Codes of Conduct

It is the intention of this compact to promote Fair Play and Respect for all participants within Massachusetts Hockey. It is expected that all parents of Massachusetts Hockey participants read and understand the Parent’s Code of Conduct and continue to observe and follow all the principles contained within the Code throughout the year.

1. I will not force my child to participate in hockey. I will try to make it FUN!

2. I will encourage my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflict without resorting to hostility or violence.

3. 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. I will make my child feel like a winner every time by offering praise for competing fairly and hard.

4. I will never ridicule or yell at my child for making a mistake or losing a game.

5. I will remember that children learn by example. I will applaud good plays by both my child’s team and their opponents. I will not be critical of, or embarrass any player, including opposition players.

6. I will never question the official’s judgment or honesty in public. I recognize that officials are being developed in the same manner as players.

7. I will respect and show appreciation for the volunteers who give their time to hockey for my child.

8. I will never yell, taunt, threaten or inflict physical violence upon any player, coach, official or spectator at any youth hockey activity. I will refrain from the use of abusive or vulgar language, racial, ethnic or gender-related slurs at any time at the rink or any youth hockey function. I will support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth hockey games.

9. I will leave the coaching to the coaching staff. I will encourage my child to play in a manner consistent with the team’s strategy or plans. Massachusetts Hockey Parent’s Code of Conduct

www.masshockey.com

10. I will emphasize skill development and a serious approach to practices and explain how skill development will benefit my child.

11. I will attempt to learn about the game of hockey (USA Hockey rules, equipment, levels, skills, etc.) so that I may best support my child’s development in the game.

12. I will not throw objects of any kind on the ice, or lean over and pound on the glass.

13. I will communicate all and any concerns regarding inappropriate behavior to the Team Manager, Coach, ACE (Association Coaching Education) Coordinator or local youth hockey association representative.

14. I will insist that my child plays in a safe and healthy environment. I will support a sports environment that is free of alcohol, drugs or tobacco and I will refrain from their use at all youth sports events.

15. I understand the benefits from participating in a team sport, the commitment, the discipline and the social skills learned and acquired.

16. I will remember that my child plays hockey for his or her enjoyment, not mine. I have read and understand the above Code of Conduct, and agree to abide by its guidelines at all team and league activities. I understand that if I do not follow this Code of Conduct, I may be asked to leave the league activity (such as a game or practice) or I may be asked to withdraw my child from the league.

         PLAY FOR FUN! Be Team player and get along with your teammates.

·         No swearing or abusive language on the bench in the rink or at any team function. Fighting will not be tolerated. Fighting will result in an appearance before a Discipline Committee.

·        No lashing out at any official no matter what the call is. The coaching staff will handle all matters pertaining to officiating.

·        I will conduct myself in a befitting manner at all facilities (ice rink, hotel, restaurant, etc) during all team functions.

·        RESPECT your coaches, teammates, parents, opponents, and officials.

·         Any player or team official who cannot abide by these rules or violates them will be subject to further disciplinary action.

·         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 any 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 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.

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