Niagara District Hockey League
Risk Management Policy: Fair Play & Player Safety
1. Purpose & Scope
The Niagara District Hockey League (NDHL), in partnership with the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) and the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF), is committed to providing a safe, fair, and inclusive environment for all players, coaches, officials, volunteers, and families.
This policy outlines the framework for risk management to reduce harm, promote fair play, and ensure compliance with OMHA, OHF, and Hockey Canada standards. It applies to all participants, teams, and member associations within the NDHL.
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2. Guiding Principles
• Safety First: Physical and psychological safety of players is the highest priority.
• Fair Play: Every player deserves respect, equal opportunity, and support to develop their skills.
• Respect & Integrity: All participants (players, coaches, parents, officials, volunteers) are expected to act with fairness, dignity, and respect.
• Accountability: Breaches of conduct or policy will be addressed promptly, fairly, and consistently.
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3. Code(s) of Conduct
All participants must follow the OMHA Code of Conduct, which emphasizes:
• Treating others with respect, fairness, and integrity.
• Abiding by the rules of the game, officials’ decisions, and team/league policies.
• Zero tolerance for abuse, bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
• Respectful parent and spectator behavior at games, practices, and events.
Consequences: Violations will result in discipline in accordance with OMHA/OHF regulations, up to and including suspension or removal from the league.
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4. Fair Play Standards
NDHL adopts Hockey Canada’s Fair Play Codes and enforces the following:
• Equal ice time and development opportunities, consistent with age and competitive level.
• Emphasis on teamwork, respect for opponents, and respect for officials.
• Coaches are responsible for modeling fair play values and reinforcing positive behavior.
• Parents and spectators must support fair play by encouraging effort, sportsmanship, and respect.
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5. Screening & Volunteer Safeguards
• Criminal Record Check (CRC) / Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC): All team officials, volunteers, and anyone in a position of trust must complete screening in accordance with OHF policy.
• Coach/Volunteer Training: Mandatory completion of Respect in Sport, Safe Sport, and other required OMHA/OHF certifications.
• Two-Deep Rule: At least two screened adults must be present at all times in team activities (practices, games, off-ice events).
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6. Player Safety Protocols
• Equipment: All players must wear CSA-approved equipment properly fitted and maintained.
• Concussion & Injury Management:
• Immediate removal from play if a concussion is suspected.
• Compliance with Hockey Canada’s Concussion Awareness & Return-to-Play Protocols.
• Written medical clearance required before returning after concussion or serious injury.
• Emergency Action Plans (EAPs): Each team must have an EAP in place and a designated person trained in first aid.
• Facility Safety: Dressing rooms, ice surfaces, and equipment must meet OMHA/OHF facility standards.
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7. Maltreatment, Bullying & Harassment
• NDHL enforces the OHF Maltreatment, Bullying, and Harassment Policy.
• All incidents must be reported immediately to the team, association, or league officials.
• Investigations will be handled according to OMHA/OHF procedures.
• Sanctions may include suspensions, mandatory education, or removal from the league.
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8. Insurance & Liability
• All participants are covered under Hockey Canada’s insurance program through the OHF.
• Insurance does not replace the need for prevention — teams must actively follow safety policies to mitigate risks.
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9. Dispute Resolution & Appeals
• Complaints may be filed at the team or association level.
• If unresolved, matters escalate to the NDHL, and where necessary, to OMHA/OHF.
• Appeals will follow OMHA/OHF appeal procedures to ensure fairness and transparency.
10. Monitoring & Review
• NDHL will review this policy annually in alignment with updates from OMHA, OHF, and Hockey Canada.