’re all happy about that.”

Evaluations are set to begin sometime in mid-September, before team practices get underway in mid-October.

Two new programs have also been launched for the Medicine Hat Ringette Association, one being an Active Start framework for those just learning the ropes.

The Active Start program is aimed at girls between four and six years old, which will provide skating training and guidance for $149 over a four-month period.

There’s also a push to keep goaltenders in the local system, as those who play at least two-thirds of the season will be able to have their fees reimbursed by the local association.

“We understand that it’s difficult sometimes for parents of goalies,” said Ammann. “They have all the extra equipment they have to buy and lug around with them everywhere, so we wanted to encourage those kids to keep playing.”

Registrations are still open for the 2020-21 season, those interested can sign up at the Medicine Hat Ringette Association’s website.