Hello fellow ringette associations and members! To kick off the 2024/25 season the West Ferris Ringette Association will be hosting a 1 day – 3 on 3 tournament on August 17th in North Bay.
When: Saturday August 17th from 8:00am – 10:00pm Where: North Bay @ Pete Palangio Arena
Please note:
All players must be registered with Ringette Ontario for the 2024/25 season
Coaching staff must be certified for level of play
Minimum of 7 and Maximum of eleven (11) players per team, which includes the goalie
4 game minimum
Any questions can be directed to the tournament organizer, Chris Caven
Thank you!
Summer Ice – Pecore/Jacks
Posted June 19, 2024
There will be a total of 5 ice times, on Sunday nights, for only $75. No pro-rated fee will be available for missed ice.
This ice is available to all WFRA players from the Jacks and Pecore divisions (U19/18+).
Dates:
July 7 @ 7:30pm
July 21 @ 7:30pm
July 28 @ 7:30pm
August 11 @ 7:30pm
August 25 @ 7:30pm
Dear Members,
The final post (I think) I have for your consideration is related to the role of Vice President of the Board of Directors. Shortly after last year’s Annual General Meeting this role became vacant. Chris Philips, who was in a Director at large position at the time, was willing to have his name put forward to fill the position for the year and this was voted on and endorsed by the Board of Directors. However, for the second year of the VP’s 2 year term we must post the position to the membership of the Association and have the members vote on the candidate for that second year.
The Vice President Role Highlights include: acts for the President upon request or in their absence; serves as chair of programs or committees as needed; become thoroughly acquainted with the Presidents role so as to assist as needed; assists other board members as needed; upon their request or in their absence.
If you or someone you know is interested in this leadership position with the Board of Directors please use our convenient nomination form.
Thanks.
Darren Pace, President WFRA.
AGM Series #8: Role of President
Posted April 3, 2024
Dear Members,
Another role I wish to bring to your attention as being up for election and open for nominations is that of President of the Board of Directors of our Association. This role is up for election of a 2 year term at our upcoming Annual General Meeting on April 22nd at 6:30 pm.
The President Role Highlights include: ensure plans and actions of the organization are consistent with the strategic direction of the organization, Ringette Ontario, and Ringette Canada; facilitate meetings and committee’s as needed; act as primary liaison with Regional partners and Ringette Ontario; Risk Manager for local span of control issues.
I have been in the role of President for the last 3 years and find it is time for me to step away from the role and my work on the Board. If you or someone you know is interested in a leadership position on the WFRA Board of Directors pplease use our convenient nomination form.
Thanks,
Darren Pace, President WFRA
AGM Series #7: Referee In Chief
Posted April 3, 2024
Dear Members,
To play the game of ringette you need people to officiate those games. At our upcoming Annual General Meeting one of the positions up for election of a 2 year term is that of Referee-In-Chief.
The Referee-In-Chief Role Highlights include: The Referee-in-Chief is responsible for the recruitment, retention, development, evaluation, scheduling, and tracking of hours of referee’s and minor officials. This includes: coordinating with the Director of Ice and Directors of House League Programming and Rep Programming to schedule referee’s and minor officials as needed; work with referee’s and minor officials to track their hours, then communicate these hours to the Treasurer to ensure payment; provide or facilitate the provision of ongoing training and evaluation of referee’s and minor officials.
If you are a credentialed Referee and interested in taking on this leadership role in the Association please use our convenient nomination form.
Thanks,
Darren Pace, President WFRA
AGM Series #6: Director of Rep Programming
Posted April 1, 2024
Dear members,
I am continuing to reach out to you as we search for people to put their names forward to fill the various roles we have opening up, to continue our ability to provide programming. Another position that is up for a 2 year term at the upcoming Annual General Meeting on April 22nd is that of Director of Rep Programming.
The Director of Rep Programming role highlights include: The Director of Rep Programming is the key support, coordinator, and facilitator of rep programs. This includes: advertising for rep coaching applications, and facilitating the evaluation and slection of applicants; coordinating and ensuring the facilitation of rep tryouts including recruitment of evaluators; evaluating team viability and engaging in discussions re: level of play; supporting team bench staff in ensuring completion of TRFs, etc; and being the first line of contact re: issues that arise within the rep programs.
If you or someone you know is interested in helping us continue to be able to provide Rep Programming as an Association please use our convenient nomination form.
Thanks,
Darren Pace, President WFRA
AGM Series #5: Lead Fun 1 and Fun 2 (Learn to Skate)
Posted March 30, 2024
Dear members,
As the season ends and our Annual General Meeting approaches there are many changes occurring. Sadly, one of these changes is our Fun 1 and 2 (Learn To Skate) leader Shawnah Smails has decided it is time for her to move on from her role with this program. Fun 1 and 2 are the foundational programs to ringette in general and the WFRA specifically. We are seeking a leader to take on this program and to continue the great efforts of Shawnah and others to attract kids to our sport, engage them on the ice, and develop their love of the sport. In Shawnah’s words:
‘Running our Learn to Skate program (FUN1 and FUN2) these past few years has been a rewarding experience for me. Being able to welcome our newest players to this incredible sport and witness each child’s growth and development over each season has been both fulfilling and enjoyable. Skating for me, has brought so much joy over my life and I continue amazing to be able to teach this to love sport as an adult through ringette. It has been amazing to be able to teach this skill to so many kids each year and see the fun they have playing ringette with friends. It is always a fun time at the rink.’
Shawnah will be missed in this role, but is not gone! She remains with our Association and is happy to help the new Fun 1 and 2 Leader settle into the role. If you are interested please use our convenient nomination form.
Thanks,
Darren Pace, President WFRA
AGM Series #4: Director of Ice
Posted March 24, 2024
Hello Members,
To play the sport of ringette we must have ice to play on. This requires planning, negotiating of contracts, and communication. To support our Association with this process we have a Director level position on the Board of Directors dedicated to Ice. This Director of Ice position is one of the positions up for election of a 2 year term at the upcoming Annual General Meeting on Monday April 22nd at 6:30 pm.
The Director of Ice will manage ice contracts with the Corporation of the City of North Bay and others as needed, develop and revise the house league schedule, schedule standard Rep Practices and tryouts, as well as scheduling ice for special events such as the Christmas Skate, communicate with various Directors and coaches to determine their ice needs, and communicate issues with the ice schedule and contract with the Executive.
If you or someone you know is interested in the Director of Ice position please use our convenient nomination form.
Thank you,
Darren Pace, President WFRA
AGM Series #3: Volunteering for the Board of Directors
Posted March 17, 2024
Hello Members.
I am continuing to do some posts about Board of Director positions up for election at the upcoming Annual General Meeting on Monday April 22nd at 630 pm. So far I have talked about a couple of positions on the Board and what their role is, but thought I should do a post on what volunteering for the Board of Directors is about.
The Board of Directors of the West Ferris Ringette Association is a group of 13 elected members of the Association who take on various roles to ensure the local running of the sport of ringette. Those positions include President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, Referee-in-Chief, and 8 Director positions each of which have their own portfolio. Each Board member has their area of responsibility and works in a collaborative manner to ensure the operation of the Association. The Board meets monthly for approximately 2 hours. There are formal and informal sub committee meetings, formal being planned meetings on a specific topic or issue and informal being running into each other at the arena. There is some email and text communication to sort out between meeting issues. Depending on the role there may be liaising with other Associations or with Ringette Ontario.
The Board focuses its attention on the needs of all members. This at times requires members to take a step back if a decision will specifically impact them or a family member. As a member of the Board we are responsible and accountable to the membership as a whole. There are a variety of things the Board focuses on, but some of these things include strategic imperatives that have been identified. Over the last few years some of these have been: Recruitment and retention of players in general, specifically goalies, coach’s and volunteers; taking steps to diversify the population of people who play ringette; advocating for the needs of our Association as well as the Northeast Region; keeping the Association compliant with changes in Not For Profit legislation; and implementing strategic and policy imperatives from Ringette Ontario.
Being a member of the Board of Directors can be quite rewarding, and gives you an opportunity to help develop the sport of ringette locally as well as how we interact with the sport provincially. I hope to see some new faces to come forward and help the Board of Directors as it continues to move forward with the growth and development of ringette locally and across the province. Nominate now!.
Thanks.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
AGM Series #2: Treasurer
Posted March 15, 2024
Hello Members,
Today I would like to introduce you to another role on the Board of Directors that will be up for election this upcoming Annual General Meeting on Monday April 22nd at 630 pm. The role is that of Treasurer. The Treasurer will be one of the Corporation’s members with signing authority. They will work with the Board to develop an annual budget, monitor funds going into and out of the Corporations accounts, work closely with the Book keeper and volunteer Auditors to monitor the Corporations finances and reports on same to the Board and the membership.
The Treasurer is an integral role in the running of our Association and the provision of Ringette in North Bay. If you are interested in this role please use our convenient nomination form.
Thanks.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
AGM Series #1: Director of Volunteers
Posted March 14, 2024
Hello Members.
It is that time of year again and our Annual General Meeting is fast approaching. Our AGM is tentatively booked for Monday April 22nd at 630 pm. As a part of our AGM there will be several positions of the Board of Directors up for nomination and election. I would like to take a moment to introduce you to one of these roles.
At the 2023 AGM we passed new bylaws that required us to make some changes to the Board of Directors. In the past we have had a Technical Director, and after consultation with the current Director and the Board we are changing this position to Director of Volunteers.
The Volunteer portfolio Role Highlights include; ensure all volunteers, board members, coaches, trainers, managers, etc. have mandatory qualifications as per Ringette Ontario standards; clearly communicate these standards and expectations to active association volunteers or those seeking to volunteer; collaborate with Registrar to ensure all volunteers have the appropriate police checks; collaborate with Registrar, the Board, and other association members to recruit, retain, and facilitate the engagement of volunteers across association programming.
Our organization only exists because of our volunteers. If you would be interested in joining the Board and helping our Association continue to grow and be a positive influence in our community please use our convenient nomination form.
Darren Pace
President, WFRA
Conflict Prevention and Disagreement Resolution Guideline
Posted March 3, 2024
Hello Members.
Over the last few years I’ve been doing a variety of work related to the WFRA Policies as well as getting our association in line with Ringette Ontario policy. As I’ve gone through this process I’ve noticed there is a gap in the combined policy library. When the policies look at how members interact with one another the policies tend to look at things from the negative side. We have Complaints and Discipline policies that outline how to complain about someone and what should happen to them. We also have multiple Codes of Conduct, which are essentially lists of behaviours we hope not to see. I do my best to approach things in a positive and strengths-based manner, and in keeping with this I would like to invite you to review our new Conflict Prevention and Disagreement Resolution Guideline. What I hope to do with this Guideline is to promote positive interactions, rather than focus on what not to do and how to complain when things go wrong.
Darren Pace
President, WFRA
WFRA Competitive Stream Mentor Jeff Francom
Posted November 22, 2023
Good Day Members,
Please join me in welcoming a familiar face to a new role. Jeff Francom will be volunteering with the association in a new role, the WFRA Competitive Stream Mentor. In this role Jeff will be engaging with our Rep team programming from Fun 3 and up. He will be attending practices and, where possible, some games.
The goal will be to provide support and suggestions to bench staff, families and players to help maximize their Rep experience. He will be available to answer questions from all participants and will meet and encourage our rep players and help them in their development as athletes.
Jeff has a long history with WFRA and has coached at all age levels across the competitive stream, from Fun 3 to University. He is very engaging, has a great understanding of Long-Term Athlete Development, and uses a positive-strengths based coaching philosophy. Please welcome Jeff as you see him around the arenas!
Darren Pace
WFRA President
Supporting Our Officials
Posted October 17, 2023
Dear Members,
I want to reach out to you today as our season gets underway and thank all of our officials, our referee’s and minor officials that make it possible for us to play the game we love. As I extend our thanks to our officials I want to remind everyone that Ringette Ontario (RO) and the West Ferris Ringette Association of North Bay (WFRA) have and fully endorse a series of Code’s of Conduct including one for Spectators.
RO and WFRA fully support key principles in ringette including fair play, graciousness, sportsmanship,
safety, inclusion, mutual respect, integrity, and the promotion of an enjoyable environment. Spectators
are expected to live up to the Code of Conduct and these values and that includes how they interact
with referee’s and minor officials. RO and WFRA have a zero tolerance policy as it relates to offensive or abusive behaviour, including towards officials. Many of our officials, both referee’s and minor officials, are teenagers. It has become increasingly difficult to recruit people to take on these roles due to patterns of verbal abuse from spectators. We need to change this pattern. No referee’s means no games. We want to be supportive to our officials, thank them for their efforts and give them a safe and supportive environment to work in. We do not want verbal abuse or harassment such as yelling ‘You suck, stripes!’ as they leave the ice, or acts of physical intimidation such as intentionally blocking their way on and off the ice or making threats. Any such behaviours will result in the spectator being asked to leave the arena area immediately and may result in additional disciplinary action. I would prefer this not be necessary, and feel strongly our ringette community can show our referee’s and minor officials respect and support.
I look forward to a fun and safe ringette season.
Darren Pace
President WFRA
It’s Time for East West!
Posted February 7, 2023
Next Thursday, February 15th, starting at 5:15pm, we’re having the biggest inter-association tournament of the season! All divisions will be divided into East and West and will work together to win, with the scores staying on the board for each game and continuing into the next game! Come cheer on your side for the night!
Your team assignment will be given to you once you arrive at the arena. Check out the schedule
Many thanks to the wonderful group of volunteers that came out and made the 2023 North Bay Santa Claus Parade such a hit!
Upcoming Goalie Clinics
Updated January 15, 2023
Attention all WFRA full-time, part-time and occasional goalies.
We encourage you to attend our free-of-charge goalie clinic in February. RSVP to the Goalie Clinic event inside your RAMP app today!
February Clinic:
Date: Sunday, February 4th
Time: 5pm
Location: West Ferris Arena
Please register for the February clinic on our RAMP events page.
Our professionals, Peter, Kels, Mykaela and Mel, have been running goalie clinics for the WFRA for a number of years.
For the players who are new to the position, it will be a great opportunity to learn more about the position. For those with a few years under their belt, it’s a fantastic refresher.
If you have any questions, please contact us, and don’t forget to RSVP to the clinics through your RAMP app!
See you on the ice!
PD Day Ringette Camp
Posted January 9, 2024
Spend the day playing and learning from the Nipissing Lakers Ringette team!
Date: Friday February 2nd Time: 8:30am to 4pm Place: West Ferris Arena
Age: U12, U14, U16 – There will be 2 groups (1 group per time on the ice) that will be divided based on evaluation
Information: snacks and light refreshments provided. Players are to bring a lunch.
Players are guaranteed two 1-hour ice times, off ice strategy, nutrition sessions, and dry land.
What to bring: full ringette equipment, water bottle, lunch, change of clothes (for the dry land if needed), running shoes, snacks
Cost: $75 for the entire day
See you on the ice!
Come Try Ringette For Free – Fun3
Posted January 15, 2023
Calling on all FUN 3 players to mobilize their troops! Ask your players to nudge their friends and family to come and join them for their ice time this Thursday for our FUN 3 “Bring A Friend”/Come Try Ringette for Free Night!
📆 Thursday, January 18
📍 Pete Palangio Arena
⏰ 5:15pm
👥 Ages 10 and under
Please register now, and arrive 30 minutes early so everyone has time to suit up!
We look forward to seeing you on the ice! https://bit.ly/wfra-jan18-ctr (registration required)
Family Holiday Skate
Posted December 8, 2023
December 17th from 4pm to 6pm at West Ferris Arena
Join us for a festive skate before the holidays. All members are welcome to attend with family or friends!
The ice will be open for skating and there will be hot chocolate, door prizes, a DJ, and bake sale fundraiser hosted by our rep teams. Everyone is encouraged to decorate their helmet or wear their craziest holiday sweater….prizes will be awarded!
Helmets are required for everyone under the age of 18 and strongly recommended for those over 18. Sticks will not be permitted.
To prevent tripping hazards on the ice, please ensure to use items that can not be easily removed or will not fall off if you are planning to decorate yourself/your shirt. Our Nipissing Lakers Ringette players and WFRA volunteers will be out on the ice making sure everyone is having fun and staying safe!
Adult(16+) FREE NIGHT
Posted December 11, 2023
Are you an adult and/or parent who would love to brush up on your skating skills?
This session is for adults and/or parents with little to no skating skills, or for those who want the chance to practice certain skills (crossovers, stops, backwards etc). Coaches will be in place to run stations on various skating skills.
When: Sunday, December 17 @ 7pm (arrive early to suit up)
Where: West Ferris Arena
What to bring: helmet, gloves and skates (and other protective equipment if desired)
We will have sticks available. Please contact us if you need to borrow equipment.
Our FREE Goalie Clinic is open to all WFRA full-time, part-time and occasional goalies. We encourage all goalies to attend, free of charge.
Details:
Date: Sunday, September 24th
Time: 6pm
Location: West Ferris Arena
The clinic will be run by Peter Baldasaro and Mykaela Shymanski, who have been running goalie clinics for the WFRA for a number of years. This clinic will cover all the basics.
For the players who are new to the position, it will be a great opportunity to learn more about the position. For those with a few years under their belt, it’s a fantastic refresher for the beginning of the season.
If you have any questions, please contact us.
See you on the ice!
U12 Rep Sort Outs
Posted September 12, 2023
Hey U12 – did you know we have a rep team?
We are pleased to announce Chris Caven as the U12 rep team’s head coach for the 2023/24 season!
We have some conditioning ice times coming up to get ready for the sort outs, and they are open to all U12 players:
Saturday Sept 9 @ 3pm at Pete Palangio
Tuesday Sept 12 @ 5:15pm at Pete Palangio
If you are interested in playing on the team, the sort outs are as follows ($10 per session):
Thursday September 14 @ 6:15pm at Pete Palangio
Saturday September 16 @ 3pm @ Pete Palangio
We hope to see you on the ice!
WFRA
Pecore Division and Adult(16+) CTRF
Posted September 12, 2023
Pecore division play starts this Sunday, September 17, 7pm @ Pete Palangio Arena along with a Come Try Ringette for Free Adult Event!
We encourage you to register as soon as possible and to let your friends and colleagues know that we have a Come Try Ringette for Free Event for Adults during the first scrimmage of the season. To register for the Pecore Division, please visit our registration page. The cost for new players (who haven’t registered with the WFRA in the last 5 years) is $125, while return players pay $285. To register for the Come Try Ringette for Free for Adults event, please visit our CTRF page.
Although it is preferable to pre-register to speed up the registration process, drop-ins are welcome if space allows. **Helmets, gloves and skates needed, but we can provide you with a stick to try!!
Looking forward to seeing you on the ice!
The West Ferris Ringette Association.
Coaches Matter
Posted August 18, 2023
Sport North Bay, in collaboration with the Coaching Association of Canada, is celebrating coaches who have been there through thick and thin.
Coaches are a crucial part of building a healthy active community.
Coaches develop young athletes passion for sport that can carry them on to success later in life.
Help us recognize all extraordinary coaches making a difference in North Bay and area.
Ringette Ontario needs your help. On September 21st, 2023 RO will be hosting our 2nd annual #WhyRingette / #ChooseRingette Day. This day is all about telling the stories of people within our community so that we can put a human connection to our sport. This day and the days leading up to the 21st will allow us to spread the word & awareness of our sport to a wider audience.
This is where you come in.
Ringette Ontario is looking to get your help with collecting quotes, stories, photos, etc. from your communities that we could use from September 1st to the 21st. We are looking for the following items:
Quotes – Here are some questions to help you think of your quote (Why did you choose to play ringette, what made you want to play/try ringette, what does ringette mean to you, why should someone else chose ringette, etc.)
Community Member Story – We are looking for 6 individuals who would be willing to tell their story. This would entail an interview via zoom, after which RO would write a blog post. These interviews would happen in August, so we are prepared for September.
Community Member Instagram Story or Reel Takeover – We would need 2 individuals that may be comfortable with filming a day in the life.
Thank you for helping and we look forward to this being another successful #WhyRingette/ #ChooseRingette Day!
Voting is now open for BayToday’s Reader Favourites! We would love your support in showing North Bay that we are one of your favourite local organizations.
We appreciate your vote!
The West Ferris Ringette Association
FREE RINGETTE!
Posted August 18, 2023
The WFRA is hosting a FREE Come Try Ringette event!
Come skate with us for free and try our amazing sport!
When and Where: Saturday, September 9th, 1:00pm-3:00pm @ Pete Palangio Arena
Register online to ensure your spot! Registration is required!
Helmets, gloves and skates needed, but we can provide you with a stick to try!!
Looking forward to seeing you on the ice!
The West Ferris Ringette Association
Summer Coaching Clinics Posted
Posted June 26, 2023
Ringette Ontario has posted 3 Community Sport Initiation (up to U12) coach clinics and 1 Competition Introduction (U12 and above) coach clinic to be held virtually over the summer. There is also an in-person CI clinic posted that will be held in Goderich in September. There will be more to come, so get your training in today!
Beat the heat and join the WFRA for some ice times this summer!
Each player will be guaranteed 4 ice times with their registration.
Cost: $65 for all 4 sessions
Please note registration is for all sessions therefore refunds will not be provided if a player does not attend a session.
Fun 3 and U12 age groups: the ice times will be a combination for skills and drills and scrimmage.
U14, U16, U19 and 18+: the ice times will consist of a warmup and then a shinny style scrimmage that will be 3 on 3, 4 on 4 or 5 on 5, to be determined at the ice time, based on the attendance.
The schedule and division combinations will be determined based on registration.
General Ice times are as follows**:
Sunday July 9 4:30 5:30
Sunday July 16 6:15 7:15
Sunday July 23 6:15 7:15
Sunday July 30 6:15 7:15
August 13 6:15 7:15
August 20 6:15 7:15
**Please note that all players will NOT be attending all ice times. This is just to give notice about when we have the ice booked for WFRA. This schedule is not finalized.
Registration will close June 17 and the schedule will be posted on the week of June 18.
To register for house league at the same time and save $25 until July 31st!: Participant Registration > check applicable House League package AND Summer Ice package.
Please contact us with any questions. We can’t wait to see you there!
Kid Zone Volunteers Needed
Posted June 21, 2023
Hello members,
I am reaching out to you today to look for volunteers to run our Kids Zone activity Canada Day at the North Bay waterfront Saturday, July 1 from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm. This is a fun and active day where volunteers get a chance to talk and display ringette to our community. We talk the sport, answer questions, and run an activity with a shooting mat, some rings and sticks, and a small net. It is typically a lot of fun! For people still looking at getting some volunteer hours in we will happily sign off on any hours you volunteer at this activity.
Come on out and share/show off your sport!
If you are interested in volunteering for part or all of this event please contact us.
The NER is happy to announce we are collecting intent to try out submissions for U14AA and U16AA.
Players can choose to either try out for the team or to come out for development over four 2-day overnight camps that take place between August and December, rotating between Sault Ste-Marie, North Bay, Sudbury and Timmins. In the form, you will be asked which camp(s) you would be interested in attending. Here is the link for the form.
We are collecting responses until July 10, so please contact us if you have any questions.
Thank you,
Northeast Region Ringette
Welcome our 2023-2024 Rep Coaches!
Posted April 03, 2023
We’re excited to announce next season’s rep coaches!
U14 A – Meaghan Spykerman:
Meaghan has been coaching for eight years and has been playing for 19. She also has a lot of experience reffing and volunteering within ringette. Meaghan has coached a variety of levels as a head coach for B teams and assistant coach for A, AA, and AAA. Meaghan strives to gain knowledge from each year that she coaches in order to bring new ideas forward every year. She’s looking forward to her development as a head coach at the A level and taking players high drive for ringette to the next level. Meaghan will be looking for commitment, passion, and determination to form her team.
U16 A – Jade Cayen:
Jade has been playing for 20+ years. She is a newer coach in recent years but has spent many years volunteering within the association in other positions. Jade has completed a mass of formal training courses and brings a professional component to the game in which she utilizes her knowledge as a recreational therapist to turn sport into skill building. She strives to use sport to promote positive mental and physical health. Players will not only develop their skills related to ringette, but they will benefit from enhancing their social, cognitive, and emotional skills as well – all by playing a sport they love. Jade will be looking to build her team based on energy, humility, adaptability, and perseverance.
U19 A – Erin Johns:
Erin has 12 years of coaching experience within multiple age groups and level of play, including A and AA. This past season she was the Assistant Coach for Sault Ste Marie U19 A and Nipissing University. Erin will be building on player strengths to create a clear system with the goal of being competitive with other teams. Demonstrating good sportsmanship, giving maximum effort, having a positive attitude, and willingness to learn are the key things Erin will be looking for in players.
Congratulations to all!
Best of luck in the upcoming season!
Players wishing to try out for the next highest division may do so but must also attend the tryout in their age group. We’re also looking for qualified evaluators for all tryouts! If you would like to be considered as an evaluator or have questions about tryouts, please contact Marc Desroches, Rep Director, and you can also view our Rep Team Policy.
Note: U12 tryouts will be held in the fall as per Ringette Ontario policy and the long-term athlete development module.
Come Try Ringette – For Free!
Posted April 05, 2023
Join us for a FREE Come Try Ringette event at Pete Palangio Arena on May 2, starting at 6:15PM! Everyone welcome regardless of skill level. No experience necessary. Grab a friend, and come on out for some fun and learning. Have you thought about playing ringette as a goalie or switching to the goalie position? This is the perfect opportunity to test it out, with our experienced goaltenders leading the session! We will attempt to provide equipment as
able. Choose from our three categories below and RSVP today!
6:15 pm – 7:15 pm
Anyone under 18 – Skates, helmet, and gloves/mitts are required.
7:15 pm – 8:15 pm
Anyone 18+ – We offer adult divisions to suit everyone’s needs. Come give it a try before next season! Skates, helmet, and gloves/mitts are required.
7:15 pm – 8:15 pm
All ages welcome – Skates and a certified helmet are required. Shin pads and gloves (or goalie equipment) are recommended.
Our Year-End Banquet
Posted April 11, 2023
The year-end banquet will take place on Friday, April 14. All members are welcome!
Here is a break down of the event:
5:00 P.M. Games & face painting
5:15 P.M. Pizza
5:45 P.M. Presentation of medals, awards, and door prizes
6:30 P.M. Music and dancing
The event will wrap up around 8:00 P.M.
If you have not yet returned your jersey, please wash it and return it to your coach at the banquet.
We look forward to seeing everyone there to celebrate the end of the season together!
Volunteer Award Nominations
Posted March 23, 2023
As the season begins to wind down for the 2022-2023 season, it is time for us to begin to look back on what we have achieved this year and begin to celebrate. As a part of this celebration, every year, our association gives out awards to recognize our members.
Please take a few minutes to look at the list of awards below and what they are for. Take some time to consider all the amazing people you have come into contact within WFRA this past season and the great things they have done and consider nominating someone for one of these awards.
Once the nominations are in, our award selection committee and the WFRA executive will work to select the successful winners of our awards for the 2022-2023 season.
If you’re looking to become a coach, this mandatory course is being offered for free on April 15th, 2023 at Canadore College as part of a national initiative to promote the new mental health in sport content recently added to these NCCP Modules.
Annual General Meeting
Posted March 22, 2023
Our 2023 Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, from 6:30-8:30 P.M. in the Boardroom at Pete Palangio Arena. At this meeting we will present reports from the various Executive members, review and vote on motions, and hold elections for Executive member positions that are up for election or vacant.
The AGM is a time for us to look back at our year in review with our members. It is also a time of change and renewal. There are many opportunities for our members to take leadership roles within the association to help make sure that we continue to provide quality ringette programming. As our players age, so do their parents, and as they age out of our programming and move on to other opportunities in life, so do the parents that make up much of the leadership of the association. WFRA is always looking for those to help us maintain and renew. Whether you are an adult player or an interested family member, we need you to help us continue to be able to provide quality programming.
All eligible voting members are welcome to attend our AGM. An eligible voting member includes a registered player over 18 years of age, the parents/legal guardian of a registered player under 18 years of age, Executive members and officials, persons fulfilling an administrative role for the WFRA, or a life member of the Association.
To make any changes to the WFRA by-laws, a motion must be submitted through the online AGM motion form by April 12, 2023. Any motions received after this point cannot be entertained at this AGM.
The following Executive positions will be elected in 2023 for a 2 year term:
Vice President
Secretary
Registrar
Ways and Means Director
Technical Director
House League Director
Sponsorship Director
Tournament Director/Director at Large
Publicity Director
Web Director
The following Executive position will be available in 2023 for a 1 year term:
Referee in Chief
You can nominate someone, or self-nominate, using our online Nomination form. Nominations can be received up to April 12, 2023, and after that date any two WFRA members can present nominations at or prior to the AGM.
As we wrap up the house league season, there are a few key things we would like to communicate with you:
Playoffs
FUN3 teams will have a playoff game as their last game time on Sunday, March 26 at 4 pm.
U12 teams will have a best 2 of 3 series for their last 3 games. If one team wins both first games, the last ice time will be a “fun game” as decided by their coaches.
U14/U16- Team Cayen and Active Running will play on March 26th at 5 pm. The winner of that game will play Team Phillips on March 28th at 6:15.
18+ Jacks – West Ferris 63’s play Grecos on March 26th at 6 pm. King Sportswear plays Team Canada on March 26th at 7 pm. The winners of those two games will play on March 27 at 7:15 pm
18+ Pecore – Last ice time is March 26th at 8 pm
Equipment Returns
FUN1 and FUN2 players, please return any borrowed equipment to the equipment room (upstairs at the back of West Ferris Arena near the zamboni) on Saturday, March 25th between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm.
All other divisions can return their equipment on Saturday, April 15th from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm to the equipment room.
Year-End Banquet
The WFRA executive is working on organizing our year-end banquet where medals and awards will be distributed. Stay tuned for details!
Thanks to everyone for making our 2022/2023 season a success!
West Ferris Ringette Association
Ringette Pathways Information Session
Posted March 14, 2023
Ringette: simplified!
WHEN: MONDAY, MARCH 27, 2023 AT 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
WHERE: École secondaire publique Odyssée
DURATION: 2 hours
WHO: Anyone and Everyone!
We’ve taken questions asked over the years and combined the answers with some unpopular (but useful) knowledge to bring you an information session! This event will be geared towards U10-U19 parents and players, but anyone who wants to learn is welcome to attend. Our experienced panel members are looking forward to answering your questions and helping you understand the many ringette pathways regardless of your age or level of play.
Community Centre Supporters Celebrating
Posted February 15, 2023 – North Bay Nugget
More than 12 years ago Khouri Long was part of a group that desperately wanted to get a community centre built in North Bay.
After all these years the dream is much closer to reality.
North Bay city council decided, by a razor-thin margin on Tuesday evening, to move forward with the twin-pad arena by agreeing to the tendering process.
That will open another complex issue when those bids come back, but that is for a later date.
Long was a founding member of MURF (Multi-use Recreational Facility) which involved a feasibility study involving some powerful community partners such as Sport North Bay, North Bay Partners in Hockey, Canadore College and Nipissing University.
Long left the council meeting smiling, she explains why.
“After 12 years of trying to get the best design, trying to find the best location, getting it to tender, it is a huge, huge step forward,” says Long.
“We are very hopeful that the tender comes back at a reasonable price that was talked about so much at council so we can get shovels in the ground,” says Long
Of course, some may not see a more than $50 million price tag as reasonable. Some publicly have suggested the money earmarked for a sports complex be used on rising homelessness rates and affordable housing projects.
Long responded the way, “That has been my component of this project during the entire process. It is making a community-based facility,” remarked Long. “I think they have done that.”
She believes the community centre will generate a lot of revenue.
“As a local business owner looking at the big picture, we will have tournaments in town, we will be able to host more events. All local businesses will thrive off that (more events locally). My kids’ friends will get extra shifts at the restaurant and will go home and spend more money at the local sports stores. The motels will be full,” stated Long.
Long thinks people need to use a wider lens when assessing this project’s city-wide benefits.
“I look at it very much as a community project that is going to spin off to everybody in our area as opposed to those who simply use the facility,” remarked Long.
Mike Finner was another long-term member of the MURF committee. Finner tells The Nugget the journey to a new community complex is still a long way off.
“I would like to say (the journey) is over but all that is going to happen is that we are going to come back with tender prices, and we be going through this (process) again,” says Finner.
“I’m disappointed with the pace of what is going on, but (still) it was a big night for us, it is a step in the right direction and when the final tender prices come in, we can give it our final approval,” remarked Finner.
Finner knows many local agencies think the money geared to this project could help in other sectors, but he believes this type of project is essential to North Bay’s growth.
“It was a priority 15 years ago when we knew we had hockey players and teams going all over the place for practice times,” states Finner.
Finner adds that with the declaration that the West Ferris Arena should be closed the crisis was elevated.
“What started out as a nice thing suddenly became an emergency, we got to have it,” says Finner.
“I understand homelessness, I understand crime, I understand that money could be spent all over the place. But we have waited 15 years for this, it is not like we have barged ahead of other needs in the community,” says Finner.
Linda Turcotte was on the original MURF community representing Canadore College (she was the athletic director at the time) and Nipissing University.
“I was elated,” says Turcotte when asked about the council vote. “That is because of all the hard work and the community support and the community investment from sporting groups that helped pay for the feasibility study,” says Turcotte.
Join us for a festive skate before the holidays. All members are welcome to attend with family or friends!
The ice will be open for skating and there will be hot chocolate, door prizes, a DJ, and bake sale fundraiser hosted by our rep teams. Everyone is encouraged to wear their best (ugliest) Christmas sweater!
This year, we’re accepting donations to support the Nipissing Association for Disabled Youth (NADY). NADY is a charitable organization in our community that strives to improve and implement services for youth with physical and developmental challenges. They offer recreational programs for children and youth with special needs in the North Bay and surrounding area. Cash donations of any amount will be accepted at the door. Donate to earn an extra ballot for the door prize!
Helmets are required for everyone under the age of 18 and strongly recommended for those over 18. Sticks will not be permitted.
To prevent tripping hazards on the ice, please ensure to use items that can not be easily removed or will not fall off if you are planning to decorate yourself/your shirt. Our Nipissing Lakers Ringette girls will be out on the ice making sure everyone is having fun and staying safe!
RO COVID Vaccination Policy
Posted October 11, 2022
As the province and the rest of the country opens back up following two years of lockdowns, and capacity and gathering limits, Ringette Ontario Board of Directors has voted in favour of rescinding the mandatory vaccination policy that was put on hold effective April 18th, 2022.
As we’ve seen over the last two seasons, this comes with an understanding that this guidance may change over the coming months as the COVID-19 situation can still evolve.
It is still strongly encouraged that all participants who are eligible to be vaccinated do so.
We will continue to follow the direction of the Government of Ontario’s Public Health guidelines. All programs, regardless of size or level, are ultimately required to adhere to all public health, municipal and facility policies, and directives, if more restrictive than the current provincial guideline.
Thank you for your continued support as we Return to Ringette.
Ringete Ontario
Registration for 2022-2023 is OPEN!
Posted July 14, 2022
Dear WFRA Members,
We are pleased to announce that the Ramp Registration Platform is open for registration. A 25$ Early Bird discount will apply until August 15th so don’t delay!
Ramp Registration Platform
If possible, please use the same username as last year when registering online. All of your information will automatically populate and any discounts or credits (e.g. Bingo credits) will show up automatically. Follow the link from our Registration Page to access Ramp.
Please note that this year, payments will be accepted by credit card, Kidsport or Jumpstart only. Please contact me if this poses a problem for you. Furthermore, you will see the WFRA, RO Membership and RO Insurance fees show up as separate line items. They add up to the package costs outlined on our website. Please note that pre-paid credit cards are accepted on Ramp.
Kidsport or Jumpstart Applicants
If you are applying for Kidsport or Jumpstart funding, please take a look at our subsidy pages for instructions on how to receive an “Application Number” for Ramp. Unfortunately, you will have to pay for RO fees with a credit card (approximately $57). Pre-paid credit cards are accepted on Ramp.
Respect in Sport for Parents program
Ringette Ontario requires that one parent of every ringette player under the age of 18 must take the Respect in Sport Parent Program by November 1. This course is mandatory to have the Player’s registration approved. For more information, please check out Ringette Ontario’s Respect in Sport for Parents Information Page and the Respect in Sport for Parents FAQs.
The cost is 12$ plus HST, takes about an 1h15 to complete and can be applied across many sport associations. If you’ve already completed it for another sport, simply input the certificate number on the Ramp platform. Tip: Since it is largely audio with a few images, it is possible to sign in from your cell phone, pop in your headphones and listen to the program (while having to stop once in a while to click on answers).
Goalie Recruitment Incentive
I have sent last year’s goalies (U12-U19) a Goalie Recruitment Incentive promo code to use during the Ramp registration process. Please check your junkmail or contact me if you have not received it.
Volunteer Sign Up on Ramp
Volunteers carry out 100% of WFRA activities, making them an integral part of its success. We encourage WFRA members to volunteer approximately 5 hours per player (or maximum of 10 hours per family) during the season. There are several ways to get involved that vary in time commitment and qualifications.
Select the volunteer task(s) that interest one or several members of your family. Once we have a roster of volunteers, we will be able to reach out to the volunteers who have signed up on this page and provide them with a choice of times to help out. For example, members signing up as a Fundraising Event Volunteer will be provided with the choice of several events to participate in.
Please note that you only have to fill this out once per account (choose all tasks that might be of interest).
Refer a Friend Incentive
Although the details have not yet been ironed out, we will be recognizing members who refer new players to the WFRA with a financial incentive. Please let friends and family know that first-time players pay only 100$ per year and that we have an Equipment Loan Program available!
Equipment Swap Meet
We are planning an Equipment Swap Meet in late summer early fall. Stay tuned!
Josée Lebel
Volunteer Registrar, WFRA
Free Goalie Clinic
Posted October 19, 2022
West Ferris Ringette Association will be hosting a goalie clinic next weekend in collaboration with Nipissing University Lakers ringette! Get hands-on help for FREE from experienced goalies on October 29 @ 2:00 PM, at the Pete Palangio Arena!
If you’re a goalie looking to practice and learn some new skills, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
We have a brand NEW adult division this season. Grab a friend and come try it for FREE!
Sunday, September 25, at 8:00 P.M. at the West Ferris arena.
WFRA offers a recreational division (Pecore) for players to have a night out, get some exercise, meet new people and have a good time. This is a fun, safe way to explore a great sport, and we welcome all skill levels – from newcomers that are improving their skating, to someone that has not played in a number of years, to someone that still wants to participate but does not want the pressure of having to play in a fast pace, competitive atmosphere.
Games are staffed by officials but scores are not recorded. Games are 1 night a week and teams are shuffled on a frequent basis with a focus on fun, fitness and friendship.
Players and goalies of all genders aged 16+ are welcome!
Equipment is recommended for this event. Sticks will be provided!
*Helmet, gloves, and skates are mandatory*
Free NCCP Coach Training
Posted September 11, 2022
September 19-27 is National Coaches Week!
Coach.ca is saying #ThanksCoach by providing several eLearning courses for FREE throughout the week. Visit the eLearning page to take NCCP Coaching Athletes with a Disability, NCCP Making Headway in Sport, NCCP Emergency Action Plan, Safe Sport Training or NCCP Coach Initiation in Sport.
#ThanksCoach for all you do!
The NCCP Coach Initiation course is mandatory for almost all staff positions at the WFRA, and carries a fee any other time. Take advantage now, and come join the fun!
Funding Received to Help Rebuild Association After Pandemic!
Posted August 09, 2022
In the spring of this year Ringette Ontario (RO) communicated out to the associations in the province that there was a funding opportunity available. The Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries of the Province of Ontario made funding available to aid in the rebuilding of our sport after the pandemic. There was a structured application process where associations that apply needed to clearly articulate how the money was to be used in specific ways.
As a member in good standing with RO our association was eligible to apply for the funding. We submitted our application prior to the deadline of May 20, 2022 and have received notice we have been successful in our application. We have received $9500.00 from this funding. The funds are to be split between two strategic initiatives West Ferris Ringette Association is focused on. The first is to support our Goalie recruitment and retention strategy by purchasing needed goalie equipment. The other half is to be used for marketing our association and our sport as a part of our overall recruitment and retention strategy.
On behalf of WFRA I would like to extend my thanks to Ringette Ontario and the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism, and Culture Industries of the Province of Ontario for this funding and their support in rebuilding our association and our sport.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
Northeast Region AA Development Program
Posted May 22, 2022
Hi Everyone,
I am not sure if you are familiar with the Northeast Region AA development program, so here is the information. There are links for the presentation, a sample budget and itinerary for what a typical camp looks like: NER AA Presentation NER AA Sample Itinerary NER AA Sample Budget
Players can join for the development at the camps and choose to try out for the team or not.
I was involved with the program for a number of years, and it was a great opportunity to meet the players from our region and gain exposure to a more competitive level of play. Attending these camps would be in addition to what is happening with the local team.
Please complete this form if you are interested in the 2022-2023 Northeast Ringette AA Program (U14 and U16 teams).
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the program.
Thank you,
Erin Johns – Rep Director WFRA
Fundraiser Event
Posted June 30, 2022
Our U14 rep team is hosting a fundraiser concert in a couple weeks to help offset team fees. Come out to Lou Dawgs, North Bay on July 14th, grab a bite to eat (maybe a pint?), and watch the cover band perform a variety of classic rock, country, pop, and alternative songs. Contact us to purchase tickets, or with questions/comments!
Happy Canada Day Weekend!
Posted July 2, 2022
On behalf of WFRA I am hoping everyone is having a great holiday weekend. Thanks to everyone who visited our activity at the Canada Day Kids Zone, and a special thanks to the WFRA members who volunteered their time to run the activity. I am told many people came by and there were lots of great opportunities to talk ringette!
Darren Pace, President WFRA
Rep Coaches Apply Now!
Posted June 25, 2022
The Rep Director is now accepting applications for Coaches for the 2022/2023 Ringette Season for the Fun 3 and U12 divisions. Coaches are required to hold or attain Coaching Certification. If you have any questions regarding certification please contact the Association Technical Director, Meaghan.
Bring your knowledge and experience of the ‘Fastest Game on Ice’ to our West Ferris Ringette Association players by submitting an application. You will be rewarded through the development of your team over the season both on and off the ice. Our Association has plenty of talent on the ice, and these players are waiting for Coaches to elevate those talents to the next level …. could that Coach be you in the upcoming season?
Hello Everyone.
Canada Day is fast approaching and with it is our community’s celebration at the waterfront. This will include the Kids Zone activities. On Friday July 1st we want to join the community and run an activity for kids and youth at the Kids Zone. The activity will run from 12:30pm-4:30pm, with preparation and set up taking place between 11:00am and 12:30pm. We have been invited by the organizers to take part, as they see the healthy development of the children in our region as a part of our mandate. We are in the process of completing the paperwork to join this activity and need to rally some volunteers! We have done this event before and typically bring some ringette sticks, rings, a shooting mat, pylons, and if we can, track down a small net. This lets the volunteers interact with the kids and their families by letting them pass the ring around, try and flip a ring onto a pylon, or try and shoot the ring. It’s a great opportunity for us to get the sport of ringette seen and create interest. If you are interested and available to run or participate in this activity on Canada Day please let me know. This year it is just the afternoon so it is a bit more manageable. In the past we have had families, older youth, and adult players/volunteers come out to run the event. Please let me know if you are interested and what support you might need to do the event. Not to worry, we have all the gear (except we might need to track down a net).
Hope you are doing well.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
WFRA Year End Banquet
Posted May 22, 2022
Hi everyone,
West Ferris is excited to announce the return of our year end banquet. The banquet will take place on May 26, 2022 @ 5:30PM, in the upstairs of the West Ferris Arena.
Pizza and milk will be provided to all of those who attend. We will have carnival games for the little ones and draw prizes for everyone to enter.
The team medals for the 2021/2022 season will be handed out, as well as the association awards.
Thank you,
Meaghan
Rep Team Tryouts
Posted April 26, 2022
UPDATES BELOW
*Please Note: May 7th times have changed.
Ramp App – open the event to see the details
The tryout, interest ice and conditioning ice events have been added to Ramp across several divisions since some players will be changing age categories or wishing to play up. Please open the event in Ramp to see the details to ensure that it applies to your player. Unfortunately, the first thing that appears on Ramp is the team name, so you have to open it to actually see the event (e.g. Rep U14 – Tryout U16 Rep Team 2022-2023 Season; Active Running – Tryout U14 Rep Team 2022-2023 Season).
Seeking goalies for house league and rep teams
We are actively recruiting goalies with very attractive incentives (details to follow). Please let hockey goalies you know (all genders) about these events – they may love the idea of more ice time!
The WFRA is pleased to announce the conditioning ice and tryout schedule for the 2022/23 season.
**Please note that B level, U10 (Fun 3) and U12 official team formation will occur in the late summer/early fall as per Ringette Ontario Guidelines.
The cost is $10 per tryout to be paid in cash at the time of the tryout. There is no cost for the conditioning ice or interest ice sessions.
Please be advised that any player that is planning on attending a tryout for a division that is outside their division based on age is required to also attend the tryouts within their own division. Please refer to the WFRA Rep Team Policy located on our documents page.
U12 (Players born in 2011-2012)
Interest Ice – come and see what the competitive program is all about!
Saturday April 30 @ 9:00am at Pete Palangio Kelly Official tryouts to be scheduled in the fall as per RO policy
U14 (Players born in 2009-2010)
Conditioning Ice – Sunday April 10/22 @ 5pm at Memorial Gardens
Tryout #1 – Saturday April 30 @ 10:00am at Pete Palangio Kelly *Tryout #2 – Saturday May 7 @ 5pm at Memorial Gardens
U16 (Players born in 2007-2008)
Try out #1 – Saturday April 30th @ 11am at Pete Palangio Kelly Additional Tryouts will be scheduled as required
U19 (Players born in 2004-2006) and 18+ (Players born in 2003 or earlier) *Try out #1 – Saturday May 7th @ 6pm at Memorial Gardens Additional try outs will be scheduled as required.
The ice is shared to maximize opportunity for scrimmage.
This will not be a combined team.
Should you have any questions about the Rep Program, please contact us.
We are looking forward to seeing you back on the ice!
NRS Summer Ringette Camp in North Bay
Posted April 13, 2022
Hi Parents,
Previously you had indicated an interest in attending a Summer Ringette camp in North Bay. We have been successful in securing Pete Palangio Arena this summer to offer a camp from July 4th to 8th, 2022.
To read complete details and register please use this link.
As this is the first year we are in North Bay, in a very long time, we have until May 10th to make a final decision based on the number of participants registered whether we will be able to run a camp. Therefore we ask that you please send this information along to everyone you know that might be interested in attending ASAP.
Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you might have.
Thank you,
The NRS Team
WFRA AGM April 27 @7pm/Call for Nominations
Posted April 13, 2022
The 2022 Annual General Meeting of the West Ferris Ringette Association will take place on Wednesday, April 27, 2022 at 7:00pm in the boardroom at Pete Palangio Arena. To encourage attendance at this AGM, we will be having a draw for those Association members in attendance (excluding Executive members) for a free registration for the 2022-2023 ringette season!
Below is a list of our candidates to date for the upcoming election being held at our AGM. At this time, any two WFRA members can still present nominations at or prior to the AGM. You can click here to download the AGM Nomination Form. Please send all nomination forms to WFRA Secretary Trina Palmieri at secretary@westferrisringette.ca.
Position
Nominee(s)
Term
President
Darren Pace
Open for 2 year term
Treasurer
Open for 2 year term
Equipment Director
Pam Voght, Caitlyn Stevens
Open for 2 year term
Rep Director
Marc Desroches
Open for 2 year term
Referee in Chief
Kyra Brownlee-Barnett
Open for 2 year term
Ice Director
Erin Johns
Open for 2 year term
House League Director
Open for 1 year term
Tournament Director
Chris Phillips
Open for 1 year term
Publicity Director
Jade Cayen
Open for 1 year term
Here is the by-law amendment request that will be voted on at our AGM. Please note we are not able to accept any other by-law amendment requests as per our WFRA by-law.
Current By-law 8.11 – Tournament Director: It shall be the duty of the Tournament Director to organize and coordinate the Association’s annual invitational tournament.
Proposed By-law Change: Requesting the title of Tournament Director be changed to Tournament Director/Director at Large and that it be responsible for the Tournament Director role in years WFRA hosts a tournament, and that the role be Director at Large in years WFRA does not host a tournament. The duties of the Director at Large will include attendance to Executive meetings, voting, and acting as a general support as needed to the other Directors.
Rationale: As we no longer run an annual tournament there is no specific utility in having a Tournament Director role in years WFRA does not host a tournament. The Director at Large role can be used as an ‘entry level’ Director position where the Director can support and shadow other Executive members to learn the roles and responsibilities of other Executive members so they can move into those roles in later years.
Hope to see you there!
Yours in ringette,
Darren Pace
WFRA President
Equipment Return Dates
Posted April 13, 2022
For those players and coaches who have borrowed equipment this season, please note there are two return dates scheduled for:
Saturday April 30 from 11am-12pm
Tuesday May 3 from 6pm-7pm
Returns need to be made to the WFRA office, located at the back of the West Ferris Arena (upstairs through the back door of the arena).
Thank you all for having your equipment cleaned and ready to be returned on these dates!
Ringette Ontario Vaccination Update
Posted April 15, 2022
Ringette Ontario strongly recommends that everyone eligible to be vaccinated is fully vaccinated prior to participation in any Ringette Ontario sanctioned activities. This is in line with the recommendations from the Ontario Ministry of Health that everyone who is eligible to be vaccinated, receives the approved number of doses to be considered fully vaccinated.
After careful consideration, and in consultation with various partner sport organizations and provincial regulations, effective April 18th at 12:01AM, the Board has elected to suspend the mandatory vaccination policy at this time and therefore, vaccinations are not mandatory in order to participate in spring tryouts and other sanctioned ringette activities in preparation for the 2022/23 season. Please note that any participant who is not fully vaccinated and chooses to register with Ringette Ontario must understand that, if mandatory vaccinations return by either Government or Ringette Ontario decision, they will be no longer eligible to participate. Associations who choose to form a team with participants who are not fully vaccinated, do so at
their own risk.
Should circumstances regarding COVID-19 evolve and dictate a change in our policy, Ringette Ontario will revisit this policy accordingly.
FAQ’s
Q: If my child did not register with RO for the 21/22 season but would like to attend tryouts, are they required to register with their local association? A: Yes. All participants must register and pay the RO player registration fee of $52 to be eligible to participant in tryouts and other RO sanctioned events for the remainder of the 2021-22 season. Please be advised that RO fees will not be reimbursed if participants register, and they are no longer eligible to participate due to COVID-19 restrictions including change in policy. Association registration or team fees are subject to association refund policies.
Q: If my child is unvaccinated, are they eligible to participate in sanctioned Spring Ringette leagues, and summer camps? A: Yes. Effective April 18th athletes will be eligible to participate in Spring Ringette leagues, camps and spring ice time hosted by associations if registered with Ringette Ontario for the 2021-22 season.
Q: Our Association is recruiting for vacant Board of Director seats, are we permitted to accept nominations from volunteers 18+ who are not vaccinated? A: Yes, but any participant who is not fully vaccinated and chooses to register with Ringette Ontario must understand that, if mandatory vaccinations return, they may become no longer eligible to participate in in-person events.
Q: Will try-outs still be required to occur in the fall? A: Ringette Ontario did not require fall try-outs; however, we have and continue to strongly encourage associations and regions to consider pathways to allow players to return to the sport closer to the competition season. As a reminder, final rosters are not required to Ringette Ontario until November 1st. Ringette Ontario does not support try-outs for any teams or players U12 and under in the spring season.
Q: Is masking mandatory? A: Ringette Ontario strongly encourages the use of a mask by all athletes, officials, coaches, and spectators in an indoor public setting. Masks are not required for athletes and officials on the ice but are strongly recommended for coaches while on the bench.
Applications Are Being Accepted for Rep Team Head Coaches
Posted March 15, 2022
The Rep Director is now accepting applications for A and B level Coaches for the 2022/2023 Ringette Season. The Rep team divisions are as follows: Fun 3, U12, U14, U16, U19, 18+. Coaches are required to hold or attain Coaching Certification. If you have any questions regarding certification please contact our association Technical Director, Meaghan Spykerman.
Bring your knowledge and experience of the ‘Fastest Game on Ice’ to our West Ferris Ringette Association players by submitting an application; you will be rewarded through the development of your team over the season both on and off the ice. Our Association has plenty of talent on the ice, and these players are waiting for Coaches to elevate those talents to the next level …. could that Coach be you in the upcoming season?
Eric Taschner
CTVNorthernOntario.ca Videojournalist
Published March 13, 2022
Throughout the weekend, North Bay has played host to hundreds of ringette players, coaches, fans, and officials for an end of the season regional championship.
The teams come from as far as Timmins and Sault Ste. Marie and even one competitor came all the way from Thunder Bay.
“The tournament is going great,” said Sault Ste. Marie Icehawks U10 player Ryleigh Marcellus. “For the final game, we’re not nervous. We beat the same team in the first game.”
Originally planned for a 2020 tournament, the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the players from lacing up their skates for two years. The games were deeply missed.
“We really haven’t been getting out for our tournaments,” explained Sault Ste. Marie Icehawks U10 player Jordyn Macknight-Slater. “Our tournaments have just been getting cancelled.”
Since Friday 28 teams from across Northern Ontario took to the ice in a total of 52 round robin matchups before 16 teams advanced to the semi-finals and finals Sunday.
CTV News Northern Ontario
At least 500 fans, players, coaches, and officials travelled to North Bay for the games.
“Just like listening to the play, the sound of the skates carve through the ice and hearing the players laugh you can hear that they’re having fun out there,” said tournament organizing committee spokesman Darren Pace.
Ringette was first conceptualized in North Bay by Sam Jacks in 1963. The sport has grown for young girls in Canada, the U.S., and Europe.
“He would be stuck for words.” Sam’s son Bruce Jacks told CTV News. “The game has been accepted in so many towns and cities and worldwide.”
For so many of these players from the age range of 5-9 as they start to get back to playing, it’s their first ringette tournament.
“It’s been really fun just hanging out with my friends,” said Sault Ste. Marie Icehawks U10 player Gabriella Nowitski.
There are nine teams in the youngest age division coming from North Bay, Sudbury, Walden, Valley East, Sault Ste. Marie, Iroquois Falls and Timmins.
“It’s been months of work but it’s been a few years of anticipation. We couldn’t be happier to have the tournament back here in North Bay, the birthplace of ringette,” concluded Pace.
As I am sure you are aware today marks a day that the Province has removed a variety of Covid pandemic and vaccine related restrictions that have been implemented until now by the Public Health Unit and the Corporation of the City of North Bay. However Ringette Ontario (RO) has decided it will not at this point make any changes to it’s Covid policy. This means the policy we have been working with since the new year is still in place. This includes the return to play guidelines for members who have tested positive for Covid and the expectation that all members participating in ringette related activities that are 12 years of age and older be vaccinated.
As the City is no longer monitoring these restrictions and our volunteer base is limited I am asking everyone to act in good faith and uphold this policy. Please keep in mind this is an RO policy, but that we in WFRA are responsible to live up to this policy as it relates to ringette activities. If we become aware of breaches of this policy we will inform the office of the Executive Director of RO of these breaches so that they may follow up on them as they see fit. If there are questions or concerns related to the expectations outlined in the policy please direct them to the Executive Director at Ringette Ontario.
I hope you are all doing well.
Daren Pace,
President WFRA
Volunteer for the Northeast Regional Championships
Posted February 21, 2022
Hello WFRA Members,
It is an exciting time at the WFRA as we plan to host the Northeast Regional Ringette Championships. We are looking for volunteers in the capacity of “Rink Hosts” to assist us in running the event. Games will be at Pete Palangio and West Ferris (Sam Jacks Complex) beginning at 9am on Friday March 11th and ending on Sunday March 13th at 4:30pm. The games on Friday and Saturday will end by 8pm.
Rink Host Duties include:
ensuring that teams complete and sign the game sheets
provide room keys to the teams
ensure the appropriate score sheet is provided to the score keeper assigned to that game (instructions and schedule will be available at the desk)
Collect the score sheet at the end of a game and communicate the score to the tournament committee (clear instructions will be provided)
Communicate with the tournament coordinators if there are any questions or concerns (contact information is available and someone is always available)
Please complete this Volunteer Rink Host form to be contacted to volunteer for this event. We appreciate any time that you can offer.
Sincerely,
The WFRA Tournament Committee
NER 2022 Minor Officials Application
Posted February 15, 2022
Hello Everyone!
With Regionals coming up we are getting started in finding Officials!
Below, I’ve attached the minor officials application for this year’s Northeast Regionals Championship, which is being hosted in North Bay from March 11th to 13th.
The Regionals Championship Tournaments is a good opportunity for anyone wanting to further their experience in officiating, and an amazing learning experience.
We will also be hosting a minors officials clinic at the end of February (more information to come). It will be mandatory for those of you that wish to work Regionals.
The 2022 NER Championship Application will close February 22nd.
Please reach out if there are any questions or concerns!
Thank you!
Kyra Barnett
WFRA RIC
GAME ON!
Posted January 30, 2022
As I am sure most of you have already seen, Ringette Ontario has given us the green light to get back on the ice this coming Tuesday! To ensure we are communicating the information about arena access in a consistent manner please refer to the City of North Bay Arenas page relating to arena access and numbers. If you have any questions regarding arena access that are not answered by the North Bay Arenas page, please contact the City of North Bay.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
Ringette On Deck!
Posted January 24, 2022
Hello WFRA Members,
As it relates to Covid restrictions we have new information from the Province of Ontario, and the Corporation of the City of North Bay. We are still awaiting final details from our Provincial Sports Organization Ringette Ontario (RO), however I am feeling confident that when the RO Board meets on Saturday they will be allowing us to play. With that in mind I am asking all players, coaches, and officials to be ‘on deck’ and ready to go if they are scheduled for Tuesday February 1st. I should get the final ‘go ahead’ sometime this coming Saturday and will update everyone then but wanted to give everyone the heads up so we are all ready to go!
We still need to keep in mind we are under a variety of restrictions including:
masks must be worn in the arena
everyone entering the arena who is 12 years of age and older must show their QR code and photo ID to verify their vaccine status to gain access
both Pete Palangio and West Ferris arena’s are allowing a total of 50 people on each ice surface so we should be good for players, coaches, and officials
I am told we will have change room access as before
Spectators are allowed – up to 75 people per side at Pete Palangio Arena and 150 total at West Ferris Arena
the city made a point of saying players should bring a filled water bottle so I am assuming this means no water access
So let’s all plan to be ready for Tuesday! We will post another message Saturday I hope to confirm we are all good to go. Please keep in mind as we all continue to live the pandemic life this could all change with very little notice, but lets all hang on to our optimism.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
Updates related to Covid 19 for the week of January 3rd, 2022
Posted January 4, 2022
Hello WFRA members,
Over the last several days there has been an influx of information regarding the Covid 19 pandemic, precautions being put in place, and vaccine expectations as it pertains to ringette in North Bay. First off there will be no ringette related activities until after at least January 26, 2022. The Province of Ontario has mandated closure of indoor sports and recreational facilities, which the City of North Bay has enacted. Due to these restrictions Ringette Ontario today announced the suspension of ringette related activities during this time. Secondly as a result of feedback that Ringette Ontario received about their position related to players aged 5-11 needing to be vaccinated by March 14 they have reviewed this policy and will be changing their position in this policy. The new expectation by Ringette Ontario is that all players aged 5-11 will be fully vaccinated by the start of the 2022-2023 season. NOTE: this is the position of Ringette Ontario and the Province of Ontario can set a deadline sooner than this and we, the ringette community, will need to follow that direction.
We will continue to communicate with you about how changes in restrictions will impact ringette in North Bay as we become aware of them.
I hope you are doing well.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
Ringette Ontario COVID Vaccine Policy Update
Posted December 30, 2021
Hello WFRA members,
We, the Executive of the West Ferris Ringette Association, are continuing to try and ensure we are giving you the most up to date information related to restrictions and limitations we are having to manage related to Covid 19 and its vaccinations. Ringette Ontario (RO), in it’s response to the latest access and expectations regarding Covid vaccination, released a statement outlining the following:
All participants of ringette aged 5-11 must be able to show proof of first vaccination by January 31, and proof of second vaccination by March 14, 2022.
In the RO statement they have included in their Covid 19 vaccine policy that all participants aged 12 and up must be double vaccinated 14 days before engaging in any RO sanctioned activities. Participants include players, coaches, major and minor officials, volunteers, employees, and contractors.
Furthermore, the City of North Bay has advised us that:
Beginning January 4, 2022 the only acceptable proof of vaccine (at recreational facilities) will be the QR code on a phone or in paper copy.
QR codes MUST be scanned and ID MUST be shown for entry into a recreational facility. NO QR code MEANS NO ACCESS.
As new information is presented to us we will continue to keep open communication with you, our membership.
Hope you are doing well.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
Xmas Skate, games cancelled until January 3rd
Posted December 18, 2021
Hello WFRA members,
I am afraid I must send out our regrets and apologies as we need to cancel the Christmas Skate we have scheduled for Sunday December 19, as well as all house league games and multi team practices between now and at least January 3, 2022. Single team practices are still allowed.
As you may be aware a new series of covid 19 related restrictions was announced by the Province of Ontario late Friday afternoon. This left the WFRA Executive with a lot of questions as to how this would impact ringette. That was answered this morning (Saturday December 18) when the Ringette Ontario Board of Directors met and has decided that all competitive on ice activities are to be cancelled until January 3rd when they will reassess. At that time they also ‘strongly recommended’ that all ringette activities except for single team practices be cancelled for the same time period. In that communication RO very clearly included all social events, games, multi team practices, and any between association events.
Once again I regret to cancel the Christmas Skate and any other ringette activities other than single team practices at this late date. The late afternoon announcement of new restrictions has left us all scrambling. I hope in spite of these new restrictions that you are all doing well and able to have a joyous holiday season.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
North Bay Arenas Vaccination Policy Update
Posted December 14, 2021
Hello WFRA,
There have been recent changes regarding proof of Covid vaccines that will impact arena access for our membership. As of December 20, 2021, in addition to previous proof of vaccine expectations, those players aged 12-17 will now have to show proof of double vaccination as well as ID to enter North Bay arenas. Checks will occur at the front door of each facility. Also the provincial QR code goes into effect in the new year and these will begin to be checked as of January 4, 2022. Please keep in mind these are regulations being put in place by the Province of Ontario that need to be followed by the City and our Association.
I hope you are doing well.
Darren Pace, President WFRA.
Strategic Pathway Policy Implementation: Safe Sport Policy and Athlete Protection Guideline
Posted December 12, 2021
At the West Ferris Ringette Association Executive meeting in November it was motioned and carried that WFRA would fully adopt the Ringette Ontario (RO) Safe Sport Policy and Athlete Protection Guideline. These approvals were in keeping with the WFRA Strategic Pathway that has been developed to implement a variety of changes being mandated by RO over the next four years. I strongly encourage everyone to take a look at these documents which will be available on our website, but will put some key points down here.
Many of the policy changes that are being implemented relate to the idea of risk management, and are being implemented to mitigate potential risks. In keeping with this idea the Safe Sport Policy and Athlete Protection Guidelines are being put in place to promote a safe sport environment for our athletes. The Safe Sport Policy focuses on how RO and WFRA are dedicated to providing a Safe Sport environment by in part making the Safe Sport principles a guiding focus. These principles were outlined in my last article and can be found in the Safe Sport Policy. The policy reiterates the importance of the already implemented Codes of Conduct for all stakeholders including players, executives, volunteers, coaches, parents, and officials. The Safe Sport Policy acts as a foundational policy to promote safe sport including those mentioned above as well as policies for complaints and investigation, harassment, discrimination, workplace violence, etc.
The Athlete Protection Guideline is one of the policy areas mentioned in the Safe Sport Policy. The key focus of this policy relates to those individuals referred to as Persons In Authority. A Person in Authority can be defined as an individual in the association who holds a position of authority including but not limited to coaches, volunteers, executive members, chaperones etc. The purpose of the Guideline is to help support Persons In Authority in ensuring athletes have a safe sport environment. The guideline reviews a number of key concepts related to a Person in Authority including the Rule of 2. To meet the expectation of the Rule of 2 teams or groups of minor athletes must always have a minimum of 2 persons in authority with them. If 2 persons of authority can not be present it is important to have 2 screened parents or other volunteers present. There should be a person in authority of the same gender identity as the athlete present/available. The guideline expands on these generalities to explore the role of Persons in Authority in specific sport related situations including communication, locker rooms, travel, photography, physical contact, as well as activities before and after practices and other events.
As families and volunteers we are dedicated to making Ringette a safe sport for all of our athlete’s. Please take some time to review these new policies. As we go forward over the next 4 years we will be implementing RO policies with some regularity and I will continue to update you, our membership, as we move forward.
Come Try Ringette For Free!
Posted December 7, 2021
The WFRA is having its mid-season Come Try Ringette For Free event on Saturday, December 11, from 1pm – 2pm, at the Pete Palangio Arena. The event is for age 4+, and to ensure there is enough equipment for everyone, please register before hand using our Ramp registration tool, although registration will also be available at the arena on the day of the event.
Come fall in love with the game of Ringette; it’s never too late to register for the season.
Northeast Regionals Accommodations Available to Book
Posted December 2, 2021
The Northeast Regional Ringette Championships are just around the corner, and everyone is getting excited! Accommodations are available for booking now, so please see the list of participating businesses below, and book now! Don’t forget to mention you’re here for ringette when you book with these participating hotels! Select a hotel for directions and bookings.
As we see increased social, political, and legal changes in our corner of the world we can see how this trickles down to the level of the Local Sports Organization (LSO). Since my start as President it has become very clear that there are many of these pressures prompting change at the National Sports Organization (NSO) level with Ringette Canada (RC), and the Provincial Sports Organization (PSO) level with Ringette Ontario (RO). These changes of course lead to us needing to change at the LSO level as WFRA. What I am trying to do with this document is take those parts of the Strategic Planning process that other organizations have done that impact us and create what I am calling a Strategic Pathway that allows us to have a plan. As a volunteer driven and run organization, WFRA has limited resources to manage these large scale changes so we need to be very diligent in our planning to deal with the strategic imperatives that RC and RO have decreed we implement.
The most common way to do a Strategic Planning exercise is to gather a representative group of executive members, volunteers, consumer parents, consumer athletes, and community partners and complete a Visioning exercise to create a Mission, Vision, and Values that then are used to lead and steer the organization for a determined period of time. However, we are going to have to do ours a bit differently because of the number of things we do every day as a LSO that are outside of our scope of power and influence. I do plan on doing such an exercise in the future but felt it was important to start out by declaring that which we already know about the direction we need to go before we articulate the areas that WFRA has influence over as an LSO and what direction we want to take with those items. With this in mind I will start things off by giving you some of the ‘strategic background’.
Ringette Canada Mission, Vision , Values
OUR MISSION: Ringette Canada is the national sport organization that governs, promotes, and leads the development of ringette.
OUR VISION: To be the world leader in growing ringette.
OUR VALUES: Ringette Canada has defined a core set of business values to enhance our work and strengthen our relationships. The following business values, along with our adherence to the True Sport principles, reflect our passion for, and our shared commitment to the sport of ringette.
Ringette Canada and the National Ringette League are True Sport members and adhere to the True Sport principles. More information on the True Sport Movement can be found at www.truesportpur.ca
WE BELIEVE IN:
Innovation: We invest wisely. We take chances and manage risks. We are stewards of the game.
Collaboration: We are in this together. We include diverse perspective to enrich our experience. We purposefully create a safe and welcoming work environment.
Accountability: When we live our values, we manage and lead with integrity. We operate with transparency and communicate proactively. We take responsibility for our actions and learn from our mistakes.
Respect: For the game. For the rules. For our heritage. For each other.
Excellence: We demand quality. We offer world leading programs and services. We bring our best to each situation
As the RC Mission, Vision and Values make mention of the True Sport principles I have decided to include those here as well.
True Sport
The True Sport Principles are a rallying point for True Sport members — they are universal. The principles can be brought to life in any sport at any level, from playground to podium. An Olympic rowing squad can embrace these principles with the same sense of pride and purpose as an elementary school, an old-timers’ league, or a community hockey arena.
For sport to be truly good and have the opportunity to make the greatest difference, all seven of these principles need to be in play at all times, working in perfect balance with one another.
Go For It
Rise to the challenge – always strive for excellence. Discover how good you can be.
Play Fair
Play honestly – obey both the letter and spirit of the rules. Winning is only meaningful when competition is fair.
Respect Others
Show respect for everyone involved in creating your sporting experience, both on and off the field of play. Win with dignity and lose with grace.
Keep It Fun
Find the joy of sport. Keep a positive attitude both on and off the field of play.
Stay Healthy
Place physical and mental health above all other considerations – avoid unsafe activities. Respect your body and keep in shape.
Include Everyone
Share sport with others. Ensure everyone has a place to play.
Give Back
Find ways to show your appreciation for the community that supports your sport and helps make it possible (from https://truesportpur.ca/true-sport-principles)
Now I will introduce the RO Vision, Mission, and Values. As you look at this you can see how the RC and RO versions compare and contrast.
Ringette Ontario
Our Vision: Ringette is recognized as a sport that builds Character through Community & Competition.
Our Mission: Ringette Ontario is committed to Nurture, Promote and Advocate for Ringette.
Our Values: Community, Collaboration, Character, Challenge, Competition
Now I will add what I have found so far in terms of the WFRA Mission and Mandate.
West Ferris Ringette Association
The mandate and long-term vision of the West Ferris Ringette Association is to foster, encourage and improve organized sport within the area under its jurisdiction, with an emphasis on RINGETTE; to provide the opportunity to participate in RINGETTE; giving due consideration to the individuals’ capabilities; to exercise general supervision and direction over all RINGETTE activities with emphasis on sportsmanship and good character; and to aid and assist others outside its jurisdiction in the development of young athletes, with an emphasis on RINGETTE, as well as the implementation of the Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) program. The focus of this program is to create RINGETTE programs, which are inclusive of all people of all ages and abilities, and to create supportive and developmental training to ensure confident, healthy athletes.
Ringette Ontario and its affiliates pledge their effort to promote fun, fitness and friendship in a safe play environment and are dedicated to quality performance and fair play opportunities for all ages. The West Ferris Ringette Association promotes player, coaching staff, parent and spectator codes of conduct.
The WFRA liaises with other sports organizations (Sport North Bay, North Bay Youth Soccer, North Bay Minor Girls’ Softball Association) in order to increase opportunities for community sport involvement and a healthier lifestyle for athletes of all ages. The WFRA facilitates/encourages new player opportunities by providing the Come Try RINGETTE for Free program, offering the lowest rates in North Bay for ice sports, and offering free equipment for the first season of league play. Our House League program offers teams for all ages with no travel required. Our competitive programs offer players of all ages the opportunity to compete against other cities, competing for regional and provincial championships. Thus, WFRA provides opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels
A final piece of the strategic background I want to add relates to Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD). This I find is a difficult topic to truly summarize but with some help I found the following summary on the Sport For Life website. The Sport4Life website is full of useful details regarding LTAD and I encourage everyone who has not already explored this to do so.
Long Term Athlete Development
Science, research, and decades of experience all point to the same thing: kids and adults will get active, stay active, and even reach the greatest heights of sport achievement if they do the right things at the right times. This is the logic behind the Long-Term Development Framework (LTD).
The Awareness and First Involvement pre-stages engage individuals in sport and physical activity, they must be aware of what opportunities exist and when they try an activity for the first time it is critical that the experience is positive.
The Active Start, FUNdamentals, and Learn to Train stages develop physical literacy before puberty so children have the basic skills to be active for life. Physical literacy provides the foundation for those who choose to pursue elite training in one sport or activity after age 12.
The Train to Train, Train to Compete, and Train to Win stages provide elite training for those who want to specialize in one sport and compete at the highest level, maximizing the physical, mental, and emotional development of each athlete.
Active for Life stage is about staying physically active through lifelong participation in competitive or recreational sport or physical activity. (from https://sportforlife.ca/long-term-development/)
Ok, so you can now see the strategic background as it relates to RC, RO, and WFRA. Now I think we have enough to move forward in terms of describing the Strategic Pathway. The Strategic Pathway that the WFRA Executive has been planning will encompass a variety of policies, processes, and expectations given to us by RO to implement over the next four years. We have a rough outline developed so far and once a well edited and formatted document is available we will share that with the membership. For today I just wanted to share some of the ‘big picture’ concepts related to the overall Pathway to set the stage for the items we will be implementing in the coming months and years.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
Volunteer Parents Needed
Posted November 27, 2021
Dear WFRA members,
I am reaching out to you today as we need YOUR help.
We are thrilled to be running the Northeastern Ontario Regional Tournament here in North Bay this coming March 11-13. Since our Tournament Director had to step down for personal reasons, we are calling on members to take on this leadership role. If you’re interested in either a leadership or support role, or just want to find out more about it, please reach out!
Our RAMP registration system will make the tournament coordonation easier than ever for teams to sign themselves up, for planning the games and for keeping score. This will be a team effort – there will be lots of help! Please consider this opportunity and feel free to reach out to me.
For those who have teens looking for some volunteer hours, we would love to hear from them. Their experience of going to tournaments can help make ours a tournament to remember!
I hope you are all doing well.
Darren Pace, President WFRA
Join Us at the Parade – UPDATE
Updated November 23, 2021
The Parade was a great success, with thousands lining the streets to enjoy the show this year. The WFRA would like to thank all our parade participants for making it a wonderful way to open the Christmas Season!
———
The North Bay Santa Claus Parade is happening on November 21 this year, and the theme is a Christmas Reboot.
The West Ferris Ringette Association will be there with bells on, and we hope you can come too. If you would like to join us and show your WFRA colours, you can find us at our meeting point, D-5 (Chippewa and High Street) at 11:30am.
There will be Parade Marshals there to assist everyone, and there will also be busses available to return participants back to Memorial Gardens.
A few pro-tips:
DRESS WARM
Wear your WFRA gear or team uniform
Bring a road ringette stick (save your ice stick for the ice)
Every month WFRA will be hosting a competitive night for players in this division who want to get out there and leave it all on the ice!
When? Thursday, October 28. 8:15pm-9:10pm
Where? Pete Palangio Arena
How? In order to play you must pre-register to be placed on a team.
We have to cap it at 30 players so please do not register if you are not intending on playing. We will be providing pinnies for the teams that evening. To register, we’ve created a workaround to include this optional event:
Sign in on the RAMP Registration platform (remember that this username and password may be different than that used for the RAMP Team App).
Select Clinic Registration:
Choose the “Clinic” (which is really our Competitive night) and continue to fill out relevant info until the last screen.
Click “Submit.”
Thank you,
Erin and the WFRA
Sport, Friends, Family, Community
Posted October 22, 2021
Since taking on the role of President of the West Ferris Ringette Association (WFRA) I have on more than one occasion begun to think about the culture of Ringette. What has the culture been, what is it now, and where does it need to go? I’ve taken a look at the Mission, Vision and Values of our leading organizations. This includes Ringette Canada, Ringette Ontario, the WFRA, Sport For Life, and True Sport. Many interesting points come out but none of them really articulate what I ‘see’ and what I hear others talk about. In the following post I will try and describe what Ringette means as a sport, to friendship, to family, and to our community at large.
Ringette is a great sport. I myself have two kids who have played in it for several years, my wife has been involved in the leadership of the sport almost from the time our kids got involved, and I myself have now stepped up to try and support the sport. Full disclosure, I am legally blind. My vision has slowly deteriorated over the last 30 or so years and I only mention it here as it tends to impact on how I describe my world. My early memories of Ringette were very visual. Watching our daughters as they learned to skate, as they picked up the fundamentals, as they slowly and consistently got better and better at the sport. As their skating got better the sport got faster and faster. It has been a joy to watch our kids develop. Each of the players is so unique. At one point I could tell who I was watching just by the way they moved when they skated. As time went on my enjoyment moved from the sights of the game to the sounds. Hearing the sounds of their skates crunching the ice as they would go from full stop to full speed then back again. Thank you power skating! The sound of a wicked stick check. Most importantly though was the laughter. Hearing the players laugh and shout as they played. Such wonderfully unbridled joy. That laughter symbolizing the essence of the development of their friendships.
We are a small community, the family of Ringette. Many kids join up before the age of ten and then they stay with that age cohort as they grow and develop. My one daughter is 20 now, and one of her best friends continues to be a player she first met when she was maybe ten. These friendships don’t just impact the players; the Ringette family transcends formal relationships. As my daughters have built relationships on their teams as they journeyed through Ringette so have my wife and I. Some are casual relationships, others are much closer. These relationships bring a lot of fun to our lives, occasional frustration, and sometimes even loss. I still find myself thinking of Ian more days than not. Sitting in the stands, waiting for the Zamboni to finally get off the ice so our daughters can get on and play. Sipping a coffee, talking about Ringette, family and life in general. Sorry for the inside reference, those who knew Ian know what I mean.
Ringette is a part of our family. A family that at times does not have clear boundaries. My kids got used to my disability, and honestly so did many of their friends. They make ‘blind guy’ jokes in the changeroom I am told. They and their friends find it equally amusing as players who don’t know me, and my relationship to the jokers, try and decide if they should be offended on my behalf. At times we become parents of a collective rather than a single family unit. A common theme at tournaments is the process of ‘family hopping’ as players leave one family group to join another for a specific outing; that unique experience walking into your hotel room at a tournament to find a room full of players and realizing none of them are yours.
Ringette is family oriented and family driven. All of the local people involved in the running of WFRA are part of the Ringette family in some way. Almost every volunteer is a current parent, current player, or past player. Without this family of volunteers there is no WFRA. Unfortunately our family of volunteers is shrinking. Our Executive Board has a variety of positions, and currently some are vacant. One notable empty space is House League Director, where we have managed to MacGyver a working group together of four key people who already have roles with the executive as well as roles as bench staff of various teams (Thank you again Meaghan, Erin, Marc and Kelli!). WFRA is scheduled to host the Northeastern Ontario Regional Tournament this year, the weekend of March 11-13, and we are without a Tournament Director to lead this process. We have had some success recruiting coaches and other volunteers to help with House League and Rep teams at most age levels, but we still have some notable gaps. Volunteering with WFRA can be a lot of work at times, but it can also be rewarding. Doing new things and meeting new people can be a lot of fun (seriously). Yes, there are some hurdles to jump to be a volunteer. To formally volunteer you need a Criminal Background Check. If you work with kids you also need the Vulnerable Sector Check. To coach you need to obtain certain certifications. However, once you have done these things you have the chance to lead, mentor, and guide the direction of WFRA and it’s players.
I have been interchanging the words ‘our kids’ and ‘our daughters’. I do this for a few reasons. When I say ‘our’ I am not referring to Kelli and my kids, I am referring to ‘our’ kids; that collective I mentioned. I interchange ‘kids’ and daughters because of what I see as Ringette’s history, it’s present, and it’s future. I have been a Mental Health Nurse for a long time now and have heard many stories of suffering. What I have seen in Ringette is a safe space for girls and women to be themselves and explore the world of recreational and competitive sport in that safe space. Our present includes the recent implementation of Ringette Ontario’s Trans Inclusion Policy. This policy goes beyond just Trans athlete inclusion and I feel continues the process of making Ringette a safe space for those who can benefit from that safe space. That safe space is now inclusive more specifically to our LGBTQ2S players and volunteers. The policy also opens the door in a more clear fashion to include players into girls, boys, or mixed teams. There are more steps that need to occur in this evolution of the sport, but the opportunities are here. Directions like this help identify and evolve the sense of community within the sport. Our Ringette community is a part of a larger community and region. Our local community has been quite supportive over the years with sponsorships, and a variety of fundraisers that help support our ability to provide our programs. We have goals to continue to expand on how we engage and interact with our community and region, but our current volunteer base can only do so much.
I hope we can all take a moment to consider what I wrote here today. Ringette is a great sport that continues to evolve. With increasing pressure from Ringette Ontario to adopt a wide variety of new policies and practices to be considered a Quality Ringette Program we need the support of our players and their families to continue to implement these changes and continue to provide the programming we currently offer, let alone to expand upon it. WFRA is a volunteer-led and run organization. Without continued support from our volunteers we can not provide our programming. I thank all of you who have volunteered in the past, or are currently volunteering. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please reach out to anyone on the Executive Board, we are all happy to discuss this topic.
Sincerely.
Darren Pace, WFRA President
Ringette Ontario High-Performance AAA Selection Camp This Weekend In Waterloo
Posted October 15, 2021
‘The Ringette Ontario High-Performance AAA Program is a competitive program that provides players with exposure to high level development opportunities as well as the best high-performance coaching in Ontario. The HP AAA Program allows Ringette Ontario selected coaches, including the Team Ontario bench staff, to identify and develop Ontario’s most gifted young ringette players, to encourage and motivate them to play for their province and to provide them with the opportunities to measure and refine their skills at the top-level competitions.’
WFRA has several athletes registered with the program, and we would like to wish them best of luck this weekend!
Rep Try Outs This Weekend
Posted September 22, 2021
Are you interested in taking your game to the next level?
The WFRA Association is pleased to bring back our competitive program for this season.
The WFRA has appointed the following head coaches:
U12 – Marc Desroches
U19A – Richard Michauville
18+A – Denis Sevigny
We are still accepting applicants for U14 and U16. If you are interested in coaching a team, please complete the following application form.
All Ringette Ontario sanctioned events are set to begin in January 2022. This means official tournaments arranged by Ringette Ontario.
The fall is considered the preparation phase, where teams can begin to condition and practice together, including having exhibition games and festivals with other teams as per Public Health Unit and Ringette Ontario guidelines.
WFRA has booked ice times in the month of September and October where players who are interested in playing competitively this season can attend and learn more about what it is all about.
The cost for each ice time is $10 per player payable in cash when you arrive.
The 2021-2022 house league season is on it’s way and the West Ferris Ringette Association is looking for interested members in becoming a head coach, assistant coach, on ice instructor or would like to assist with managing a house league team. The association relies on volunteers and coaches for a successful season.
If you are interested in helping out with the 2021-2022 house league season please complete this form.
If you are interested in coaching but would like more information, please contact us here.
House League coaches are required to complete the below throughout the season:
Completed the Coach Initiation in Sport Online Module
Making Headway eLearning Module
Respect in Sport for Activity Leaders
Sign the Bench Staff Code of Conduct
A recent Vulnerable Sectors Check within the last three years. (if you do not have a current one a link will be provided to you for one to be completed by Sterling Back Check)
On Ice Assistants are required to complete the below throughout the season:
Coach Initiation in Sport Online Module
Making Head Way eLearning Module
A recent Vulnerable Sectors Check within the last three years. (if you do not have a current one a link will be provided to you for one to be completed by Sterling Back Check)
All required courses are completed online and all cost associated with the courses will be reimbursed by the West Ferris Ringette Association.
If you are under 18 and are interested in assisting with House League please let me know and I will help you find a team to help coach this year.
Thank you,
Meaghan Spykerman
West Ferris Technical Director
WFRA Player Movement Requests
Posted September 10, 2021
Players registered with WFRA must make the request, be evaluated and approved to play in a division above or below their age group. As per the WFRA House League Policy, players and coaches can make the request and the process of player movement will be followed accordingly. There are many factors that are considered when assessing player movement including (but not limited to); age, experience, division combinations, skill level, and impact the movement will have on the milieu. Players must attend and be evaluated in the division that corresponds with their age.
We understand that there may be some confusion with the process of player movement, based some of the player movements that did occur last season, which was when we were operating under “exceptional circumstances” due to the Covid 19 restrictions and the return to play guidelines.
Please be aware that there may be divisions that are combined which may limit player movement opportunities for some players. Answers and approvals will be completed by the end of September. Please be patient while we work through all the of the requests.
Please complete the player movement request form by September 20th and include any questions or comments within that.
Sincerely,
WFRA
Donation Drive and Equipment Return
Posted August 26, 2021
The WFRA is asking to please return borrowed equipment from the 2020/2021 season:
Monday August 30 from 6-8pm
and
Thursday September 2 from 6-8pm
In the back parking lot of the West Ferris Arena
We are also asking for any donations for the equipment loan program. Specifically, we are in need of equipment bags, girdles, and gloves. *Please note that new equipment loans will be done at another date. Questions or comments are welcome.
REP SEASON 2021-22 Intent to Play!
Posted July 22, 2021
As we move forward with Stage 3 of re-opening and returning to competitive sport, the WFRA intends on running the rep program for the 2021/2022 season. We are currently working with Ringette Ontario to plan for this season and will be able to provide updates as they are known.
To assist with the planning, we are asking ALL players interested in trying out for and playing on a rep team for the 2021-2022 season to complete the WFRA Rep Program Interest Survey
It will take only a few minutes, but will be very helpful as we look ahead and prepare for our next season.
We are very excited to get back on the ice and look forward to returning to competitive play. Click here to take the survey now.
Thank you in advance,
Erin Johns
Rep Director
Rep Coaches, We Want You
Posted July 22, 2021
Our Association has plenty of talent on the ice and these players are waiting for Coaches to elevate those talents to the next level… could that Coach be you in the upcoming season?
The Rep Team Director is now accepting applications for A and B level Coaches for the 2021-2022 Ringette Season. The Rep team divisions are as follows: U10, U12, U14, U16, U19, 18+. Coaches are required to hold or attain Coaching Certification; if you have any questions regarding certification please contact us
Bring your knowledge and experience of the ‘Fastest Game on Ice’ to our West Ferris Ringette Association players by submitting an application. You will be rewarded through the development of your team over the season, both on and off the ice.
If you are interested in submitting an application, please review the coaching policy and application by clicking here, and complete the Coaching Application Form BY AUGUST 10, 2021.
We’ve secured Summer Ice time for scrimmages and conditioning. We want to hear from you, our membership, on preference for ice times during the month of August. Please fill in this quick 30 second survey and help us select ice times that work for the majority.
We are excited to open registration for the 2021-2022 season! We know that this season will look different, but we continue to work with Ringette Ontario, City of North Bay and Public Health authorities on a plan to return to the ice this season.
More than any other year, it’s important that we get a sense of how many players we will have this season. We are asking that players register online using RAMP. Similar to last year, should the season look different than usual, West Ferris Ringette Association will provide refunds to align with costs associated to the season.
Register by August 31st, 2021 and receive $25 OFF! (not included for 1st Time Player Registration)
Ringette Canada would like to invite ringette parents and guardians to attend an educational training session regarding Gender Diversity in Ringette on July 7th from 7-9pm EDT. This session will be bilingual.
Ringette Canada recently updated its Transgender Inclusion Policy to allow trans athletes to play on a team that corresponds with either their gender identity or their sex assigned at birth. The changes also make options more explicit for non-binary players who can participate on a team of their choice (male, female or mixed).
For many, transgender issues in sport are new territory. Concepts related to gender diversity may feel overwhelming or confusing. Ringette Canada is committed to providing education and resources to support the understanding and practical application of this updated policy.
This interactive and engaging session will be lead by Kai Scott from TransFocus Inc with support from Ringette Canada.
Topics will include:
Introduction to terms and concepts related to gender diversity;
Insights into the unique and often invisible challenges and barriers faced by transgender and non-binary people;
Information about the recent changes to Ringette Canada’s policy;
Practical consideration related to privacy, how to respond to concerns, change rooms and registration forms;
How to respectfully interact with transgender people (i.e. how misgendering happens, how to recover from mistakes, how to obtain pronouns, gender inclusive language, etc.)
Please note, webinars will be recorded and shared on the Ringette Canada website as a resource in the event you are unable to make it.
Pre-registration is required by 3:00pm EDT July 6th. Pre-registration can be found at the link below:
The link to the session will be emailed to you on the day of the session.
Any questions or concerns can be directed to Ringette Canada’s Safe Sport and Sport Development Manager at erin@ringette.ca.
Applications Open for RO High Performance AAA Program
Posted May 25, 2021
The Ringette Ontario High-Performance AAA Program is a competitive program that provides players with exposure to high level development opportunities as well as the best high-performance coaching in Ontario. The HP AAA Program allows Ringette Ontario selected coaches, including the Team Ontario bench staff, to identify and develop Ontario’s most gifted young ringette players, to encourage and motivate them to play for their province and to provide them with the opportunities to measure and refine their skills at the top-level competitions. These competitions may include the Ontario Winter Games (U19) and Canada Winter Games (U20), as well as potential future opportunities within the NRL, the Junior National Team and Senior National Team Programs.
Fully operate the High-Performance Ringette program in Ontario
Will be responsible for ensuring that coaches and athletes are executing the HP Program according to the outlined set standards
Select Coaching staff
Evaluate and select athletes for up to six (6) teams of eighteen (18) athletes that will compete at the 2022 Ontario Winter Games (OWG) and up to five (5) development teams that will attend the High-Performance Development Camps
*Note – number of athletes participating in the OWG’s has not been confirmed by the organizers at this time.
The HP Program development and administration will be led by the Ringette Ontario Technical Director and supported by additional part time staff, hired by Ringette Ontario.
SNB Sponsorship Opportunity to Coaching Summit 2021
Posted May 25, 2021
Sport North Bay is looking to financially sponsor three (3) coaches, [35 years of age or younger], to attend the Northern Ontario Coaching Summit at Canadore College, October 2-3, 2021.
In order to determine interested applicants, we are asking all potential coaches to complete the following and submit your answers to Sport North Bay’s email: info@sportnorthbay.ca by Tuesday, June 15th, 2021:
Please review the information promoting the Northern Ontario Coaching Summit being held at Canadore College on October 2-3, 2021. The links are:
Please provide Sport North Bay with the answers to the following questions so that Sport North Bay may gain an insight into your interest and coaching experience:
How long have you been coaching?
What attracted/inspired you to become involved in the coaching field?
Are you a secondary school student, a post secondary student, or working in a career? (education, health care, business, service, other)
Why do you feel that you would benefit from attending this conference?
How could you use the experience and knowledge gained from this summit in your personal coaching in the North Bay area over the next several years?
What other coaching, training and/or certificates have you previously obtained?
Would you be willing to attend a Sport North Bay meeting following the summit and share a brief summary of your conference experience?
Your Name:
Email:
Contact number:
Half a Century for the Birthplace of Ringette
Originally Posted February 26, 2021 in Le Voyageur
By Eric Boutilier, Le Voyageur
The West Ferris Ringette Association celebrates its 50th anniversary.
The organization, whose mission is to develop young players at the elite and recreational levels, is willing to resume its activities and take the opportunity to recognize all those who have contributed to the development of sport at the local level.
The association calls itself the birthplace of ringette. It was founded just a few years after the sport was founded by former North Bay Parks and Recreation Director Sam Jacks.
For just over 50 years, thousands of local girls have put on their skates and played ringette games on the city’s ice rinks. Some of them have even represented West Ferris at regional, provincial and national competitions.
The celebrations are postponed pending a return to normal. Leaders hope to be able to host formations for a regional tournament to mark the 50th anniversary.
“COVID has really disrupted our plans as we have planned to have a celebration with all of our athletes. We will have a late 50th celebration, only when it is safe to do so,” said West Ferris Ringette Association Competitive Team Coordinator Kelli Van Buskirk.
The West Ferris Ringette Association has played an important role in promoting physical activity and developing healthy habits for girls in the North Bay area.
Ringette was created at a time when there was no such thing as a winter team sport for them. Aspiring players – for the most part – were not allowed to play hockey in boys’ leagues.
Half a century later, some 300 players from Nipissing take part in the activities of the West Ferris association on an annual basis. In Canada, ringette has over 33,000 players. The sport is also played in several countries.
“The world of ringette remembers the Jacks family and their ambassadors, Sam and Agnes. The legacy is that the sport has been able to last for 50 years despite economic downturns and the emergence of other sports,” says Ms. Van Buskirk.
“Three years ago, a team from North Bay competed in the Eastern Canadian Championship. In 2013, Memorial Gardens hosted the World Ringette Championship,” recalls the former president.
“Ringette is a community and a family. I believe it is our heritage as a group.”
Closing of House League Season
Posted February 26, 2021
Dear friends and members,
With a heavy heart I am writing to share the news that our house league season has been brought to an end.
As you will know, on Friday the Province announced that the Stay-at-Home order has been extended for North Bay until March 8th. Following that the City of North Bay posted that they will be removing the ice from Pete Palangio and Memorial Gardens arenas, and will be getting in touch with all the rink users next week with more details about contract cancellation. And so we have no choice but to end our house league season.
Over the next week, the WFRA will calculate the prorated amount of registration fees for each player and we will offer a credit toward next season or a refund at request. Please be assured that we will get this information to you as soon as possible, but it’s a new challenge and it may take several days.
Thank you to all who responded to the survey we put out last week about options for continuing or extending the season. The high response rate made clear to us how much our membership values the sport, and while there were a few who felt it was time to close the season (and we respect that) the very large majority indicated that they were eager to continue.
To that end, we will continue to look at options to offer spring ice. This will, of course, depend on the provincial and municipal regulations as well as the availability of ice. But we will be looking at all options, and will be in touch to share with you what we’ve found, as we plan our way forward.
And before I close, a special note about the rep program: Ringette Ontario has previously announced that there will be no rep-team tryouts until September, and we are expecting more news on that in May.
Thank you for your enduring commitment to the sport of ringette. There are better days ahead.
Stay safe,
Erin Johns
Interim President, WFRA
National Ringette School – Starting July 10th in North Bay – Express your interest!
Posted February 15, 2021
The National Ringette School is finalizing their camp schedule for the summer of 2021 and have pencilled in a camp for North Bay! If there is a strong enough expression of interest, they will confirm the camp and camp dates (subject to COVID-10 restrictions, of course). Please click HERE for details.
Details of the National Ringette School program are available HERE and a description of the camp is copied in below, but here are the details for the (potential) North Bay camp:
Five day program, with a start date of Saturday, July 10 2021.
Daily program is from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Price: $455.00 Taxes not included, an installment payment plan is available (goalies are usually half price)
Required age: 6 – 17 on the day of the activity
At this point, the National Ringette School is gauging interest in a North Bay camp. Please add yourself to the “Wait List” to be added to the NRS mailing list. This will serve both as an expression of your interest in registering your player in a North Bay camp, and will also add you to the distribution list for notice of the camp’s confirmation (or alternatively, of other camp options if the numbers don’t support a camp being held in North Bay).
Please click HERE to express interest in the NRS hosting a camp in North Bay in July 2021.
National Ringette School (Ontario)
Ringette Camps Across Canada – We offer summer camps for various ages and abilities. Come learn from some of the best ringette players in the country.
Our 2021 Plan:
How the summer of 2021 will look is unknown. We are truly hopeful that we will be permitted to run camps this summer. We believe that there are many families and children that are longing to be back on the ice and back with their friends. This being said, the National Ringette School will be following all municipal, provincial and federal government regulations at each location. Therefore, we will be providing further instructions on procedures for attending camps once we are closer to those camp dates, as there will likely be some differences in how camps operate based on their location.
Our 2021 groups will be smaller than in the past. Previous years our groups were capped at 30 skaters and 4 goalies. This summer we will have a maximum of 25 athletes (23 players and 2 goalies) and up to 5 staff per group. These smaller groups will allow us to maintain a 30 person cohort, as this number was used in many locations as part of the previous restrictions. If the restrictions allow for larger cohorts then we will approach those on the waitlist.
Additionally, at our 5 day camps, we are increasing the amount of ice times (at most locations) to 15 ice times per group. Each group will receive 3 ice times a day. In general the ice times will incorporate the following:
First ice time will be high intensity and team centered:
Skating,
Ring touches,
Competitive drills, and
Game sense;
Second ice time will focus on more individual skills:
Shooting and passing accuracy and power,
Ring handling,
Skating agility and edgework;
Third ice time will be a split ice focused on strategy for one portion and controlled scrimmaging for the other. An example of the strategies that will be covered are:
Defensive triangle and channeling,
Breakouts,
Finding open ice to receive a pass,
Defending your opponents goalie ring,
Offensive zone plays, and
Goalie ring options.
For the off ice portion of camp we will be doing team building activities, as well as mental training and strategy sessions. We are adding more activities that allow for greater space between athletes, as well as elements of cross-training. For example: yoga, soccer, juggling, etc. Stay tuned!
A Backup Plan: We are also developing a secondary plan in the event that we are permitted to run only the on ice portion of camp. We realize that this scenario would be far from ideal and that it may prevent some families from participating as they may require full day childcare. However, we believe it is prudent to have this plan in place as well. If it comes to this situation parents will be given the choice to keep their child enrolled or to withdraw.
Covid Protocols and Policies
Prior to camp…
Initial protocols for each camp location will be sent out to parents and participants two weeks prior to camp. Then a final email will be sent 2 days prior with any changes highlighted.
Our camps will follow the provincial and municipal guidelines for each location. It is imperative that parents and participants understand that they will not attend camp if they are feeling unwell. A daily Covid attestation will likely also need to be completed.
These protocols will be reviewed with parents and participants upon drop off on the first day.
During camp…
Protocols will be reviewed with each athlete and parent upon sign in on the first day. Instructors will provide reminders throughout the day as well.
However, we reserve the right to remove any athlete or family from the camp if we feel that these policies are deliberately not being followed.
If an athlete develops symptoms of Covid throughout the day, that athlete will be asked to leave the camp. If the athlete is unable to return to the camp due to illness, refunds will be dealt with on a case by case basis. Contact us at questions@nationalringetteschool.com or 403-284-5161.
Update on Return to Ringette from WFRA
Posted February 10, 2021
While we were very hopeful that we would be returning the ice this Thursday, on Monday the Provincial government announced the Stay-at-Home order has been extended, which means no ice time this week. But we are on the list – currently – for an easing of restrictions in our area next week. When that happens, the next step will be word from the City of North Bay that arenas are reopening and then we’ll be back to ringette.
Our ice director is in regular contact with the City, and as soon as we get the green light to return to play we’ll get word to you, along with any tweaks to the schedule that may be necessary.
Hang in there. Maybe watch some ringette on the WFRA YouTube channel, shoot some rings in the driveway, and stay tuned for the good news that we’re heading back to the rink.
Stay safe – we are so looking forward to seeing all our players and coaches back on the ice!
Caution and Encouragement: Covid-19 Safety Reminders
Posted November 21, 2020
As COVID-19 numbers soar in some parts of the Province, and even our neighbours in Sudbury have been moved into the “yellow zone” due to the rising number of COVID-19 infections, WFRA wants to send a message of caution and encouragement to all our members: COVID-19 Safety measures must be maintained, and the City of North Bay’s rink rules must be respected.
We’re doing pretty well. There have been few incidents of the rules being broken or bent, and we’re proud of how flexible our parents and players have been, and how we’ve all been following these new rules and protocols, but we’ve also heard of a couple of hockey teams being barred from the rink due to NOT following the rules, and, well, we don’t want to go there.
COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions remain in place, as required by the City of North Bay, public health agencies, the Province of Ontario, and Ringette Ontario. Ringette Ontario requires that you attest to being COVID-free the day you participate in any ringette activities. (more on that below)
In addition to completing the attestation form before each session, please maintain the COVID safety protocols:
no sharing of food, drink or water bottles
maintain two metres of separation whenever possible
wear a face mask / covering
And we must all adhere to the following “rink rules” as issued by the city of North Bay:
Players must arrive fully dressed; their skates, helmet and gloves are the only equipment that should be left to put on after they arrive.
Players will be permitted in the building no earlier than ten minutes before their ice time begins.
Face coverings must be worn at all times by spectators and when athletes are not on the ice.
Players may remove their mask prior to getting on the ice; when masks come off, helmets go on and when helmets come off masks go back on.
One parent/guardian per player may stay to watch the game or practice; unfortunately, siblings and other friends and family members cannot be accommodated within the COVID rules
The warm area at Pete Palangio is now where the players put on and remove their skates and helmets; this is no longer the viewing area
The parent / guardian may watch the game from the benches in the rink and there will be signs to this viewing area; parents are not to stand board side.
The players will have 10 minutes to exit the arena after leaving the ice. There are signs to the exit to use.
Players are asked to not bring their large bags into the arena.
Daily Attestation Form
WFRA is now using a phone-based app for COVID attestations; you should have received an invitation from your / your child’s coach earlier this month with an invitation to use the app; if you did not receive this email, please ask your coach to resend it.
Please complete the Covid-19 Daily Attestation Form within 48 hours of the ice time using the online form, or within 24 hours using the RAMP app, but no later than three hours before the session.
Players, coaches and minor officials must all complete a COVID attestation form before each ice session; timekeepers and scorekeepers are to use the link on the WFRA web site.
Unfortunately, we cannot let any player who has not completed the daily attestation form on the ice.
Thanks in advance for your patience and flexibility as we all continue to manage through these procedures and requirements. And we’ll see you at the rink!
Message from the WFRA President
Posted September 11, 2020
Hello WFRA members!!!
In these uncertain times, the West Ferris Ringette Association has two top priorities: keeping our players and volunteers safe, and keeping our membership informed as we work through the steps to return to the ice. Through our communications, messages from myself, and our upcoming “virtual” town hall on September 13th we want to keep all of our players and parents informed.
Registration for the 2020-2021 season remains OPEN. Many of you have already registered – thank you – but our numbers are still somewhat below the norm for this time of year, no doubt due to COVID-19 related uncertainties. We are now heading back on the ice and it is important that all players are registered by September 14th so that their insurance is in place and we can form divisions that accurately reflect our numbers. Registration fees have remained unchanged from last season, and we are reasonably confident that the season will run its full duration. Payment options are available and are described on the RAMP registration system. (click HERE)
Our approach to this season’s start up is to follow the Ringette Ontario “Return to Ringette Guidelines” that layout a 5-stage process to ultimately return to 5 on 5 play (this will include our regular house league play, and rep team / tournament play later in the season). The Return to Ringette Stages are as follows:
The full Ringette Ontario Guidelines can be viewed HERE
WFRA recently announced that Kelli Van Buskirk has volunteered to act as our COVID Safety Leader (CSL), helping us return to the ice safely and in accordance with Ringette Ontario and all Public Health requirements. We are very grateful for Kelli’s help as we develop our association protocols and organize to meet the numerous requirements.
A huge shout out to Kelli and the Return to Ringette Committee for their hard work on our Return to Ringette package! As many of our members are aware, Ringette Ontario has confirmed and approved our application to resume ringette activities, under COVID-19 related guidelines. We are fully immersed in Stage 2 which allows our programming to focus on individual training, dry-land, drills/skills and practicing. This will allow participants to safely get back on the ice while adhering to Ringette Ontario, facility and local health regulations. This stage will emphasize smaller groups and focus mainly on the development of the fundamental skills of the sport.
We are currently in the process of completing the RO Stage 3 requirements and are optimistic that approval will be in place this upcoming month which will allow for modified games – such as 3 on 3 and 4 on 4 – and will continue to follow the Return to Ringette Guidelines. It is important to also note that progression through the Stages is based on the continued requirements and conditions established by Ringette Ontario, the Province of Ontario, our Local Public Health Unit, and the City of North Bay.
We recognize that many of our membership may have questions related to the COVID-19 precautions that will be put in place by the Association, RO and the City of North Bay. Our Return to Ringette WFRA guidelines will include protocols for players, parents, and coaches, as well as incident response plans, and will be available to all members. Protocols will include, for example, self-screening attestations prior to stepping on ice, and physical distancing.
As we move through Stage 2, a Return to Ringette Town Hall is scheduled for September 13, 2020 @ 6:30pm via Zoom to review the Association guidelines and answer any questions from our membership. Please register HERE. Details will also be posted on the WFRA web site and Facebook page.
Please know whichever RO Stage we are in, the WFRA intends to deliver a program that continues to build ringette skills in a manner that is safe to all participants while focusing on fun, fitness, and friendship! We are looking forward to seeing everyone back at the arena in the upcoming months and at the Town Hall on September 13th.
Sincerely,
Dee Johnson
President, WFRA
Ringette Ontario: Return to Ringette Update
Posted September 3, 2020
Ringette Ontario would like to thank all of our members for their commitment and support during this time. Our wonderful Associations, COVID Safety Leaders (CSLs) and volunteers have been working tirelessly to get everyone back on the ice in the safest way possible. Our players, coaches and officials have also been working hard off the ice and preparing for the season.
As we start the 2020-2021 season, we encourage you to do your part and stand #ALLIN with Ringette Ontario. With your help, ringette will continue to be a sport that is focused on unity, community, inclusion and collaboration.
Annual Report: Ringette Ontario recently released our 2019-2020 Annual Report. Read our report to see what we accomplished last season and our plans for the 2020-2021 season.
Athlete Advisory Committee (AAC) Applications: The AAC is looking for ringette players to join our Athlete Advisory Committee. The Committee acts as an informed advisor to RO on the implementation of policies and initiatives focused on athletes. Visit https://ringetteontario.com/the-athlete/aac/ for more information and to apply.
Return to Ringette:
RTR Update: Ringette Ontario is now in Stage 2 of our Return to Ringette guidelines. Associations are submitting their Stage 2 RTR Plans for approval to the RO Office. We are so impressed with all the hard work that everyone is doing to make sure they are prepared before they conduct any on-ice training or activities. There have been some outstanding examples of creativity and forward-thinking! We ask that everyone please be patient with your volunteers and see where you can support and help out!
RTR Resources: For further information on Ringette Ontario’s Return to Ringette framework, resources and plans, please visit https://ringetteontario.com/rtr-covid19/.
Coaching:
Modified Bench Staff Requirments: As we enter stage two of our RTR guidelines, please make note of the modified requirements for bench staff. Coaches can find a complete overview online.
National Coaches Week: Ringette Ontario will be celebrating and highlighting coaches in our community from September 19th – 27th! If you know a coach that has displayed teamwork and leadership and deserves some recognition, email us.
Officiating:
Registration: Stay tuned for information and updates on registration.
Safe Sport:
Safe Sport Course: Take the free Safe Sport Training online! The Safe Sport Training module developed by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) will help anyone involved in sport identify and prevent situations of maltreatment. Take The Course Here: https://safesport.coach.ca/
Rule of Two (Online): The goal of the Rule of Two is to ensure all interactions and communications between participants in sport are open, observable, and justifiable. As our interaction with one another increases online, please read some recommendations for implementing the rule of two in virtual settings: Rule Of Two Online
Resources:
‘Team Talk’: ‘Team Talk’ shares real stories from real athletes about ringette, life, multitasking and representation. Watch Now!
RO Apparel: Get your Ringette Ontario Gear! Visit https://hometownrivalry.com/ for masks, t-shirts, hoodies and more.
If you have any questions about the information provided in this newsletter, please contact Ringette Ontario at info@ringetteontario.com
WFRA COVID-19 Safety Lead
Ringette Ontario requires each Association to designate a COVID-19 Safety Lead who is responsible for confirming that the Association and our players and parents are following safety requirements. WFRA has designated our Registrar, Kelli Van Buskirk, as our COVID-19 Safety Lead.
Return to Ringette Waivers
Waivers related to a return to ringette while COVID-19 related safety measures remain in place have been incorporated into the RAMP online registration process. If you registered before August 15th you will have received an email with the subject line “West Ferris Ringette Association: Waiver Signatures Required”. Please search for the email and open the link to sign the required waivers.
Ringette Ontario: Return to Ringette Update
Posted September 3, 2020
Ringette Ontario would like to thank all of our members for their commitment and support during this time. Our wonderful Associations, COVID Safety Leaders (CSLs) and volunteers have been working tirelessly to get everyone back on the ice in the safest way possible. Our players, coaches and officials have also been working hard off the ice and preparing for the season.
As we start the 2020-2021 season, we encourage you to do your part and stand #ALLIN with Ringette Ontario. With your help, ringette will continue to be a sport that is focused on unity, community, inclusion and collaboration.
Annual Report: Ringette Ontario recently released our 2019-2020 Annual Report. Read our report to see what we accomplished last season and our plans for the 2020-2021 season.
Athlete Advisory Committee (AAC) Applications: The AAC is looking for ringette players to join our Athlete Advisory Committee. The Committee acts as an informed advisor to RO on the implementation of policies and initiatives focused on athletes. Visit https://ringetteontario.com/the-athlete/aac/ for more information and to apply.
Return to Ringette:
RTR Update: Ringette Ontario is now in Stage 2 of our Return to Ringette guidelines. Associations are submitting their Stage 2 RTR Plans for approval to the RO Office. We are so impressed with all the hard work that everyone is doing to make sure they are prepared before they conduct any on-ice training or activities. There have been some outstanding examples of creativity and forward-thinking! We ask that everyone please be patient with your volunteers and see where you can support and help out!
RTR Resources: For further information on Ringette Ontario’s Return to Ringette framework, resources and plans, please visit https://ringetteontario.com/rtr-covid19/.
Coaching:
Modified Bench Staff Requirments: As we enter stage two of our RTR guidelines, please make note of the modified requirements for bench staff. Coaches can find a complete overview online.
National Coaches Week: Ringette Ontario will be celebrating and highlighting coaches in our community from September 19th – 27th! If you know a coach that has displayed teamwork and leadership and deserves some recognition, email us.
Officiating:
Registration: Stay tuned for information and updates on registration.
Safe Sport:
Safe Sport Course: Take the free Safe Sport Training online! The Safe Sport Training module developed by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) will help anyone involved in sport identify and prevent situations of maltreatment. Take The Course Here: https://safesport.coach.ca/
Rule of Two (Online): The goal of the Rule of Two is to ensure all interactions and communications between participants in sport are open, observable, and justifiable. As our interaction with one another increases online, please read some recommendations for implementing the rule of two in virtual settings: Rule Of Two Online
Resources:
‘Team Talk’: ‘Team Talk’ shares real stories from real athletes about ringette, life, multitasking and representation. Watch Now!
RO Apparel: Get your Ringette Ontario Gear! Visit https://hometownrivalry.com/ for masks, t-shirts, hoodies and more.
If you have any questions about the information provided in this newsletter, please contact Ringette Ontario at info@ringetteontario.com
Message from the WFRA President
Posted July 23, 2020
To all WFRA Members,
I hope everyone is safe and well, and adapting as best they can to our “new normal” during these unusual times. I wanted to touch base with our members and let you all know… WE MISS YOU! I also wanted to provide some insight into the Associations’ 2020-21 planning. We are slowly starting to learn more about what Ringette may look like in the fall, and are working behind the scenes to ensure that we provide our members with a compelling, fun, and safe Ringette experience when we are all able to return to the ice.
Currently, all team sports are evaluating the necessary safety and Return to Play protocols being advised by local health authorities, municipalities and sport governing bodies. Both Ringette Canada and Ringette Ontario published their own comprehensive recommendations for Ringette’s return to play. We encourage all of our members to review Ringette Canada’s National Direction for Return to Ringette and Ringette Ontario’s Return to Ringette COVID-19. We will be including these links to access these documents along with additional Return to Ringette resources on the homepage of our website within the upcoming weeks.
As outlined in the Ringette Ontario guidelines:
The Return to Ringette Guidelines are founded on the overriding principle of encouraging and providing a safe environment for all participants, team members and volunteers. The Return to Ringette Guidelines seek to allow the maximum amount of participation possible for all members of the organization while adhering to Provincial Health regulations.
The WFRA welcomes this approach, and our Executive continues to stay active and engaged with Ringette Ontario, and the other North East Region Ringette associations, our local Public Health, and municipality. Although Ringette Ontario has made the decision to suspend all sanctioned events until January, we are pleased that they have demonstrated strong leadership and are supportive of a flexible, creative and cautious approach to Return to Ringette.
The health and safety of our families and community members continue to be our top priority. Our Executive team will utilize the latest available information and consider the various scenarios and Return to Ringette stages as we develop our 2020-21 season plan. Based on information and feedback we have collected, we are expecting the large majority of our members will return this season, and we are hopeful that we can start some form of programming in September. Please note, our registration is currently open, and we look forward to sharing with you the latest information on our programming plans for all ages and levels of play closer to that date.
Finally, please don’t hesitate to contact us to share your feedback and questions. We’d love to hear from you and appreciate your efforts to stay connected with our Ringette community during these unprecedented times. We will continue to share all of the latest information from Ringette Ontario on our Associations’ website and through our various social media channels, so please be sure to visit these sources regularly. We are all very excited about the better days ahead. Regardless of how different Ringette may look in the short term, welcoming sport back into our daily lives will be an important milestone to be celebrated.
Sincerely,
Dee Johnson
President, WFRA
WFRA COVID-19 Safety Lead
Ringette Ontario requires each Association to designate a COVID-19 Safety Lead who is responsible for confirming that the Association and our players and parents are following safety requirements. WFRA has designated our Registrar, Kelli Van Buskirk, as our COVID-19 Safety Lead.
Return to Ringette Waivers
Waivers related to a return to ringette while COVID-19 related safety measures remain in place have been incorporated into the RAMP online registration process. If you registered before August 15th you will have received an email with the subject line “West Ferris Ringette Association: Waiver Signatures Required”. Please search for the email and open the link to sign the required waivers.
General Health & Safety Guidelines
If any participants have experienced any symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, fever, shortness of breath, they must not attend activities for 14 days.
If bench staff have come in contact with someone experiencing these symptoms, they are not permitted to attend for 14 days.
All members must adhere to all health agency & safety regulations
All members must adhere to facility capacity restrictions
All players should arrive and leave as per facility regulations
Wash hands/hand sanitizer frequently and follow facility regulations
No spitting
No chewing tobacco, no sharing of vapes or other tobacco products
No sharing of water bottles. All participants MUST have individual water bottles
No sharing of any ringette gear
No touching or hugging
Elimination of handshake – Wave to opposition or “air” high fives – salute Referees & say Thank you
Coaches, athletes and officials should keep rings, equipment and other objects required for play in a clean, separate space at their own homes.
Items should be clean and sanitized frequently.
All participants should carry wipes, hand sanitizer OR pump soap in their equipment bags
Coaches/Bench Staff should carry extra PPE (masks, hand sanitizer, gloves) in case someone forgets theirs
Participants should avoid handling equipment with their bare hands
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