Participation Fees for the Upcoming Season

Dear Members of the Elmbrook Youth Hockey Association,

We need to inform you of an important update regarding participation fees for the upcoming season. After thorough deliberation and consideration of our current financial situation, we have decided to increase the participation fees. This decision has not been taken lightly, and we want to ensure you understand the reasons behind it.  While we have worked hard to minimize increases, EYHA is anticipating more than a 15% increase in overall organizational expenses, making a fee adjustment necessary to maintain the quality and long-term sustainability of our program.

Why Are Fees Increasing?

Prior to the 2024/25 season, the Board communicated that costs throughout youth hockey had risen significantly, including:

~Ice rental fees
~Referee costs
~Tournament fees
~Administrative and coaching expenses

Those cost pressures have not slowed. In fact, many have increased dramatically in the past 2 years.

Over the past seven seasons, EYHA has raised participation fees only once, despite inflation increasing by an estimated 25–45% during that same period.

Additionally, EYHA has continued to invest in our players' experiences by:

+ Including Fall Camp and pre-evaluation programming at no additional charge;
+ Expanding player development opportunities;
+ Increasing administrative support and coaching resources; and
+ Absorbing rising operational expenses whenever possible.

Looking Ahead: Greater Than 15% Increase in Organizational Expenses

As we finalize our agreements and budgets for the upcoming season, EYHA anticipates an overall increase in organizational expenses exceeding 15%. The largest drivers continue to be:

- Ice costs

- Officiating expenses

- Tournament participation costs

These increases require us to make adjustments today so that we can remain financially stable tomorrow.

S.O.A.R. 2030: Planning for the Future

As part of our Eagles S.O.A.R. 2030 Strategic Priorities, the Board has developed a multi-year financial model that includes projected fee increases over the next five years.

Our goal is simple: Provide transparency and predictability for our families while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the association.

Rather than making large, unexpected adjustments in the future, we intend to communicate anticipated increases well in advance and plan responsibly.

Helping Families Offset Costs

EYHA remains committed to helping families manage costs through fundraising opportunities, including:

Wreath Sales

Coffee Sales

Scrips

Additional fundraising initiatives are currently under consideration.

As always, 100% of fundraising proceeds are credited directly back to participating families to offset player fees.

We appreciate your understanding and continued support. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. 

Thank you,

EYHA Board