ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY
In an effort to make ice hockey a more desirable and rewarding experience for all participants, USA Hockey instituted a zero tolerance policy beginning with the 1992-93 season. This policy requires all players, coaches, officials, team officials and administrators and parents/spectators to maintain a sportsmanlike and educational atmosphere before, during and after all USA Hockey-sanctioned games.
Thus, the following points of emphasis must be implemented by all referees and linesmen:
Players
A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct (zero tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a player:
1. Openly disputes or argues any decision by an official.
2. Uses obscene or vulgar language at any time, including any swearing, even if it is not directed at a particular person.
Visually demonstrates any sign of dissatisfaction with an official’s decision. Any time that a player persists in any of these actions, they shall be assessed a misconduct penalty. A game misconduct shall result if the player continues such action.
Coaches
A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct (zero tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a coach:
1. Openly disputes or argues any decision by an official.
2. Uses obscene or vulgar language in a boisterous manner to anyone at any time.
3. Visually displays any sign of dissatisfaction with an official’s decision including standing on the boards or standing in the bench doorway with the intent of inciting the officials, players or spectators.
Any time that a coach persists in any of these actions, he/she shall be assessed a game misconduct penalty.
Officials
Officials are required to conduct themselves in a businesslike, sportsmanlike, impartial and constructive manner at all times. The actions of an official must be above reproach. Actions such as “baiting” or inciting players or coaches are strictly prohibited.
Officials are ambassadors of the game and must always conduct themselves with this responsibility in mind.
Parents/Spectators
The game will be stopped by game officials when parents/spectators displaying inappropriate and disruptive behavior interfere with other spectators or the game. The game officials will identify violators to the coaches for the purpose of removing parents/ spectators from the spectator’s viewing and game area. Once
removed, play will resume. Lost time will not be replaced and violators may be subject to further disciplinary action by the local governing body. This inappropriate and disruptive behavior shall include:
1. Use of obscene or vulgar language in a boisterous manner to anyone at any time.
2. Taunting of players, coaches, officials or other spectators by means of baiting, ridiculing, threat of physical violence or physical violence.
Throwing of any object in the spectators viewing area, players bench, penalty box or on ice surface, directed in any manner as to create a safety hazard.
USA HOCKEY
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.
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; do not boo 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 surface can cause injury to players and officials.
· Do not lean over or pound on the glass or fence; the glass and fence surrounding the 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.
If these code of conducts are violated, any board member or rink official can ask that you leave the arena
