2009 - HMHA Code of Conduct.doc
HILLMOND MINOR
HOCKEY
ASSOCIATION
CODE OF CONDUCT
MISSION STATEMENT
To foster a positive environment where the youth of
the Hillmond community will develop hockey skills,
life skills and social skills through a team approach
in a safe fun atmosphere.
(March 23, 2004)
INTRODUCTION
The Hillmond Minor Hockey Association Code of Conduct has been derived from and is a summary of the
Game Conduct Management Programs of Hockey Canada, Saskatchewan Hockey Association and Hockey
Alberta.
Over the past several years, it has become increasingly apparent that participating in the game of hockey,
whether as a player, coach, official or spectator, has become less and less enjoyable. People are leaving the
game for the wrong reasons and with bad memories. Conduct of spectators, coaches, officials and players
amongst themselves is becoming increasingly more unacceptable, both on and off the ice.
Hillmond Minor Hockey Association (HMHA) views the Code of Conduct as support and confirmation to the
many excellent volunteers, coaches, officials and parents who are in the majority and who have always
practiced and subscribed to the fundamental principles of fun, respect and positive development of the game.
HMHA sees this Code of Conduct as a vehicle to further these values and to make the game even better and
more enjoyable. One could view the Code of Conduct as a celebration of the positive element of the game that
will overwhelm those negative elements that have unfortunately tainted the reputation of the game today.
Those few who may question the Code of Conduct are the very ones that many of the elements of the Code of
Conduct are aimed at and are indicative of a problem and not a solution. It is not a time to be defensive, but
rather offensive and proactive in advocating a program that is totally positive.
We encourage everyone to confidently come forward with energy and support the Code of Conduct to make our
hockey experience even better.
A copy of Hockey Canada’s “Speak Out! … Act Now! (a guide to preventing and responding to abuse and
harassment for sports clubs and associations) is held by the secretary of HMHA, and may be referred to by
HMHA and/or individuals when dealing with issues relating to the Code of Conduct.
OBJECTIVES OF THE CODE OF CONDUCT
Objectives:
1.
To provide guidelines to enhance and ensure the development of a young person’s values, morals, social
maturity, physical fitness, mental fitness and enjoyment of the game of hockey.
2.
To promote acceptable conduct which provides:
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Respect for other people;
Protection from harm;
Development of ethical conduct towards others;
Principles of justice, fairness and equity;
Caring attitudes;
Freedom to enjoy and to flourish;
Respect for the game.
It is necessary that every participant abides by these principles. A participant is defined as, but not limited to:
player, coach, official, parent or spectator.
This Code of Conduct is not intended to be a new process for complaints about officiating or general rules of
the game. The objective is to promote and ensure acceptable behaviour.
HMHA is committed to providing a sport and work environment in which all individuals are treated with
respect and which promotes equal opportunities and prohibits discriminatory practices. Members of HMHA
shall conduct themselves at all times in a fair and responsible manner. Members shall refrain from comments or
behaviours which are disrespectful, offensive, abusive, racist or sexist. In particular, behaviour which
constitutes harassment or abuse will not be tolerated by HMHA.
Harassment is a form of discrimination which is prohibited by human rights legislation in Canada. In its most
extreme form, harassment can be an offense under Canada’s Criminal Code.
This Code of Conduct applies to all employees, directors, officers, volunteers, coaches, athletes, officials and
members of HMHA. It applies to harassment which may occur during the course of all HMHA business,
activities and events.
This policy shall not prevent a person in authority from taking immediate informal corrective disciplinary action
in response to behaviour that, in their view, constitutes a minor incidence of harassment.
DEFINITION OF “UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOUR”
An individual is displaying unacceptable behaviour if s/he is verbally, mentally or physically harassing and/or
abusing any game participant (player, coach, spectator or official).
One of the defining characteristics of abuse and/or harassment is that it usually takes place where one person is
in a position of power over another, or has the trust of another and then abuses the relationship. It doesn’t
matter that a person did not mean their behaviour to be harassing or did not intend to abuse their position of
power or trust. It is the effect of the behaviour that is most critical.
When there is a situation of “unacceptable behaviour”, the responsibilities of HMHA, coaches, spectators and
on-ice officials are as set out herein. The focus is on achieving the Code of Conduct objectives. Confrontation
should be avoided and reporting is encouraged as it is an important step in attaining the objectives of the Code.
HOCKEY CANADA’S STANDARD OF BEHAVIOUR
ABUSE & HARASSMENT DESCRIPTION
1.
2.
Abuse & Neglect of Minors:
1.1
When any member has a reasonable belief that a minor is being abused or neglected, s/he shall
report this belief to authorities, pursuant to the provisions of the Saskatchewan Child Protection
legislation and shall advise the Executive.
1.2
HMHA shall take no further action until such time as child protection authorities and/or police
have concluded their investigation.
1.3
The matter shall then be dealt with as a disciplinary matter pursuant to this policy and the report
of the investigation carried out by authorities may be used as evidence in these proceedings.
Harassment:
Harassment is defined as conduct which is insulting, intimidating, humiliating, offensive or physically
harmful. Types of behaviour which constitute harassment and abuse include, but are not limited to:
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Unwelcome jokes, innuendo or teasing about a person’s looks, body, attire, age, race, religion,
sex or sexual orientation;
Condescending, patronizing, threatening or punishing actions which undermine self-esteem or
diminish performance;
Practical jokes which cause awkwardness or embarrassment, endanger a person’s safety or
negatively affect performances;
Unwanted or unnecessary physical contact including touching, patting or pinching;
Unwelcome flirtation, sexual advances, requests or invitations;
Any form of hazing;
Any form of physical assault;
Any sexual offence including sexual assault;
Behaviours such as those described above which are not directed towards individuals or groups
but which have the effect of creating a negative or hostile environment.
COMPLAINT HANDLING PROCEDURE
1.
Reporting Process:
If an incident occurs which meets the definition of unacceptable behaviour and, in the opinion of a
player, spectator, coach, official or board member, is serious enough to warrant a complaint, then an Incident
Report Form should be completed.
2.
Responsible Reporters:
2.1
On/Off Ice Officials: If, in the opinion of an official, an individual is verbally, mentally or
physically harassing or abusing a game participant, the official will, at a stoppage of play,
identify the offending individual and through discussion with one or both coaches, request that
the offending individual ceases this unacceptable behaviour. If the behaviour continues, the
official will document the offence or action on a game incident report form or on the back of the
game sheet. A copy of the write-up is to be forwarded to the team rep or a HMHA board
member, thus triggering the complaint handling procedure.
2.2
Board Members, Spectators, Players: If, in the opinion of a board member, spectator or player,
an individual is verbally, mentally or physically harassing or abusing a game participant, an
incident report form is to be completed and forwarded to the team rep or a HMHA board
member. This will trigger the complaint handling procedure.
INVESTIGATION AND ENFORCEMENT
1.
The President of HMHA shall have the power to:
1.1
Summarily suspend any player, coach, trainer, manager or official of any team under the
auspices of HMHA for any conduct on or off the ice which, in the sole discretion of the
President, is deemed to be unbecoming or detrimental to the game. Such suspension to be
effective until dealt with by the Board of HMHA within a reasonable time.
1.2
Summarily prevent any spectator from viewing any game or other activity or entering a facility
to view such game or activity under the auspices of HMHA for any conduct which, in the sole
discretion of the President, is deemed to be unbecoming or detrimental to the game. Further, the
President shall have the power to summarily suspend a player, coach, team official or the team to
which the spectator is affiliated. Such action to be effective until dealt with by the Board of
HMHA within a reasonable time.
2.
All investigations shall be conducted by the Board of HMHA in a thorough, fair and expedient manner
with all parties being taken into consideration.
3.
After investigation of an incident report, HMHA Board shall have authority to:
3.1
Discipline any player, coach, trainer, manager, official, parent or spectator of any HMHA team
for any conduct for any conduct on or off the ice which is deemed to be unbecoming or
detrimental to the game.
3.2
Prevent any spectator from viewing any game or other activity or entering a facility to view such
game or activity under the auspices of the HMHA for any conduct which is deemed to be
unbecoming or detrimental to the game. Further, HMHA shall have the authority to suspend a
player, coach, team official or the team to which the spectator is affiliated.
4.
The terms of any discipline issued by the Board of HMHA shall be documented in writing, and a copy
of these terms shall be delivered to the disciplined party.
DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES
1.
Offences that are similar to those identified in the Saskatchewan Hockey Association’s Guidelines of
Suspension will be dealt with in a similar manner as set out in the said Guidelines. The only difference being
that when dealing with adults who should know better, the length of a suspension may be increased.
2.
Discipline is not limited to, but may include suspension. When an individual is suspended, s/he may be
suspended from all Minor Hockey activities. This includes attending his/her other child(ren)’s games if s/he is a
parent with other children playing hockey. It also includes refereeing games if s/he is a referee.
3.
If the offender is a parent/guardian of a player registered with HMHA, then HMHA has authority to
suspend the offender’s child from Minor Hockey activities.
4.
All suspensions shall be reported by HMHA in writing to the Saskatchewan Hockey Association or
other appropriate provincial minor hockey association.
5.
For reference purposes it is noted that in Regulation #3.07.03 of the Saskatchewan Hockey Association
the following guidelines of suspension have been set out:
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
6.
Suspension may include terms that will not allow the suspended party to participate in the game
of hockey in any capacity.
While a player or team official is serving a suspension, they may not participate with that same
team in any other capacity.
A suspended team official cannot be present in his/her team’s dressing room prior to, during or
following the game(s). They are suspended from being on the player’s bench or in the penalty
and/or time box. Team officials who violate this will be dealt with by the Chairperson of the
Division.
Suspensions may only be served in regularly scheduled league games, SHA playoff games,
league play-off games, and SHA sanctioned tournaments where entry or scheduling is made prior
to suspension. Suspensions cannot be served in exhibition games and suspended players cannot
play in exhibition games.
Any suspension imposed upon any player, coach or team official by the officials or any league or
association registered with SHA shall be given full recognition by SHA.
Severity of Discipline:
6.1
Mild
(Reprimand to 2 game suspension)
This would be applied when it is the first offense which is less severe in nature. The offending
individual has shown true remorse and the actions are out of character. There is little chance of
this person re-offending.
6.2
Moderate
(Minimum 3 game suspension)
This is for offences that are mild to moderate in severity. Application of this type of discipline
may be in the instance of a second offence. It would also be applied to individuals who have not
accepted responsibility for their actions, show no remorse and the likelihood of re-offending is
high.
6.3
Severe
(Minimum 5 games to 3 years)
This is for the most serious offences. An example could be physically threatening or assaulting
another individual. Application of this type of discipline would be for individuals who have reoffended or have not accepted responsibility for their actions, show no remorse and are likely to
re-offend.
APPEAL PROCESS
1.
An appeal must contain a clear and concise summary of the grounds for appeal.
2.
An Appeal Form must be submitted to the team rep or HMHA Board member within 5 days of
notification of discipline.
3.
Upon receiving an Appeal form, the Board of HMHA will review the appeal relating to the discipline or
actions taken as a result of the related incident report investigation. Appeals will be heard as soon as practical
(usually within 7 days).
4.
If the Appeal is denied by HMHA, further appeals can be made to the applicable provincial minor
hockey association.
INCIDENT REPORT FORM
Submit completed form to Team Rep or HMHA Board Member
This form is to be used to report an incident of unacceptable behaviour. An individual may be considered to be
displaying unacceptable behaviour if s/he is verbally, mentally or physically harassing and/or abusing a game
participant.
DATE / TIME OF INCIDENT:
EVENT:
NAME OF OFFENDING PARTY:
ASSOCIATED WITH (TEAM NAME):
NAME(S) OF ADDITIONAL WITNESS(ES):
On the reverse side, please:
1.
2.
Provide a clear description of the unacceptable behaviour witnessed.
Summarize your expectation of the outcome resulting from your report.
Please use black ink or type the report. Reports that are not legible will not be reviewed.
DATE:
YOUR NAME:
(PLEASE PRINT)
ADDRESS:
TELEPHONE:
DAYTIME:
EVENING:
SIGNATURE:
Please note:
 You can expect an investigation of your report.
 A written response to all reports is not possible as HMHA volunteers do not have the resources to do so.
 HMHA will contact complainants at some point during or after the investigation in response to the incident
report.
APPEAL FORM
Submit completed form to Team Rep or HMHA Board Member
This form is to be used to appeal disciplinary measures or actions taken by HMHA as a result of an incident
report investigation.
DATE OF APPEAL:
NAME OF OFFENDING PARTY:
REASON FOR APPEAL
Please use the reverse side to provide additional information relating to the incident and your appeal.
Please use black ink or type the report. Appeals that are not legible will not be reviewed.
DATE:
YOUR NAME:
(PLEASE PRINT)
ADDRESS:
TELEPHONE:
DAYTIME:
SIGNATURE:
Please note:
 You can expect an investigation of your appeal.
 HMHA will contact you with a response to your appeal.
EVENING:
HILLMOND MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION
CODE OF CONDUCT
It is the intention of this pledge to promote proper behavior and respect for all participants
within the Hillmond Minor Hockey Association. All players must sign this pledge before being
allowed to participate in hockey and must continue to observe the principles of fair play.
PLAYER’S PLEDGE
1.
I will play hockey because I want to, not because others want me to.
2.
I will play by the rules of hockey and in the spirit of the game.
3.
I will control my temper – fighting, mouthing off, swearing, throwing equipment or breaking
sticks can spoil the game for everyone.
4.
I will respect my opponents.
5.
I will do my best to be a true team player.
6.
I will remember that winning isn’t everything, and that having fun, improving skills, making
friends and doing my best are also important.
7.
I will acknowledge all good plays and performances – those of my team and my opponent.
8.
I will not argue with officials’ decisions. I will let my captains or coach ask the necessary
questions.
9.
I will remember that coaches and officials are there to help me. I will accept their decisions and
show them respect.
Retain upper portion for your reference
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Sign & return lower portion to HMHA
PLAYER’S PLEDGE
I agree to abide by the principles of this Code of Conduct as set and supported by HMHA.
I also agree to abide by the rules, regulations and decisions as set by HMHA.
Player’s Signature
Print Name
Team:
Date:
HILLMOND MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION
CODE OF CONDUCT
It is the intention of this pledge to promote proper behavior and respect for all participants within the
Hillmond Minor Hockey Association. All parents must sign this pledge before they and their child(ren)
are allowed to participate in hockey and must continue to observe the principles of fair play.
PARENT’S PLEDGE
1.
I will not force my child to participate in hockey.
2.
I will remember that my child plays hockey for his/her enjoyment, not mine.
3.
I will encourage my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflict without resorting to hostility or
violence.
4.
I will teach my child that doing one’s best is as important as winning so that my child will never feel
defeated by the outcome of the game.
5.
I will make my child feel like a winner every time by offering praise for competing fairly and working
hard.
6.
I will never ridicule or yell at my child or any other player for making mistakes or losing a game.
7.
I will remember that children learn by example. I will applaud good plays and performances by both my
child’s team and their opponents.
8.
I will not question the officials’ judgment or honesty in public. I recognize that officials are being
developed in the same manner as players.
9.
I will support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children’s hockey games.
10.
I will respect and show appreciate for the volunteers who give their time to hockey for my child.
Retain upper portion for your reference
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Sign & return lower portion to HMHA
PARENT’S PLEDGE
I agree to abide by the principles of this Code of Conduct as set and supported by HMHA. I also agree to abide
by the rules, regulations and decisions as set by HMHA.
Date:
Parent’s Signature
Print Name:
Name of Player:
Parent’s Signature
Print Name:
HILLMOND MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION
CODE OF CONDUCT
It is the intention of this pledge to promote proper behavior and respect for all participants
within the Hillmond Minor Hockey Association. All team officials must sign this pledge before
being allowed to participate in hockey and must continue to observe the principles of fair play.
TEAM OFFICIAL’S PLEDGE
1.
I will be reasonable when scheduling games and practices remembering that young athletes have other
interests and obligations.
2.
I will teach my athletes to play fairly and to respect the rules, officials, opponents and teammates.
3.
I will ensure that all athletes receive equal instruction, discipline, support and appropriate fair playing
time.
4.
I will not ridicule or yell at my athletes for making mistakes or for performing poorly. I will remember
that children play for fun and must be encouraged to have confidence in themselves.
5.
I will make sure that equipment and facilities are safe and match the athlete’s age and ability.
6.
I will remember that children need a coach they can respect. I will be generous with praise and set a
good example.
7.
I will obtain proper training and continue to upgrade my coaching skills.
8.
I will not smoke or swear on the ice, in the box or in the dressing room.
9.
I acknowledge that all officials with HMHA must meet the requirements of the National Coaching
Certification Program, including the Initiation/Coach Program, Safety Trainers Program and Speak Out
Program.
Retain upper portion for your reference
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Sign & return lower portion to HMHA
TEAM OFFICIAL’S PLEDGE
I agree to abide by the principles of this Code of Conduct as set and supported by HMHA. I
also agree to abide by the rules, regulations and decisions as set by HMHA.
Date:
Team:
Official’s Signature
Print Name
HILLMOND MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION
CODE OF CONDUCT
It is the intention of this pledge to promote proper behavior and respect for all participants within the
Hillmond Minor Hockey Association. All officials must sign this pledge before they are allowed to
officiate in any games and must continue to observe the principles of fair play.
OFFICIAL’S PLEDGE
(Referee/Linesman)
1.
I will make sure that every player has a reasonable opportunity to perform to the best of his/her
ability within the rules.
2.
I will avoid or remedy any situation that threatens the safety of the players.
3.
I will maintain a healthy atmosphere and environment for competition.
4.
I will not permit the intimidation of any player either by word or action. I will not tolerate
unacceptable conduct towards myself, other officials, players, coaches or spectators.
5.
I will be consistent in calling all infractions, regardless of my personal feelings towards a team
or individual player.
6.
I will handle all conflicts firmly but with dignity.
7.
I will accept my role as teacher and role model for fair play, especially with young participants.
8.
I will remain open to constructive criticism and show respect and consideration for different
points of view.
9.
I will obtain proper training to upgrade my officiating skills.
10.
I will work in co-operation with coaches for the benefit of the game.
Retain upper portion for your reference
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Sign & return lower portion to HMHA
OFFICIAL’S PLEDGE
(Referee/Linesman)
I agree to abide by the principles of this Code of Conduct as set and supported by HMHA. I also agree to abide
by the rules, regulations and decisions as set by HMHA.
Date:
Official’s Signature
Print Name
HILLMOND MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION
CODE OF CONDUCT
It is the intention of this pledge to promote proper behavior and respect for all participants within the
Hillmond Minor Hockey Association. All board members must sign this pledge.
BOARD MEMBER’S PLEDGE
1.
I will maintain the integrity of the HMHA at all times and will not participate in any activity
which places HMHA in ill-repute.
2.
I will maintain the Constitution of the HMHA.
3.
I will fulfill the duties and obligations of my position to the best of my ability, always serving
the best interests of all members and players of the HMHA.
4.
I will resign from my position immediately if I become unable to fulfill the duties or obligations
of my position.
5.
I will treat the general public with dignity and respect and be considerate of their circumstances.
6.
I will not use my position for power or influence on any matter in the HMHA.
7.
I will respect and support decisions made by the HMHA.
Retain upper portion for your reference
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Sign & return lower portion to HMHA
BOARD MEMBER’S PLEDGE
I agree to abide by the principles of this Code of Conduct as set and supported by HMHA. I also agree to abide
by the rules, regulations and decisions as set by HMHA.
Date:
Board Member’s Signature
Print Name