SPMHA Conduct Policy
SPMHA ascribes to the principles of integrity, conduct, diversity and ethics in hockey. We believe that the primary purpose of the enjoyment of the game by its participants, in a safe, healthy environment. It is apparent that participating in the game, whether as a player, coach, official or spectator, is more enjoyable when participants act in the spirit of cooperation and with the best interest of the players at the forefront.
Appropriate attitudes and acceptable behaviors must be consistently demonstrated by adult and youth participants and those who deliver the program, keeping in mind that the foundation of hockey is based on teamwork and respect.
SPMHA holds the welfare of participants paramount. By providing a conduct management program, which aims for compliance with the applicable codes of conduct, SPMHA aims ensure the development of a young person’s values, morals, social maturity, physical fitness and mental health. The off-ice hockey policy’s aim is to promote acceptable actions, specifically providing a framework as endorsed by SPMHA, which guides the conduct and behavior of volunteers, players, coaches, officials, and spectators including:
- Respect for all
- Protection from harm
- Development of ethical conduct towards others
- Notions of justice, fairness, equity
- Caring attitudes
- Freedom to enjoy, to flourish
- Respect for the game
It is a must that every participant abides by these principles not only while on the ice, but in the dressing room, in the arenas, and when in any way representing SPMHA. A participant is defined as a player, coach, on-ice official, off-ice volunteer, or spectator. The Policy is not intended to address complaints about officiating or general hockey rules. It is not intended to circumvent Hockey Alberta or Hockey Canada recommendations or standards, nor does it take precedence over disciplinary actions enforced by any league that SPMHA participates in. SPMHA will require participants at every level to uphold these values. In addition, if at any point, any of the Board Members or the Discipline Liaison Member (the “DLM”) has reason to believe a crime has been committed, they will refer the matter to the RCMP.