Aug 01, 2025 | Webmaster | 235 views
A Year of Growth and Change: Highlights from SCFHA’s 2025 Annual Meeting
SCFHA 2025 Annual General Meeting Recap
A Year of Growth, Change, and Celebration
On Sunday, June 22, 2025, the St. Catharines Female Hockey Association (SCFHA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM). The AGM included a comprehensive review of the past season, key updates to the organization’s governance, election of the 2025–2026 Board of Directors, and plans for the year ahead. Retiring board members were recognized: Ryan Robitaille, Gord Bell, Jill Davis, and Rosie Warner, as well as the new directors were elected and a year in review was shared.
The minutes from the previous AGM were made available on the SCFHA website and were approved unanimously. No business arose from the previous minutes.
Financial Highlights
Treasurer Cory Brunarski presented the 2024–2025 Financial Report and proposed the budget for 2025–2026. The organization continues to maintain healthy financial standing. The full financial report will be available online or by request.
Season in Review – President’s Address
Outgoing President Ryan Robitaille gave a heartfelt and detailed year-in-review address. He reflected on the growth and evolution of SCFHA, noting that the 2024–2025 season saw the highest number of Rep and House League teams in the association’s history. Teams across all age levels achieved success both on and off the ice, including tournament championships, league titles, and provincial gold medals.
Player development remained a top priority. Rep teams received structured development sessions above their regular ice times, while House League teams also benefited from targeted programming despite scheduling challenges. Goalie development, led by Luc Lobsinger and other specialists, was highlighted as a continued focus. The successful third annual Influencer Festival and multiple tournaments showcased SCFHA’s organizational strength and community engagement, thanks especially to Trish O’Neill and the Tournament Committee.
Ryan acknowledged the tremendous behind-the-scenes efforts of the administration team, particularly Cory and Grace, for managing tryouts and OWHA processes smoothly. For the first time in SCFHA history, over 100 players were not placed on teams due to high numbers—strengthening the base of the HL program for the upcoming season.
The second year of the High Performance Development Program (HPDP) was a success, featuring four AA teams and a U9 A team. The streamlined registration and strong direction helped solidify Niagara’s place as a viable destination for elite female hockey. SCFHA families can now stay local while playing at the highest levels in Ontario, with Ryan affirming that “without year one, there would never be a year ten.”
Partnerships with Brock Women’s Hockey remained strong. The U9 and U11 summer camps, the Influencer Festival, and the annual Jr. Badger Night game against Windsor created lasting memories for young players and strengthened community ties.
SCFHA’s grassroots efforts also thrived through First Shift, Second Shift, and IP Development, supported by Kaitlyn Colonna and Brock University. More than 40 new players benefited from equipment and on-ice sessions designed to support hockey's youngest participants.
The 2025 Banquet at Club Roma was a true highlight, with a full room and thoughtful attention to detail by Sue Guarasci. This end-of-season celebration upheld SCFHA’s tradition of recognizing teams, graduating players, and the volunteers who make it all happen.
Ryan also praised Steve Bowen for managing the increasingly complex ice schedule, helping families plan ahead with consistent availability. Referee relations, led by Leah Fenwick, are stronger than ever. Not only is SCFHA grateful for the referees' flexibility and commitment, but the organization is proud to see former Jr. Badgers now officiating games. Timekeeping has also become a viable part-time opportunity for players and adults alike.
Ryan concluded his presidency by expressing his deep appreciation for all volunteers. “It has been an honour working with you all,” he said, noting that while he is stepping away to focus on his career, he is proud of what SCFHA has accomplished during his tenure.
Governance Updates & By-Law Changes
The updated SCFHA Constitution and By-Laws were confirmed with a unanimous vote. These documents are now available for public viewing on the SCFHA website.
2025–2026 SCFHA Board of Directors
Following a transparent nomination and voting process, the following members were confirmed to the SCFHA Board:
Executive Team:
President: Sue Guarasci
1st Vice President / Rep Director: Darryl Dionne
2nd Vice President / House League Director: Trish O’Neill
Treasurer: Cory Brunarski
Secretary / League Administrator: Grace Nardini
Directors and Coordinators:
Equipment & Clothing (Rep/HL): Matt Cooper
Communications: Mikayla Guarasci & Emily Caldwell
Sponsorship: John Sykes
Tournament Director: Trish O’Neill
Directors-at-Large: Tanya Spence & Rich Vujasic
Referee Liaison / Timekeeper Scheduler: Leah Fenwick
Rep Convenor: Allison Radko
House League Convenor: Derek Funk
IP Director: Christian Parise
Web Director: Craig Bell
Ice Scheduler: Steve Bowen
The positions of DS Convenor and GHGHL Convenor were officially amalgamated into the House League Director role.
There were no reports from Standing or Special Committees during the meeting. All required budgets will be submitted during the season as needed.
New Business Highlights
A board meeting for the newly elected members will be scheduled in August, with a new start time of 5:30–6:00 p.m. (exact date to be determined). Additionally, Matt and Steve will coordinate with the arena to install banners in Rink 2.
Special thanks to all departing and incoming directors, committee members, and volunteers for continuing to grow female hockey in Niagara.
Interested in getting involved?
SCFHA is always looking for new volunteers. If you’re interested in helping shape the future of female hockey in Niagara, reach out to the President, either Vice President, or our Admin team. Director contact details are available on the Contact Us page of our website.
For ongoing updates, development opportunities, and event announcements, be sure to visit www.scfha.com and follow us on social media.