top of page
HV Homepage (1920 x 1080 px) (9).jpg

About Humber Valley
Hockey Association

Our Story

Welcome to Humber Valley Hockey Association - a destination for minor hockey in Etobicoke since 1953.

Founded by a group of community-minded parents, Humber Valley was built on a simple but powerful belief: that hockey should be fun, inclusive, and focused on player development. More than 70 years later, that same belief continues to guide everything we do.

Whether a player is stepping on the ice for the very first time or competing at an advanced level, our mission remains unchanged - to provide high-quality, community-focused hockey programming that builds skill, confidence, character, and a lifelong love of the game.

Our Vision & Values

At Humber Valley, we embrace innovative approaches to player and coach development while prioritizing what matters most:
fun, safety, sportsmanship, and personal growth.

 

Our goal is to deliver a positive, rewarding hockey experience for every player and family - on and off the ice.

Our Programs

We offer a full range of minor hockey programs to support players of all ages and skill levels, including:

  • House League

  • TWHL House League (for players U10+)

  • Competitive Development

  • Select

  • A & AA

  • Old Timers League (HVOT) for players 45+

 

No matter the pathway, Humber Valley is proud to offer development opportunities that meet players where they are and help them reach their potential.

Governance & Leadership

Humber Valley Hockey Association is a not-for-profit organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors elected by its membership. Our Board and executive officers are deeply committed to the continuous improvement of our programs and to fostering a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for players, parents, coaches, and volunteers.

We are proudly affiliated with:

  • Hockey Canada

  • Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF)

  • Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL)

Hockey Canada Logo
OHF Logo
GTHL Logo

Our History & Legacy

Humber Valley’s most famous alumnus is legendary goaltender Ken Dryden of the Montreal Canadiens. Ken’s hockey journey began right here in Etobicoke at age seven with the Islington Hornets — one of Humber Valley’s first two teams.

Even at that young age, his talent stood out. The Toronto Star wrote in 1955:

 

“This game on Thursday night was a spine-tingler, with the Hornets gaining a 2-2 tie on the sensational acrobatic stopping of 7-year-old Kenny Dryden, who made 37 saves…”

Remarkably, Ken was playing against boys up to 11 years old.

Ken Dryden in net at 7 years old

Ken went on to become one of the most decorated goaltenders in hockey history - winning six Stanley Cups, the Calder Trophy, the Vezina Trophy, and earning induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Beyond hockey, he became a respected author, lawyer, and Member of Parliament.

 

The Dryden family’s contribution to Humber Valley runs deep. Ken’s father Murray Dryden was a tireless volunteer, actively involved in minor sports, the Kingsway Kiwanis Club, and Humber Valley United Church. Ken’s brother Dave Dryden was also a goaltender, playing professionally in both the NHL and WHA, and was Ken’s first goaltending coach. In 1971, the brothers made history as the only siblings ever to oppose each other as goaltenders in an NHL game.

 

Their family’s commitment to sport, education, and community helped shape the foundation that Humber Valley still proudly stands on today.

Ken Dryden & the Stanley Cup at Humber Valley

On October 15, 2011, Ken Dryden brought the Stanley Cup home to Central Arena to share it with his Humber Valley family — a powerful full-circle moment celebrating the community that helped launch his extraordinary career.

Ken Dryden visits Humber Valley with the Stanley Cup

In Memoriam: Ken Dryden

On September 5, 2025, we were deeply saddened by the passing of Ken Dryden - not only one of the greatest goaltenders in the history of the game, but also Humber Valley’s most celebrated alumnus. His impact extended far beyond the ice through his leadership, intellect, and public service.

Humber Valley Hockey Association extends its heartfelt condolences to the Dryden family. We are proud to count Ken among our own and will forever honour his remarkable legacy.

See You at the Rink

For more than seven decades, Humber Valley Hockey Association has been proud to serve generations of players and families in Etobicoke. We remain committed to fostering a community where hockey is fun, development-driven, and built on strong values that last far beyond the game.

 

See you at the rink.

bottom of page