Editor’s Note:
The Member Advisory Council (MAC) brings together representatives from across the GTHL community to strengthen the connection between Member Associations and the League’s Board of Directors.
The Council is made up of representatives from Member Associations with teams in AAA, AA, and A, division and affiliated group members, one representative appointed by the Referee Committee, two Directors, and the GTHL’s Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO).
While the Directors and the Executive Director & COO participate, they do not have a vote in Council meetings.
The Council acts as a liaison between Member Associations and the Board, working collaboratively with GTHL staff and other committees to share perspectives, provide feedback, and help guide the League’s direction.
To the Greater Toronto Hockey Community,
As the Member Advisory Committee (MAC), representing clubs across all levels of the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL), we write on behalf of the 30,000 players we serve to deliver a unified message as this exciting new season of hockey begins.
Hockey is more than a game. It’s a source of joy, growth, and community for our children and families. It teaches teamwork, discipline, and respect. It is our shared responsibility, parents, coaches, officials, players, and league staff, to ensure the game remains safe, inclusive, and respectful.
We express our full support for the GTHL and all its staff, specifically the officials. Officials play a vital role in maintaining fairness, safety, and integrity on the ice. While not perfect, they take on a difficult task under pressure and deserve respect from everyone involved. Equally, it is our expectation that both officials and coaches always conduct themselves with mutual professionalism and respect.
The behaviour of adults, on benches and in the stands, shapes how young players respond to challenge and adversity. They are always watching and learning. As clubs, we are united that there is zero tolerance for abusive or disrespectful language toward on-and-off ice officials, or any member of the hockey community. Coaches and team staff must consistently model respectful behaviour, and we ask the same of parents and guardians.
There is a formal GTHL process for raising concerns and we ask that everyone follow the process calmly, respectfully, and through proper channels.
We extend our sincere thanks to the officials, volunteers, GTHL staff, and all who support minor hockey. Your work is appreciated. Together, we can ensure the game remains a positive experience for all.
Wishing everyone a great season!
The Member Advisory Committee
MAC – Club Membership:
- Andy Johnstone – Co-Chair (Ted Reeve Thunder)
- William Chaves – Co-Chair (Warren Park Eagles)
- Jeffrey Boyes – HL/A/AA West (Humber Valley Sharks)
- Kirk Brooks – HL East (Seaside Hockey)•Eric Cella – AAA (Toronto Titans)
- Neil Painchaud – HL/A/AA East (Streetsville Tigers)
- Peter Rewega – HL/A/AA West (Avenue Road Ducks)
- Tony Sangiuliano – AAA (Toronto Red Wings)
- Ted Varty – Mississauga Hockey League (MHL)
- Mario Aguiar – North York Hockey League (NYHL)
MAC – GTHL Members:
- Joshua Ajanaku – GTHL Staff
- Alice Bell – GTHL Board of Director
- Don West – GTHL Board of Director
- Ken Smith – GTHL Board of Director
- Scott Oakman – GTHL Executive Director & Chief Operating Officer
