At the heart of the Sault Female Hockey Association is a mission to empower girls to be confident, strong, and fearless both on and off the ice.
Our President, Chantal Rilley, lives that mission every day. Through her leadership, she’s helped shape a space where girls are not only welcomed in hockey but they’re celebrated.
We asked Chantal a few questions to learn more about her journey and the passion behind her work. Read her inspiring answers below and see how one woman’s drive is helping change the game for girls in Sault Ste. Marie.
What is your vision for the future of SFHA?
My vision for Sault Female Hockey is to foster long-term growth and development by creating a consistent, structured program that players and parents can rely on year after year. I want to build a system where every athlete—from grassroots to elite levels—feels supported and guided. A key part of this vision is establishing the Jr. Greyhounds as a premier development program, not just rep teams, with a strong identity and a reputation for excellence that extends beyond our community.
What values do you think are most important for SFHA as an organization?
The values I see for SFHA go beyond the game itself. We aim to provide girls with not just a place to play hockey, but a supportive environment where they can build life skills, form lasting friendships, and develop a lifelong passion for the sport. Our focus is on creating well-rounded individuals who grow both on and off the ice.
How do you hope to see girls' hockey grow in our community over the next 5 years?
In the next five years, I envision SFHA being rebuilt on the foundation that once produced elite-level players—revitalizing a formula that leads to meaningful development, scholarship opportunities, and advancement to higher levels of hockey. This begins with a strong and engaging house league program that fosters a love for the game and builds core skills. With the support of experienced and passionate coaches, we will strengthen the connection between house league and our Jr. Greyhounds program through the Wildcats Selects, creating a clear and supportive development pathway.
I also see growth and innovation in our Timbits and U9 programs by introducing special enhancements—such as partnering with Ken Belanger to bring his knowledge and experience directly to our youngest players and new coaches. This partnership will help lay a solid foundation for both skill development and confidence at the earliest stages of the game.
Are there any new initiatives or changes coming that you're excited about?
SFHA New Initiatives:
As we continue to grow and strengthen female hockey in the Sault, SFHA is proud to introduce several exciting new initiatives aimed at increasing participation, developing skills, and building a strong hockey community:
1.“Come Try Girls Hockey” Events
We will host free events designed to introduce girls to the sport in a fun, welcoming environment—highlighting the camaraderie and team spirit that make girls hockey so special.
2.“Come Try Goaltending” Clinics
To grow our goalie pool, we’ll offer clinics for aspiring goaltenders, led and mentored by experienced female goalies. These sessions will provide inspiration and specialized guidance in a supportive setting.
3. Increased Local Play Opportunities
We’re expanding opportunities for local competition by continuing to host our popular “North of Hwy 17” House League Tournament and the “Deb Sims Memorial Tournament” for rep teams—giving more girls a chance to compete and connect close to home.
4. Building a Strong Hockey Family Culture
We foster a family-friendly environment through events like our annual House League Scramble, which now features a fun and engaging “Coaches Scramble”. This creates a sense of community between players, parents, and coaches.
5. Team Scrambles for Wildcats Selects & Jr. Greyhounds
Starting next season, we plan to extend the team scramble tradition to our Wildcats Selects and Jr. Greyhounds teams, promoting fun, bonding, and a unified program culture across all age groups.
What do you want people to know most importantly about you as a leader?
I’ve been proudly involved with Sault Female Hockey since 2010. As both a parent and volunteer, I’ve watched my two daughters grow through this association—one who played her hockey career in house league as a goaltender, and the other who competed in the rep program from a young age. These experiences have given me a well-rounded understanding of the value SFHA brings to girls of all skill levels.
I am deeply committed to the continued growth and development of girls hockey in Sault Ste. Marie. I truly believe SFHA is on the right path, and that’s thanks in large part to our hard-working executive team.
Their vision for the whole association and their dedication to building a solid, long-term development plan is what sets us up for future success.
This past season, I’ve also been proud to build relationships with the presidents of the Soo Peewee and Soo Major organizations. Together, we created new opportunities for our house league and some rep teams to play more games—something I believe is essential for development and enjoyment.
It takes a community to make SFHA what it is today and what it can be tomorrow.
As long as we keep working together, I’m confident we’ll continue to grow, support our players, and achieve great things for girls hockey in our community
With thanks,
Chantal