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Code of Conduct

Overview

SRIYHA follows the USA Hockey Core Values related to the development of youth hockey players, which includes sportsmanship, respect for the individual, integrity and pursuit of excellence through competition, loyalty and teamwork. It is our goal to develop our players, both as athletes and as individuals.  SRIYHA players are expected to act in a responsible, respectful, honorable and upstanding manner, both on and off the ice.

Appropriate behavior is expected at all times, including before, during or after a game, whether inside or outside the rink. It includes all ice rinks, tournaments, hotel stays, social functions or any other situation where the individual is identified as a member of SRIYHA.

Players are expected to follow team rules and coaching instructions as established at the beginning of the season and communicated throughout the season, whether or not they are set forth in this Code of Conduct.  Coaches have the authority and are expected to administer disciplinary action for a violation of this Code of Conduct or violation of team rules as they deem appropriate and in the best interests of their team.  At their discretion, the coach may also request that the SRIYHA Board of Directors impose additional disciplinary actions for repeated offenses or conduct that is consistently detrimental to the team or to SRYHA.

Coaches Code of Conduct

  • Winning is a consideration, but not the only one, nor the most important one.  Care more about the child than winning the game.  Remember, players are involved in hockey for fun and enjoyment.
  • Be a positive role model to your players, display emotional maturity and be alert to the physical safety of players.
  • Be generous with your praise when it is deserved; be consistent and honest; be fair and just; do not criticize players publicly; learn to be a more effective communicator and coach; don’t yell at players.
  • Adjust to personal needs and problems of players; be a good listener; never verbally or physically abuse a player or an official; give all players the opportunity to improve their skills, gain confidence and develop self-esteem; teach them the basics.
  • Organize practices that are fun and challenging for your players.  Familiarize yourself with the rules, techniques and strategies of hockey; encourage all your players to be team players.
  • Maintain an open line of communication with your players’ parents.  Explain the goals and objectives of your association.
  • Be concerned with the overall development of your players.  Stress good health habits and clean living.
  • To play the game is great, to love the game is greater.

Parents Code of Conduct

  • Do not force your children to participate in sports, but support their desires to play their chosen sport.  Children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment.  Make it fun.
  • Encourage your child to play by the rules.  Remember, children learn best by example, so applaud the good plays of both teams.
  • Do not embarrass your child by yelling at players, coaches or officials.  By showing a positive attitude toward the game and all of its participants, your child will benefit.
  • Emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit your young athlete.  De-emphasize games and competition in the lower age groups.
  • Know and study the rules of the game, and support the officials on and off the ice.  This approach will help in the development and support of the game.  Any criticism of the officials only hurts the game.
  • Applaud a good effort in both victory and defeat, and enforce the positive points of the game.  Never yell at or physically abuse your child after a game or practice - it is destructive.  Work toward removing the physical and verbal abuse in youth sports.
  • Recognize the importance of volunteer coaches.  They are important to the development of your child and the sport.  Communicate with them and support them.
  • If you enjoy the game, learn all you can about hockey - and volunteer.

Players Code of Conduct

  • No swearing or abusive language on the bench, in the rink or at any team function.
  • No lashing out at any official no matter what the call is. The coaching staff will handle all matters pertaining to officiating.
  • Anyone who receives a penalty will skate directly to the penalty box.
  • Fighting will not be tolerated. Fighting will result in an appearance before a Discipline Committee. 
  • There will be no drinking, smoking, chewing of tobacco or use of illegal substance at any team function.
  • I will conduct myself in a befitting manner at all facilities (ice rink, hotel, restaurant, etc.) during all team functions. 
  • Any player or team official who cannot abide by these rules or violates them will be subject to further disciplinary action. 

Spectators Code of Conduct

  • Display good sportsmanship.  Always respect players, coaches and officials.
  • Act appropriately; do not taunt or disturb other fans; enjoy the game together.
  • Cheer good plays of all participants; avoid booing opponents.
  • Cheer in a positive manner and encourage fair play; profanity and objectionable cheers or gestures are offensive.
  • Help provide a safe and fun environment; throwing and items on the ice surface can cause injury to players and officials.
  • Do not lean over or pound on the glass; the glass surrounding the ice surface if part of the playing area.
  • Support the referees and coaches by trusting their judgment and integrity.
  • Be responsible for your own safety - be alert to prevent accidents from flying pucks and other avoidable situations.
  • Respect locker rooms as private areas for players, coaches and officials.
  • Be supportive after the game - win or lose.  Recognize good effort, teamwork and sportsmanship.