North Shore Whitecaps Announced as New AAA Zone -- Oshawa and Clarington AAA programming to merge
www.whitecapsaaahockey.com The landscape of hockey is constantly evolving. Programming opportunities need to stay current to provide the best options available to players of all levels to ensure the best experience possible.
In evaluating registration trends, population and demographic shifts, ice capacity and competitive history, this brings along changes that will best suit the needs of players moving forward.
With that, the Ontario Minor Hockey Association is excited to announce the introduction of the North Shore Whitecaps for the 2024-25 regular season.
North Shore combines the AAA programs of the Oshawa Generals and Clarington Toros and will play in the East Conference of the OMHA’s AAA League. All other current levels of Representative and Recreational programming within these two organizations will remain unchanged.
The Whitecaps are the next step in the OMHA’s continued review of AAA programming, following the recent creation of the Credit River Capitals zone and the Hamilton Steel pilot project. AAA Zone restructuring has been one of the focuses of the AAA Committee with the dual goal of ensuring meaningful competition and providing the appropriate level of play for players.
By combining resources and opportunities, the Whitecaps will be able to field more competitive teams from a larger pool of players.
Clarington:
“The Clarington Zone Hockey Association has been working collaboratively with Oshawa Minor Hockey Association to develop an exciting new zone for next season. It is our hope that the North Shore Whitecaps are able to rejuvenate some excitement into our community by providing a more competitive product on the ice. We are looking forward to the inaugural season and wish all of our players the best of luck moving forward.”
Oshawa:
“Oshawa Minor Hockey is looking forward to the establishment of the North Shore Whitecaps as a prominent force in AAA hockey next season. We have been working diligently alongside Clarington (CZHA) to create a dynamic AAA Zone that will provide new and exciting opportunities for players. Wishing everyone involved the best of luck in the upcoming inaugural season and beyond!”
“The creation of North Shore Whitecaps is the result of months of work and cooperation between Clarington Zone, Oshawa Minor Hockey and the AAA Committee,” said OMHA President Craig Lane. “The players in this area will benefit from the strong programming and resources the new Zone can provide. Thank you to all involved and we are excited to see the Whitecaps on the ice next season.”
For families that are impacted by this news and have additional questions, please contact your local minor hockey associations who will be working with our Regional Directors during this transition.