Welcome to the 2025–2026 U9 KMHA House League Season!
Dear U9 House League Players, Parents and Guardians,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2025–2026 U9 hockey season with KMHA! Whether your child is just starting their hockey journey or returning for another year, we’re so glad to have you in the KMHA family. Our mission is to provide a fun, safe, and developmentally appropriate experience for all players as they continue to grow their skills, confidence, and love for the game.
A Bit About Me
My name is Jody Rantala, and I’m excited to return as your U9 House League Convenor for this season. I’ll be overseeing the day-to-day operations of the U9 program, which includes players born in 2017 and 2018.
Hockey has been a lifelong passion of mine. I grew up in Northern Ontario in a hockey-loving family and played many years of competitive hockey myself. Today, I’m a proud KMHA hockey mom to two young players— Ollie in U9 and Mikko in U7. I’m also an elementary school teacher, which gives me a strong understanding of how to connect with kids at this age and help them thrive both on and off the ice.
What drives me in this role is the opportunity to watch young players build friendships, develop their skills, grow in confidence, and most importantly—have fun. I want every child to leave the rink with a smile and a sense of accomplishment.
Getting the Season Started
To kick off the season, we will begin with optional Pre-Skates followed by mandatory Sort-Outs. These sessions are designed to help your child shake off the summer rust and ensure players are placed on teams that match their skill level—helping us create balanced and enjoyable teams for the season ahead.
You should have received an email with your child’s specific ice times. If not, please check your junk/spam folder. Still can’t find it? Just email me and I’ll make sure you get the info.
📅 U9 Pre-Skate Schedule
Each player will receive 4 hours total (1 hour per day)
- September 6, 2025: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Tony Graham Rec Center (A)
- September 6, 2025: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM – John G. Mlacak
- September 7, 2025: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tony Graham Rec Center (A)
- September 13, 2025: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Minto Rec Center Barrhaven (North)
- September 14, 2025: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tony Graham Rec Center (A)
🟥 Sort-Out Schedule
Each player will receive 4 hours total (1 hour per day)
- September 20, 2025: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM – John G. Mlacak (Skill Session)
- September 21, 2025: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Bell Sensplex Brokerlink (Skill Session)
- September 27, 2025: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM – John G. Mlacak (Scrimmage 1)
- September 28, 2025: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Tony Graham Rec Center (A) (Scrimmage 2)
Volunteers Make It Happen
Most of the roles in KMHA such as convenor, coaches, trainers are 100% volunteer-run, and September is one of the busiest times of the year as we work behind the scenes to organize teams and make everything run smoothly.
Please be kind and patient with all volunteers during this process—we are all doing our best to make the experience a great one for your players.
I will be sending out volunteer sign-up opportunities in early September. Whether it’s helping on the ice, greeting players at the door, organizing equipment, or lending a hand with data entry—every little bit helps, and your involvement is always appreciated.
Getting Ready to Hit the Ice
Please ensure your child arrives at the rink ready to go—with full equipment, a positive attitude, and a big smile. We can’t wait to see the energy and excitement your players bring to the ice!
If you have any questions along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’ll do my best to respond as quickly as I can.
Thank you for being a part of the U9 program and the greater KMHA community. I’m looking forward to a season full of growth, fun, teamwork, friendships and great hockey memories for all of our players and families.
See you at the rink!
Jody Rantala
U9 House League Convenor – KMHA
u9convenor@kmha.ca