Elite Hockey Governance Update

Subject: Update on Governance Structure for Elite Hockey Streams

Dear Members of the Grande Prairie Minor Hockey Association (GPMHA),
Grande Peace Athletic Club (GPAC), and Peace Country Female Athletic Club (PCFAC),

We are writing to share an important update regarding the governance structure of our elite hockey streams and the direction we are taking as an association.

After thoughtful discussion and collaboration between GPMHA, GPAC, and PCFAC leadership, we have agreed to move forward with a revised board structure for our elite programs. This evolution reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the delivery of hockey in our community and ensuring we are aligned, efficient, and responsive to our members.

What is Changing

The elite streams (GPAC and PCFAC) will transition away from operating as independent executive boards. Moving forward, they will be structured as Boards of Directors supported by dedicated committees, with clearly defined roles and responsibilities.

Each elite stream will include:

• A Vice President (VP) and Technical Director (TD) responsible for leadership and program delivery
• Supporting Committee Chairs and Committees focused on key areas such as player development, coaching, operations, and recruitment
• Direct reporting lines from the VP of the elite streams to the GPMHA Executive Board

Why This Change is Important

This new structure is designed to bring several key benefits to our association and its members:

1. Improved Transparency
   A unified reporting structure ensures that decisions, priorities, and actions are clearly communicated across all levels of the organization. Members will have greater visibility into how decisions are made and how programs are managed.
2. Stronger Collaboration
   By aligning the elite streams more closely with GPMHA, we create a more collaborative environment where resources, knowledge, and best practices can be shared. This strengthens both our elite and grassroots programming.
3. Clear Accountability
   Defined roles for the VP, Technical Director, and supporting committees ensure accountability at every level. This clarity allows for more effective leadership and decision-making.
4. Streamlined Communication
   With direct reporting to the GPMHA Executive, communication becomes more efficient. This reduces duplication, eliminates silos, and ensures that information flows consistently across the organization.
5. Enhanced Member Experience
   Most importantly, this structure allows us to respond more effectively to the day-to-day needs and concerns of our members. Whether it is player development, coaching support, or operational questions, we are better positioned to provide timely and consistent responses.

Looking Ahead

This transition represents a positive step forward for hockey in Grande Prairie and the Peace Region. It allows us to build a stronger, more unified organization that supports players, coaches, and families at every level.

Over the coming weeks, we will continue to define committee roles, confirm leadership positions, and communicate further details as we implement this structure. We encourage members who are passionate about contributing to the success of our programs to consider getting involved at the committee level.

We thank you for your continued support and commitment to creating a positive, development-focused hockey environment for all participants.

Sincerely,
Grande Prairie Minor Hockey Association (GPMHA) President Nabeel Smiley
Grande Peace Athletic Club (GPAC) Vice President Rodney Hoath
Peace Country Female Athletic Club (PCFAC) Vice President Randy Utz