HUNTSVILLE MINOR HOCKEY COACH CODE OF CONDUCT
The HMHA is committed to providing an environment in which all individuals are treated with respect. Members and participants of the HMHA shall conduct themselves in a manner consistent with strong values which include fairness, integrity, and mutual respect.
As a coach I will recognize individual differences in athletes and consider their long-term best interests. I will lead by example by teaching and practising cooperation, self-discipline, respect for officials and opponents
- I commit to aim for excellence based upon realistic goals.
- I am prepared to interact in a positive manner with administrators, league officials and parents.
- I will be flexible and willing to continually learn and develop.
- I will encourage athletes to continually improve their fitness and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
- I will follow the direction of a medical practitioner regarding Return to Play Guidelines for an injured player.
- I understand that minor hockey is a developmental activity, physically, mentally and socially.
- I will commit to develop and support all players.
- I will not ridicule players for making mistakes or for performing poorly. I will remember that players play to have fun and must be encouraged to have confidence in themselves.
- I will positively reinforce my players for effort and sportsmanship. I will not tolerate physical or verbal abuse in youth sports. I will remember that children need a coach they can respect.
- I know that winning is a consideration, but not the only one, nor the most important one. I will be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.
- I commit to promote a positive environment in minor hockey for all participants involved and to encourage all players to be both competitive and display sportsmanship.
As a coach I commit to provide FAIR ICE TIME to all players. I commit to the principle that all players should receive a fair amount of ice during the overall season. In games, due to various situations such as penalties, injuries, illness, effort in practice and training and other potential factors, equal ice time for all players can be difficult to maintain on a game-to-game basis. Fair ice time is based on all players participating throughout the season, regardless of abilities. I understand I am committing to developing all players and treating them fairly. I will strive to provide all players a fair amount of ice time throughout the season.
Recognized examples where ice time might not be equal in each game (“rolling” of lines):
- In the final minutes (typically last 5 minutes) of a closely contested game in the playoffs or a tournament game.
- When a coach is sitting out a player for disciplinary reasons.
- It is recognized and agreeable that a set power play or penalty kill line-up may be used, particularly in U15 (Bantam) and U18 (Midget) – consideration of overall fair ice time should still be a factor when making these decisions.
I agree that any incident that is in violation of the parameters of the above may be reported to the HMHA Executive, resulting in review by the Discipline and Ethics Committee (who will determine if my removal is appropriate).
HUNTSVILLE MINOR HOCKEY FAIR PLAY CODE
It is the intention of this AGREEMENT to promote fair play and respect for all participants within the Huntsville Minor Hockey Association. All team officials must acknowledge this AGREEMENT before being allowed to participate in hockey and must continue to observe the principles of fair play.
- I will be reasonable when scheduling games and practices remembering that young athletes have other interests and obligations.
- I will teach my athletes to play fairly and to respect the rules, officials, opponents and teammates.
- I will ensure all athletes receive equal instruction, discipline, support and appropriate, fair playing time.
- I will not ridicule or yell at my athletes for making mistakes or for performing poorly.
- I will remember that children play to have fun and must be encouraged to have confidence in themselves.
- I will make sure that equipment and facilities are safe and match the athlete's ages and ability.
- I will remember that children need a coach they can respect. I will be generous with praise and set a good example.
- I will obtain proper training and continue to upgrade my coaching skills.
- I will work in cooperation with officials for the benefit of the game.
The RULE OF TWO
The 'Rule of Two' (formally 2-deep) is a safety measure implemented by Hockey Canada in its sanctioned minor hockey programs. This rule necessitates the presence of two trained and screened (VSC) adults in or immediately outside the dressing room with the door propped open. Their role is to monitor the environment to prevent discrimination, harassment, bullying, or other forms of maltreatment (acts without parental consent). The rule is also applicable when showers are in use.