Warning for updates to the LAYHA By-Laws to be modified at the next LAYHA board meeting on Wednesday April 17th at 6:30 PM at the American Legion on Maple St in St Johnsbury. The following text in red bold italics will be modified:

The Corporation's goal for its teams competing at the 8U, 10U, 12U, and 14U levels is to provide equal ice time to all members, so that each individual has the opportunity to improve and hone his or her skills. Winning "at all costs" at these age levels is not part of our philosophy, but winning as a result of good work ethics, positive attitudes, teamwork, and a good basic knowledge of the game should be emphasized.

When demand is sufficient, the Corporation intends to offer teams competing at the 16U and/or 18U levels. It is the intent of the Corporation that teams competing at the 16U and 18U levels will be preparatory in focus, designed to complement participation in a high school ice hockey program. As such, some components of high school athletics are incorporated into teams competing at these levels. The activities of any programs offered by the Corporation at the 16U and 18U levels will defer to local high school hockey program participation during the Vermont Principal’s Association winter sports season (generally the Monday after Thanksgiving through the beginning of March). While the aim will continue to be upon improving and honing individual skills, the philosophy at the 16U and 18U levels will incorporate increased focus on team play and unit functionality.

At the discretion of the Board of Directors, the Corporation may offer a designated “select” team at the 16U and 18U level. Competitiveness of the team will be a consideration when designating a “select” team. The Corporation is not obligated to offer an alternative team when designating a “select” team at any level.

When offered, a “select” team will be comprised solely of participants that were evaluated in a try-out process. A team designated as “select” must be comprised of a minimum of 10 participants. If following a try-out process, there are insufficient participation levels to meet this number, then a “select” team will not be offered in the coming season. 

Participants assigned to a “select” team must have participated previously in a program offered by the Corporation. Only the Board of Directors may offer an exemption to this requirement.

For “select” designated teams, coaches will be afforded latitude in determining ice time during games. It is understood that over the course of a season, playing time for all participants will not be equal. Notice of the possibility of an ice time disparity shall be given to all participants as well as a parent/guardian at the start of the season.

Factors that may be considered in determining ice time may include, but not be limited to: performance during practice sessions, in-game performance, attendance, participant attitude, and in-game tactical decisions. While variations in playing time are expected to occur, it will not be acceptable for an otherwise healthy participant to receive no playing time, or minimal ice time, when they dress for a game.