Code of Conduct

Kawartha Blazers Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct identifies the standards of behaviour that are expected of all Kawartha Blazers members, including players, coaches, parents, directors, and volunteers. The Kawartha Blazers are committed to providing and maintaining a sledge hockey environment where all individuals are treated with respect.

The following information deals with specific guidelines for the behaviour of Parents, Players, Coaches, On and Off-Ice Officials and Executive members and forms the Kawartha Blazers Code of Conduct.

During the course of all Kawartha Blazers activities and events, members of the Kawartha Blazers shall conduct themselves at all times in a fair and responsible manner. They shall refrain from comments or actions that are disrespectful, offensive, abusive, racist, or sexist. Behaviour that constitutes harassment or abuse (as defined by Canadian Hockey governing bodies) will not be tolerated by the Kawartha Blazers.

Members shall avoid behaviour that brings the Kawartha Blazers or the sport of Sledge Hockey into disrepute, including but not limited to abusive use of alcohol and non-medicinal use of drugs, or that endangers the safety of others.

Kawartha Blazers members shall at all times adhere to the Kawartha Blazers Codes of Conduct and rules governing Kawartha Blazers events and activities. Failure to comply with the Codes of Conduct may result in disciplinary action. Such action may result in the member losing their membership or some of the privileges that come with membership with the Kawartha Blazers including the opportunity to participate in club activities.

Behaviour Guidelines for Players

The number one guiding principal of the Kawartha Blazers Sledge Hockey program is to have fun, work hard and to develop hockey skills, teamwork and sportsmanship.

This quote from Hockey Canada says it all, “From the pond to the pros, success in hockey begins with respect. Players who respect themselves, teammates, opponents, coaches, trainers, GAME OFFICIALS, administrators, parents and fans develop winning attitudes both on and off the ice.”

Kawartha Blazers Sledge Hockey supports the Hockey Canada Fair Play Code

I will play hockey because I want to, not just because others or coaches want me to.

I will play by the rules of hockey and in the spirit of the game.

I will respect my opponents.

I will control my temper – fighting and mouthing off can spoil the activity for everyone.

I will do my best to be a true team player.

I will remember that winning isn’t everything and that having fun, improving skills, making friends and doing my best are also important.

I will acknowledge all good plays/ performances – those of my team and my opponents.

I will remember that officials are there to help me. I will accept their decisions and SHOW THEM RESPECT.

I will make a commitment to my team at all times by attending all practices, games, meetings, special events, and by playing to the best of my ability;

I will respect my coaches at all times and remember that my Coaches are providing me with the opportunity to learn and play the game of hockey;

If I feel strongly about something and wish to discuss it with the coach I will do so in the dressing room before or after a game so that the outcome of a game is not affected.

I acknowledge that respect for authority is a valuable life lesson.

I will not argue with a referee after a whistle since arguing will NOT change his or her decision.

I will share pertinent health issues with team management.

I will wear all proper equipment during games and practices.

Behaviour Guidelines For Coaches

Winning is a consideration, but neither the only one nor the most important one. Care more about the player 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. Do not appear for games or practices while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Show respect for on-ice and off-ice officials at all times.

Be generous with your praise when it is deserved; be consistent, 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 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, their parents or guardians. 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.

Behaviour Guidelines for Parents

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 that 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.

Should you wish to confront your child’s coach about a practice or game related issue, please wait 24 hours before doing so. Emotions can cause miscommunication and misunderstandings. Emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit your young athlete.

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 victory and in defeat and enforce the positive points of the game. Never yell 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.

If you enjoy the game, learn all you can about the game, and volunteer!

Behaviour Guidelines for Spectators

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 and will not be tolerated.

Help provide a safe and fun environment; throwing any items on the ice surface can cause injury to players and officials.

Do not lean over the boards or pound on the glass; the glass surrounding the ice surface is 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. Never appear for a game while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol.

Be supportive after the game…win or lose. Recognize good effort, teamwork and sportsmanship.

Behaviour Guidelines for On and Off – Ice Officials (Referees and Time Keepers)

Act in a professional and businesslike manner at all times and take your role seriously.

Strive to provide a safe and sportsmanlike environment in which players display their hockey skills.

Know all playing rules, their interpretations and their proper application. Remember that officials are “teachers”.

Set a good example. Make your calls with quiet confidence; never with arrogance.

Control games only to the extent that it is necessary to provide a positive and safe experience for all participants.

Violence must never be tolerated. Be fair and impartial at all times. Answer all reasonable questions and requests. Adopt a “ zero tolerance” attitude toward verbal or physical abuse.

Never use foul language when speaking with a player, coach or parent.

Use honesty and integrity when answering questions.

Admit your mistakes when you make them.

Never openly criticize a coach, player or other official.

Keep your emotions under control.

Behaviour Guidelines for Executive Members

Follow the rules and regulations of the Canadian Hockey Federation, the

Ontario Minor Hockey Association and the Ontario Sledge Hockey Association to

ensure that the philosophy and objectives of these organizations are promoted.

Work with on ice officials, coaches, parents, and other executive members to

provide a positive and safe experience for all participants. Support programs that train and educate players, coaches, parents, officials and volunteers.

Promote and publicize your programs.

Never appear for an association event while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. Communicate with parents by being available to answer questions and address problems throughout the season. Treat all players, coaches, and other volunteers with fairness, to promote fair play and sportsmanship.

Recruit volunteers, including coaches, who demonstrate qualities conducive to being role models to the youth in our sport. Perform your duties impartially, in furtherance of the aims of the Ontario Sledge Hockey Association. Do not use your position or influence to further purely personal objectives.

PLEASE REMEMBER

This is a GAME

Coaches are VOLUNTEERS

Referees are human

Everyone wins with respect

First priority is having FUN!

If we all follow the above, winning will take care of itself!