Congratulations to 2024-25 Jr Panther Amy Clements on her commitment to the University of Guelph Gryphons
The
Central York Panthers would like to congratulate our 2024-25 Jr Panther Amy
Clements on her commitment to the U Sports OUA (Ontario University Athletics)
University of Guelph Gryphons women's hockey program. Amy is a highly
accomplished student athlete who has excelled both on the ice and in the
classroom. Amy was a key piece to the recent success of the Jr Panthers and she
will be dearly missed by the Panther community. We know how much Amy has
dreamed of getting to this point in her hockey career and we couldn’t be
happier for her!
(July 4, 2025 Aurora, Ontario) – The Central York Girls Hockey Association are thrilled to announce that their 2024-25 Jr Panther Amy Clements has committed to play U Sports OUA Women’s Hockey for the University of Guelph Gryphons in Guelph, Ontario for the 2025-26 season.
Amy has been an essential part of the Central York Panthers U22AA program for the past two seasons and was a standout on the blue line that was one of the best groups in the highly competitive OWHL Elite U22AA League. Amy developed into one of the backbone pieces for this strong defensive unit. After a strong first year with the Jr Panthers Amy really took her game up a notch and was counted on in all key game situations this past year. Amy used her elite skating and playmaking ability to really enhance the offensive capabilities of the Jr Panthers defensive unit. She combined her already high compete level and impeccable 1v1 play to help keep the Panthers near the top of the OWHL U22AA Elite League standings. Amy’s play created a two pronged attack for the Central York Jr Panthers between the forward and defensive units.
Amy was a critical addition to the Central York Panthers family at a time when the program needed to further develop the “Panther” culture. It is obvious to anyone that knows Amy that she loves hockey and wants to be the best she can be. But it was and is Amy’s commitment to the team and developing a family atmosphere that really demonstrated to everyone how much being a Panther has meant to Amy. Her passion and determination have been inspiring during her time here as a Panther. Amy has used this past year to take her skill level to another level. She comes to the rink everyday wanting to be better for herself but more importantly for her team. Amy really cares about the Panthers and has developed lifelong relationships that she will carry with her forever.
“When I first joined the Central York Panthers I was super hesitant to make the move as I barely knew anyone. However, right away my teammates and coaches made me feel welcomed and a part of the Panther family. I felt like I had been a Panther my entire life! Over the past three years I can honestly say that CYP has been my life. I have made lifeline friendships and countless memories that I will always carry with me. My last two seasons with the Jr Panthers have been truly unforgettable. It is difficult to explain to an outsider but the atmosphere and the community here is so welcoming, unlike any other. The people that are here always made me look forward to coming to the rink. I’m so thankful for everything CYP has taught me. I will miss being an everyday Panther but I am also very excited and looking forward to the next steps in my hockey career with the Gryphons,” exclaimed an elated Clements.
Katie Mora, Head Coach of the University of Guelph Gryphons has been watching Amy’s progress as a Panther over the past few years and is very excited that she is joining her program. “Amy is an intelligent defender with great vision. We are thrilled to continue to build on the habits established within the Central York program,” stated a grateful Coach Mora.
Central York’s U22AA(Jr) Head Coach Steve Dempsey is very excited about this commitment. “Amy was someone who came to the Central York High Performance program (PHP) in hopes of playing for me and the Jr Panthers at some point. In today’s climate you do not see many players that are willing to wait and develop first before joining a Jr program. But with Amy she could see from afar that this place is special and she wanted to be here wholeheartedly. I really appreciated the confidence that she had in me and this program from the start. Amy has such a big heart and we will miss that the most. She always has a smile on her face and makes you feel good every time you see her. Amy just makes you remember that hockey is fun and spending time with your teammates is always a good day. From a hockey perspective Amy brings a lot to any program and will be a positive impact for the Gryphons. She skates the game so well and has great vision of the ice. These attributes will fit in so well with the high-paced program that Guelph has. I know Katie Mora personally and I am really happy for both of them with this signing. Some players and coaches are better fits than others and this one will be a great partnership,” exclaimed a confident Coach Dempsey.
Amy is scheduled to start the 2025-26 season at the University of Guelph next fall.
