NOHA/Nipissing Lakers Minor Hockey Night

The Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA) is pleased to announce that, in partnership with the Nipissing Lakers Men's Hockey Team, that it will host a Minor Hockey Night at the Lakers upcoming home game on Friday, September 12, 2025 vs. York. Admission is FREE! The game starts at 6:00 p.m. at the Boart Longyear Memorial Gardens. The evening is proudly supported by Source for Sports North Bay.

The NOHA will be on hand in the lobby with prizes, games and will oversee an intermission activity.

Players are encouraged to wear their hockey jerseys to the game.

Not all helmets offer the same level of protection. Tips for selecting a CSA-certified helmet.

Dear Players and Guardians,

We hope you are as excited as we are for the upcoming hockey season! As you prepare for the season, it is important to remember that only CSA-certified hockey helmets are approved for use in Hockey Canada sanctioned activities. As part of our commitment to player safety, we are providing important information about how to tell the difference between a CSA-certified hockey helmet and a counterfeit one.

Stay Safe on the Ice with CSA-Certified Hockey Helmets

Hockey helmets are essential for helping to protect hockey players of all ages from serious head injuries, but not all helmets offer the same level of protection. Trusted manufacturers work with third-party testing and certification organizations like CSA Group to rigorously test helmets for safety, durability, and effectiveness. However, some counterfeit helmets have recently been discovered for public sale using forgeries of the CSA label. These helmets have not undergone proper safety standard testing and pose a potential risk to player safety.

How to Choose an Authentic CSA-Certified Helmet

When choosing a hockey helmet, look for the round blue and red CSA certification label, usually found on the back or inside of the helmet. This label means the helmet model has passed strict tests and meets the CAN/CSA-Z262.1 safety standards. Only helmets with this label, and that have not been modified, are approved for play by Hockey Canada.

Beware of Counterfeit Helmets

While most helmets with the CSA label are genuine, some counterfeits have recently surfaced. Wearing a helmet that hasn't been properly tested can increase the risk of injury.

How to Choose a CSA-Certified Helmet

CSA Group has compiled a list of tips to help you choose a certified helmet, which can be found on the CSA website. A helpful tip sheet is also attached to this email.

Stay Safe and Play Smart

Remember, wearing a certified hockey helmet is crucial for your safety on the ice. Always verify your helmet's authenticity to help keep you and your loved ones protected.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Jacob Brown Named NOHA Director of Hockey Operations

The Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jacob Brown to the position of Director of Hockey Operations, effective immediately.

In his new role, Brown will serve as an advisor to the Executive Director on operational and strategic matters while enhancing current development initiatives being delivered, including an expansion of the skills camps and a robust coach mentorship program. His responsibilities also include spearheading critical recruitment and retention initiatives and supporting Associations with the various U9 player pathway pilot projects in place for the upcoming season.

"Jacob has demonstrated exceptional leadership in his work with our development programs, and we are excited to see him take on this broader role within our organization," said NOHA Executive Director, Jason Marchand. "His expanded responsibilities directly address one of our Board's top priorities – ensuring we continue to grow and retain our membership across Northern Ontario."

The appointment comes as the NOHA Board of Directors has identified recruitment and retention, including addressing late entry to the game, as a strategic priority for the organization. Brown's new position will provide dedicated focus and leadership to initiatives designed to attract new participants to hockey while ensuring current members remain engaged and supported throughout their hockey journey.

Brown will continue to oversee and enhance the NOHA's successful development programs, which have been instrumental in advancing hockey skills and opportunities for players, coaches, and trainers

throughout the region. His expanded initiatives will include growing the skills camp offerings and implementing a comprehensive coach mentorship program. His proven track record in program delivery and participant engagement makes him well-positioned to tackle the broader organizational challenges in his expanded role.

"I'm honored to take on this new challenge and look forward to working with our membership to strengthen hockey throughout Northern Ontario," said Brown. "Our development programs will remain a priority, and I'm excited to bring that same commitment to our recruitment and retention efforts, as well as supporting our Associations with the U9 player pathway pilot projects we have planned for this season."

The Director of Hockey Operations position represents a significant step in the NOHA's organizational evolution, demonstrating the association's commitment to providing enhanced support and strategic direction to its membership.

The NOHA is also currently in the process of hiring additional staff who will provide administrative support to our members. Details regarding this position will be provided at a later date.