Cumberland County Minor Hockey Association
CCMHA
Policies & Procedures

Mission Statement
Cumberland County Minor Hockey Association exists to provide a positive learning and maturing experience for young athletes in a minor hockey setting.  In structuring these experiences, Cumberland Minor Hockey must lead by example, recognizing that these experiences may have a profound effect on the future attitudes, moral development and community involvement of these young people. 
The intent of Cumberland County Minor Hockey is to provide an opportunity for all skill levels to participate in a well-organized and structured hockey program.  The qualities of sportsmanship and good citizenship will be promoted and the welfare, education and social development of the participants shall be the paramount objective.

 

 

1 GENERAL. 6
1.1 DEFINITIONS. 6
1.2 ASSOCIATION PURPOSE. 6
1.3 CCMHA OBJECTIVE. 7
1.4 VALUES. 7
1.5 MEMBERSHIP. 7
1.6 VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS. 7
1.7 BOARD ELECTED AND APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS. 8
Board of Directors. 8
Annual General Meeting (AGM). 8
Elected Members. 8
Appointed Members. 9
Other Members. 9
Committees. 9
Voting/Non Voting. 9
2 MEETINGS. 10
2.1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS. 10
2.2 SPECIAL MEETINGS. 10
2.3 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.. 10
2.4 ELIGIBILITY OF NOMINEES FOR ELECTED OFFICE. 10
3 VOTING.. 11
3.1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS. 11
3.2 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS. 11
3.3 ABSENTEE OR PROXY VOTING.. 11
3.4 RECORDING OF VOTES. 11
4 CONFLICT OF INTEREST. 11
4.1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS. 12
4.2 GENERAL. 13
5 MOTIONS. 13
6 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE. 13
7 PERSONNEL AND RESPONSIBILITIES. 14
7.1 PRESIDENT. 14
7.2 PAST PRESIDENT. 14
7.3 VICE PRESIDENT - House League. 14
7.4 VICE PRESIDENT - Provincial Teams. 15
7.5 VICE PRESIDENT - Initiation Program.. 15
7.6 VICE PRESIDENT - Coach & Player Development 15
7.7 VICE PRESIDENT - Fundraising & Sponsorship. 16
7.8 TREASURER.. 16
7.9 DIRECTORS. 16
7.10 REGISTRAR.. 16
7.11 ICE ALLOCATOR.. 17
7.12 COACH DEVELOPMENT/EVALUATION DIRECTOR.. 17
7.13 PLAYER DEVELOPMENT & EVALUATION DIRECTOR.. 18
7.14 SECRETARY.. 18
7.15 WEBMASTER.. 18
7.16 EQUIPMENT DIRECTOR.. 19
7.17 Player Registration Fee Waiver 19
8 FEMALE PLAYERS. 19
8.1 Bench Mom.. 20
9 PHYSICAL, SEXUAL HARASSMENT & ABUSE POLICY.. 20
10 CODE OF CONDUCT. 20
10.1 Parents & Supporters. 21
10.2 Coaches & Team Officials. 22
10.3 Players. 23
10.4 Board, Executive Committee and Volunteers. 24
10.5 Breach of the Code of Conduct 24
Reporting & Feedback. 24
Informal Process. 24
Formal Hearing. 25
Conduct of the Hearing. 25
10.6 DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE. 26
10.7 DISCIPLINE. 27
10.8 VIOLATIONS and PENALITIES. 27
Class I Violations. 27
Class II Violations. 28
Class III Violations. 28
Notification. 29
Right to Appeal 29
Reporting. 29
Failure to Comply. 29
11 COMPLAINTS. 29
11.1 Complaints Against Game Officials. 30
11.2 Order for Pursuing Resolution. 30
12 DISPUTE AND APPEAL POLICY.. 31
12.1 APPEALS COMMITTEE. 31
12.2 APPEALS PROCESS. 31
14 COACH SELECTION POLICY.. 32
14.1 COACH SELECTION POLICY STATEMENT. 32
14.2 COACH SELECTION COMMITTEE. 33
Committee Organization. 33
Coach Selection Qualifications. 34
Selection Criteria. 34
Training. 34
Experience. 34
Background. 34
Philosophy. 34
Evaluations. 35
Coach Evaluation Form.. 36
To be completed by the player: 36
References. 38
Interviews. 38
Other Commitments. 38
14.3 MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS. 38
15 COACH SELECTION PROCESS. 39
15.1 IDENTIFYING COACH CANDIDATES. 39
15.2 SECURITY AND REFERENCE CHECKS. 39
15.3 SELECTING FROM THE CANDIDATE POOL. 39
15.4 SELECTION OF ASSISTANT COACHES. 40
15.5 EVIDENCE OF EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS. 40
15.6 Parent/Coach Selection. 41
15.7 APPEALS. 41
16 CCMHA PLAYER SELECTION & EVALUATION POLICY.. 42
Mission Statement. 42
Guiding Principles. 42
Initiation Program.. 42
Player Notification Process. 44
Appeal Process. 45
17 NSF AND REFUND POLICY.. 45
17.1 NSF CHEQUE POLICY.. 45
17.2 REFUNDS POLICY.. 46
18 LOGO AND TEAM APPAREL POLICY.. 47
18.1 LOGO.. 47
18.2 COLOURS. 47
18.3 SUPPLEMENTARY CLOTHING.. 47
19 EQUIPMENT POLICY.. 47
19.1 GOALTENDER.. 48
19.2 JERSEYS. 49
19.3 SURPLUS JERSEYS. 50
19.4 SCORE SHEETS. 50
19.5 PUCKS, PUCK BAGS AND PYLONS. 50
19.6 FIRST AID KITS. 50
20 SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM & FUNDRAISING POLICIES. 50
20.1 General 50
20.2 Sponsorship. 52
20.3 Team & Individual Fundraising. 53
20.4 Communications. 55
21 FAIR PLAY POLICY.. 55
21.1     What is fair play?. 55
21.2     Fair Seldom Means Equal 56
INCIDENT REPORT FORM... 57
 

1 GENERAL

Membership in CCMHA is a privilege not a right. All members of CCMHA, including players, parents, relatives and friends of players, coaches or other members of CCMHA, coaches, managers and teams are bound by the CCMHA By-Laws, Rules, Guidelines and Policies of CCMHA, Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada.
Amendments to this Policies and Procedures manual, Rules and Guidelines may be made as required subject to the majority vote of CCMHA Board of Directors.
In the event of a conflict or inconsistency between any provision of the Policies and Procedures Manual, any Rule or any Guideline on the one hand and any provision of the CCMHA By-Laws on the other hand, the provisions of the CCMHA By-Laws shall prevail to the extent of the conflict or inconsistency.
 

1.1 DEFINITIONS

Policy - is a definite course or method of action to be followed in the affairs of CCMHA.
Guideline - is a recommended course or method to be followed in the affairs of CCMHA following best practices.
CCMHA - CCMHA shall be used throughout this document and refers to the Cumberland County Minor Hockey Association.
CCMHA Member - shall mean any person who has been admitted to membership in CCMHA and is in Good Standing. Only one Parent or Supporter per player registered is able to vote at the Annual General Meeting. For example, 2 players = 2 votes at the AGM.
Parents & Supporters - Include the biological parents, step parents, and all other "parent" like adults actively involved with the player(s). This can also include Grandparents and Step Grandparents, as well as common law spouses, boyfriends, girlfriends, just friends and other relationships.
Good Standing - shall mean a person who has paid all fees, provided all such information required and to the satisfaction of the Registrar and is not serving a suspension as determined by the Discipline Committee or is currently not before the Discipline Committee.
24 Hour Rule - shall mean no emails, phone calls or personal discussions until 24 hours after the event in question. Any contact during the 24 hour period will result in an immediate One (1) Game Suspension.
CCMHA By-Laws - means the By-Laws of CCMHA which are in force and as may be amended from time to time.
 

1.2 ASSOCIATION PURPOSE

CCMHA is a volunteer operated non-profit organization formed to organize and administer a hockey program on behalf of the community within Cumberland County. A Board of Directors is formed from the general membership to carry out this mandate. CCMHA encompasses the area of Amherst, Springhill, Oxford and the Municipality of Cumberland and all other communities deemed to be with CCMHA boundaries.
 

1.3 CCMHA OBJECTIVE

CCMHA strives to provide a hockey program that provides:
 

• Safety
• Development
• Teamwork
• Respect
• Sportsmanship
• Competitiveness
• Friendships

CCMHA will also teach children to effectively deal with challenges, adversity and competitiveness through the hockey programs offered.
 

1.4 VALUES

CCMHA shall value the game of hockey and strive to operate under a set of By-laws, Rules and Policies to ensure a fair, equitable, ethical and enjoyable hockey program for players, coaches and parents at all levels.
All members of CCMHA shall value and respect the volunteers and staff within CCMHA, Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada, as well as on and off ice officials.
 

1.5 MEMBERSHIP

Membership in CCMHA is a privilege and not a right. The CCMHA Board of Directors has the right to terminate any membership and/or suspend any member, including players and parents & supporters from CCMHA, a CCMHA function and/or ban any member, including players and parents and supporters from CCMHA, a CCMHA function, for violation of any By-Law, policy, or rule.
 

1.6 VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS

The success of CCMHA is directly related to the amount of time that volunteers commit to the program. There are many opportunities to volunteer on a team, such as:
 

• Coach
• Assistant Coach
• Manager
• Equipment Management
• Statistician
• Media Contact
• Timekeeping
• Trainer
• Tournaments
• Fundraising

CCMHA holds various fundraisers that also provide opportunities to help the organization financially.
 

1.7 BOARD ELECTED AND APPOINTMENT OF MEMBERS

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is formed from the general membership to ensure the efficient operation of all aspects of the CCMHA program. The Board of Directors is comprised of the Executive Officers and Directors as defined in the By-Laws. In doing so, the Board of Directors assumes responsibility for all decisions affecting program activities, including formation of By-laws and Policies, Rules and Guidelines.
Amendments to the By-Laws of CCMHA shall be subject to the approval of the membership at the Annual General Meeting.
Where appropriate, the Board of Directors may delegate issues or tasks to individuals or sub committees.
The Board of Directors shall ensure that the activities of CCMHA are conducted in accordance with its Policy and Procedures Manual and the By-Laws.
The Board of Directors will be accessible to any CCMHA member and give appropriate consideration to concerns brought to its attention by a member.
The Board of Directors shall consist of both elected and appointed members. Each voting member shall have one vote on motions presented to the Board. Elections shall be held once a year at the Annual General Meeting.
 

Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Elected members shall then be responsible for selecting appointed members from within the general membership of CCMHA.
Such appointments are to be made within 30 days of the AGM if possible.
All elections and appointments are for the terms indicated below.
 

Elected Members

Elections will be for a two (2) year term
 

• President
• Vice President Hockey Operations - Provincial Teams
• Vice President Hockey Operations - House League
• Vice President Hockey Operations - IP Program
• Vice President Hockey Operations - Coach & Player Development
• Vice President - Fundraising & Sponsorship
• Treasurer

Elections will be for a one (1) year term
 

• Director

Appointed Members

Past President (ex-officio)
Secretary
Registrar
Technical Director
Team Manager or other Team Representative
 

Other Members

Other members within the CCMHA organization chart shall be Appointed positions.
The Elected Members and/or the Appointed members shall be responsible for identifying and bringing forward to the Board of Directors qualified candidates for such required positions for approval by the Board of Directors.
 

Committees

Within 30 days after the AGM, the following committees shall be selected by the Board of Directors.
 

• Coach Selection & Evaluation Committee
• Player Evaluation Committee
• Bluenose Committee
• Discipline Committee
• Appeals Committee
• Fund Raising Committee
• Other Committees such as the Nominating Committee may be selected at the September, or immediately thereafter, Board meeting.

Committees shall be established as necessary to carry out the operation of the organization or to study and formulate policy, procedures or guidelines. All committees will be chaired by a member of the Executive Committee. Committee members may be members of the Executive Committee, the Board of Directors or the CCMHA membership at large, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors.
 

Voting/Non Voting

The following positions shall have voting rights at all Board of Directors meetings:
 

1. President (only in the event of a tie)
2. Past President
3. All Vice Presidents
4. Directors

The above positions plus the Registrar shall be considered the Board of Directors of CCMHA.
 

2 MEETINGS

2.1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS

Meetings of the CCMHA Board of Directors shall be held as often as may be required, but there should be one per month during the hockey season. A minimum of 9 (nine) Board of Directors Meetings shall be called by the President per year.
The Board of Directors have a standing invitation to all members of CCMHA to every Board of Directors meeting. The success of CCMHA is attributed to the involvement, opinions and ideas of those members elected or appointed to the CCMHA organization.
 

2.2 SPECIAL MEETINGS

A special meeting of the Board of Directors may be called on the instruction of the President. An attempt must be made to provide 24 hours notice to all Board members of special meetings before they can be considered valid.
No subject shall be discussed or considered at any special meeting except that specified in the notice.
 

2.3 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

CCMHA shall hold an Annual General Meeting on or before the 31st of May of each year. The agenda for this meeting will include an election of officers who will form part of the Board of Directors for the next year. Members of CCMHA shall be provided with not less than thirty (30) days written notice.
Members shall sign in with the Registrar and obtain ballots for voting for each elected position. Only CCMHA members who are in good standing are eligible to vote or propose motions.
Each member has the privilege of proposing one eligible nominee for each office open for election.
 

2.4 ELIGIBILITY OF NOMINEES FOR ELECTED OFFICE

A Nominee for elected office must be a member in good standing of CCMHA.
Nominations may be made to the Registrar or Secretary's attention no later than 15 days prior to the Annual General Meeting.
To be considered valid, a Nominee for the elected position of President must be an existing member of the Board of Directors and must have served a minimum of two years as a member of the Board of Directors. In the event there is no nominee for President with two years of Board of Directors membership, a nominee for President may be chosen by the Board of Directors from amongst the CCMHA membership.
To be considered valid, a Nominee for the elected position of Vice President of Evaluations, Coach and Player Development must have previously served at least one year as a member of the Evaluation Committee. In the event there is no nominee for Vice President of Evaluations, Coach and Player Development with one year of Evaluation Committee membership, an open nomination will be accepted.
To be considered valid, a Nominee for the position of Treasurer shall possess a recognized professional accounting designation or relevant experience subject to Board approval.
Any Voting Board member missing four or more meetings of the Board of Directors during the previous term may be ineligible for nomination to an elected office but may remain eligible for appointments.
 

3 VOTING

3.1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETINGS

Every voting Board of Director member present shall have one vote on all motions tabled at Board of Directors meetings unless disqualified from voting by reason of Conflict of Interest or Code of Conduct violation as outlined below. The Chairperson of the meeting, who is usually the President, shall not vote except in the event of a tie.
 

3.2 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS

Every CCMHA member present and in good standing at the Annual General Meeting shall have one vote on all matters tabled unless disqualified from voting by reason of a Conflict of Interest or Code of Conduct violation as outlined below. Voting is limited to one vote per parent, per family.
 

3.3 ABSENTEE OR PROXY VOTING

No absentee or proxy voting will be allowed. No teleconference voting will be allowed, however voting via e-mail will be allowed.
 

3.4 RECORDING OF VOTES

A member may request his or her vote be recorded in the minutes.
 

4 CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Members of CCMHA, including the Board of Directors, committee or sub-committee members shall not vote on any question:
 

• Affecting a private company of which they are shareholders;
• Affecting a public company in which they hold more than one percent of the shares;
• Affecting a partnership or firm of which they are members;
• Concerning a contract for the sale of goods, merchandise or services to which they are a party;
• In which they will derive direct or indirect personal benefit beyond that which will accrue to the organization in general; and
• Directly affecting, or in any way relating to, the placement or discipline of any player to whom they are directly related.

Any member excluded by virtue of the above shall declare this before the discussion of the question and shall leave the room and not participate in the debate and vote. That Member will be deemed absent for that specific question.
CCMHA is committed to the ethical behaviour of its volunteers and Board. All members of the Board, committees and sub-committees are bound by the Conflict of Interest Policy.
 

• For the purposes of this policy, a conflict of interest may be deemed, but not limited to exist when;
  • A volunteer or member of the Board places themselves in a position which might benefit them, their children or any person directly related to them from improper consideration or favouring.
  • A volunteer or member of the Board seeks or is perceived to seek, gain, receive or benefit financially from preferential treatment in the duties and responsibilities in CCMHA from situations, but not limited to:
• Participating as an owner, part owner, director or officer of a firm which is a supplier of materials or services to CCMHA;
• Entering into a sponsorship agreement or promotional agreement with CCMHA where the participant is an owner, part owner, director or officer of the company;
• Receiving gifts, monies or favours of any kind in exchange for preferential treatment on the team.

• When a conflict or perceived conflict arises, the person (people) involved shall;
  • Immediately advise the President, and the Board of the nature of his/her conflict on interests;
  • Remove themselves immediately from the meeting or situation;

4.1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Every Board or Committee member who directly or indirectly has an interest in a proposed or existing contract or decision or other matter relating to CCMHA shall make a full and fair declaration of the nature and extent of the interest at a Board Meeting.
The declaration of a conflict of interest shall be made at the meeting at which the question of entering into the contract or transaction or other matter is first being considered by the Board. If the Board or Committee member is not in attendance on the date of the meeting, the declaration of conflict of interest must be made to the President prior to the meeting if the matter is identified on the agenda or, if the matter is not identified on the agenda, immediately following the meeting or, if the Board or Committee member is not in attendance on the date of that meeting, at the next meeting held after the Board or Committee.
After making such a declaration, no Board or Committee member shall vote on such a contract or decision or other matter, nor shall he or she be counted in the quorum in respect of such a contract or transaction or other matter.
If a Board or Committee member fails to make a declaration of conflict of interest in a contract, decision or other matter shall account to and reimburse CCMHA for all profits realized, directly or indirectly, from such contract or decision, and may be required to step down from such position.
 

4.2 GENERAL

Any team officials, CCMHA Committee members or members at large who are in, or could be perceived to be in, a conflict of interest on a matter shall declare such conflict when a matter is first being considered and leave the meeting in question and shall not otherwise participate in any decision on the matter.
Examples of conflicts of interest include, but are not limited to:
 

• Occupation, customer or client relationships
• Coach selection
• Selection or composition of a team
• Parent of player or parent on a team which a player is on

5 MOTIONS

Each member shall have the privilege of proposing motions for consideration with the requirement of a seconder.
The Chairperson shall rule on the validity of any question in terms of order. If a motion is ruled “out of order” by the Chairperson it shall be so recorded in the minutes along with the reasons stated for the ruling.
On any question, members shall observe parliamentary courtesy. The proposer of any motion shall have the right to open and close debate; however, closure shall not take place until every member choosing to speak has had an opportunity to do so. No member shall speak more than twice to the same question, or longer than five minutes at one time. No member shall speak a second time to a question until every member choosing to speak has spoken.
A proposer has the right to withdraw the motion at any time, in which case it shall be recorded in the minutes and business shall proceed as if the motion had never been proposed.
 

6 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

The following Organizational Chart outlines the structure of CCMHA and the voting and nonvoting positions.
 
            insert organizations chart here
 

7 PERSONNEL AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Subject to the powers and duties defined in the By-Laws, the following outlines the responsibilities of various positions.
 

7.1 PRESIDENT

• Responsible for the overall operation of the Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, including co-ordination of the activities of all members and sub-committees.
• Schedules all CCMHA Board of Directors, Executive Committee and Annual General Meetings.
• Presides as Chairperson at all meetings unless he/she chooses to delegate such Chairperson at a meeting.
• Maintains contact with other hockey orientated resource groups.
• Serves as a voting member on all standing committees and ad hoc committees.
• Becomes Past President in an advisory capacity.
• May exercise the powers of the Board of Directors in cases where an immediate decision is required and time does not permit an Executive Committee or Board of Directors meeting.
• Attends or appoints a designate to all HNS meetings, or any other required meetings.
• Performs required Press Releases through the media as may be required by CCMHA.

7.2 PAST PRESIDENT

The Past President serves in an advisory capacity to the CCMHA President and is a member of the Executive Committee. The Past President is a full voting member of the Board of Directors should he/she be present at any board meeting.
 

• Coordinates the activities of the Discipline Committee.

7.3 VICE PRESIDENT - House League

• Responsible for the overall direction and day to day operation of the on-ice hockey program.
• Manages all coaches responsibilities with respect to ensuring they are compliant with Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada requirements in addition to CCMHA.
• Responds to all matters in the operation of individual teams.
• Assists, co-ordinates, oversees and provides mentorship to the functions of the following Board of Directors members:
  • Team Managers and Coaches
  • Parents and Supporters

 
 

7.4 VICE PRESIDENT - Provincial Teams

• Responsible for the overall direction and day to day operation of the on-ice hockey program.
• Manages all coaches responsibilities with respect to ensuring they are compliant with Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada requirements in addition to CCMHA.
• Responds to all matters in the operation of individual teams.
• Assists, co-ordinates, oversees and provides mentorship to the functions of the following Board of Directors members:
  • Team Managers and Coaches
  • Parents and Supporters

7.5 VICE PRESIDENT - Initiation Program

• Responsible for the overall direction and day to day operation of the on-ice hockey program.
• Manages all coaches responsibilities with respect to ensuring they are compliant with Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada requirements in addition to CCMHA.
• Responds to all matters in the operation of individual teams.
• Assists, co-ordinates, oversees and provides mentorship to the functions of the following Board of Directors members:
  • Team Managers and Coaches
  • Parents and Supporters

7.6 VICE PRESIDENT - Coach & Player Development

• Responsible for the overall direction and operation of the CCMHA Evaluation program.
• Coordinates all coaches responsibilities with respect to ensuring they are compliant with Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada requirements in addition to CCMHA.
• Is responsible for recruiting and coordinating the activities of:
  • Coach Development/Evaluation Director
  • Player Evaluation Director
  • Player Development Director
• Coordinates and oversees the activities of the Evaluation Committee.
• Develops and proposes changes to the CCMHA Evaluation Policy in consultation with other CCMHA members for approval by the Board of Directors.

7.7 VICE PRESIDENT - Fundraising & Sponsorship

• Responsible for the implementation of policy.

7.8 TREASURER

• Maintains financial records, bank accounts and directs all banking functions, including teams.
• Prepares financial reports for presentation as requested at the Board of Directors meetings.
• Is responsible for obtaining draft financial statements for the previous fiscal year for submission to the Annual General Meeting.
• Is responsible for obtaining year-end Financial Statements for the previous season prior to the commencement of the next season.
• Must be a signing authority for all cheques along with the President and other designates.

7.9 DIRECTORS

• Attends all regular CCMHA meetings and communicates details to category coaches as required.
• Assist in player evaluations at the beginning of the season according to the CCMHA Evaluations Policy.
• Works with the Coach Selection and Evaluation Committee to assign coaches at the beginning of the season.
• Works with the Registrar to place players and affiliates on teams within the operating directives of CCMHA.
• Works to create and evaluate the teams at the beginning of the season.
• Receives calls from parents/guardians, players, and coaches during the season and assists in all inquiries.
• Provides CCMHA Policy and Procedure interpretations to players, parents/guardians, and coaches as required.
• Administers suspensions when applicable.
• Provides any reports of violation by players, teams, coaches, parents/guardians of CCMHA Policies and Procedures to the Board.

7.10 REGISTRAR

• May serve as CCMHA representative at various Hockey Nova Scotia and Zone meetings.

• Manages the overall registration process for CCMHA including:
  • Fundy Hockey School
  • Regular Season
  • 3 on 3
  • Registration for other events as required
• Maintains and updates all hockey player files for CCMHA and Hockey Canada ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Gathers and maintains all information relating to hard cards for teams.
• Manages affiliation lists.
• Manages transfer and releases of players to and from CCMHA.

7.11 ICE ALLOCATOR

• Ensures the Category Directors and coaches receive electronic copies of game schedules and practices in a timely manner.
• Responsible for all phone calls and emails pertaining to ice.
• Will exercise best efforts to minimize the amount of "burnt ice" by attempting to place it with another team.
• Responsible for obtaining and contracting extra ice as required.
• Attends ice allocation meetings as required.
• Exercises best efforts to balance unfavourable ice times vs.- favourable ice times amongst teams.
• Exercises best efforts to balance ice times amongst teams
• Interacts with Southwest Zone Ice Representatives.
• Coordinates the sale of excess ice.

7.12 COACH DEVELOPMENT/EVALUATION DIRECTOR

• Develops a program for the training and improvement of skills of coaches and assistant coaches.
• Makes known to CCMHA coaches any training available to them (speakers, workshops, seminars, etc).
• Produces yearly coach development plan.
• Defines and conducts coach training programs.
• Provides (procures/develops) coach support materials.
• Provides coach evaluation materials.
• Coordinates and oversees coach evaluation process.
• Participates in Coach Selection Committee.
• Provides a summary report to the Executive Committee on Coach Evaluations following each season.

7.13 PLAYER DEVELOPMENT & EVALUATION DIRECTOR

• Works with VP Evaluations, Coach and Player Development to develop the policy for Evaluations and implements the direction of the Evaluation Committee.
• Procures the required ice time for evaluations with the Ice Allocation Director.
• Controls the use of the Evaluation Management Spreadsheet.
• Assists Category Directors in the use of the Evaluation Management Spreadsheet.
• Assists Category Directors in the responsible movement of players between evaluation skates.
• Makes recommendations to Category Directors on team make-up based on Player Evaluation results.
• Produces yearly Player Development Plan.
• Oversees Skills and Drills.
• Oversees goalie skills program.
• Oversees hockey schools program.

7.14 SECRETARY

• Records, distributes and maintains the minutes for the Board of Directors meetings.
• Coordinates distribution of notice of meetings to the Board of Directors.
• Maintains and updates all correspondence and documents of CCMHA.
• Assists and/or coordinates mail outs and notice to CCMHA members.
• Assists the Executive Committee along with all other committees as required.
• Coordinates procurement of administrative supplies for the Executive Committee.
• Assembles and distributes Board of Directors meeting agendas.
• Arranges meeting locations for Board of Directors meetings and other meetings as required.

7.15 WEBMASTER

• Responsible for maintaining and updating the CCMHA website.
• Ensures the website is up and running and promptly deals with any performance issues.
• Focuses on continuous improvement of the website recognizing its value to CCMHA members.

7.16 EQUIPMENT DIRECTOR

• Is responsible for the evaluation, procurement and maintenance of all equipment.
• Provides recommendations for replacement of unsuitable equipment and prepares budget requirements for equipment to be submitted to the Board.
• Arranges for handling, storage, repairing, cleaning and inventory of equipment.
• Arranges for distribution of equipment to evaluation team, conditioning program, and individual teams at the start of the season and ensures that all equipment is returned at the end of the season.
• Ensures that all name bars, captain, assistant captain and other sponsorship bars are removed at the end of the season.
• Responsible for the organization and tidiness of the equipment locker.
• Reports to VP Evaluations, Coach and Player Development.

7.17 Player Registration Fee Waiver

The following positions in CCMHA also include a Registration Fee Waiver for the son(s) or daughter(s) of the person holding that position.
 

1. Treasurer
2. Website Coordinator
3. Registrar
4. Ice time Coordinator
5. Development Coordinator

8 FEMALE PLAYERS

CCMHA welcomes both female and male hockey players into its organization. During Evaluations and development of teams, CCMHA will use its best efforts to ensure that more than one female are placed on a team. This creates a more enjoyable environment for the female players during the season.
Should female players be placed on a team, the following rules shall apply:
 

• A separate/private changing area shall be provided for the child(ren) subject to the approval of the parents.
• No one will be allowed in the separate changing area except the parents.
• Should there be more than one female in the changing area from different families, the parents must receive consent from the other parent(s) before entering the change area while the other child(ren) are present.
• Coaches are to ensure that the female hockey players are dressed and in the main team dressing room prior to any team discussions.

8.1 Bench Mom

Prior to the commencement of the hockey season, teams with a female player(s) are to nominate a bench mom. Should an injury occur to a female players during a game or practice, the bench mom is the only female (outside of a female coach) who is allowed onto the bench or onto the ice.
Once the injured females is in the dressing room, the following shall apply:
 

• One or both of the parents must be present.
• In the event the parents are not present, the bench mom or other female adult from the team must be present in the dressing room.

9 PHYSICAL, SEXUAL HARASSMENT & ABUSE POLICY

CCMHA is committed to providing a hockey program and environment that promotes equal opportunities and prohibits discriminatory or harassing practices.
For the purposes of this policy, Harassment is defined as comments or conduct directed towards an individual(s), which is insulting, intimidating, humiliating, malicious, degrading or offensive.
For the purposes of this policy, Sexual Harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
CCMHA recognizes that it can be extremely difficult to come forward with a complaint of harassment or sexual harassment. CCMHA recognizes the interests of both the complainant and the respondent in keeping the matter confidential.
This policy will be enforced on a Zero Tolerance Basis, those found in violation of the policy will be subject to a minimum suspension of 1 year and the matter will be forwarded to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
 

10 CODE OF CONDUCT

CCMHA is committed to ensuring and emphasizing respectful behaviour and conduct, both on and off the ice, which emulates CCMHA Values. These values shall eliminate any disrespectful conduct and discriminatory practices including abuse, neglect and harassment from all elements of the game or events outside of the game.
Violation by any member, parent, supporter, player, manager, coach or other participant of any provision of the CCMHA Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action being taken by CCMHA against such individual as provided in the Discipline Policies of CCMHA.
The CCMHA Code of Conduct shall include (but not be limited to) the following principles:
 

• Players, parents, coaches and supporters of CCMHA shall abide by the Bylaws, Rules and Policies of CCMHA and their behaviour is expected to mirror the spirit of the Bylaws, Rules and Policies and this Code.
• The Fair Play Code as supported by CCMHA.
• ZERO (0) Tolerance for Bullying and Harassment as defined by Hockey Canada.

All members and participants of CCMHA shall respect other members, officials, parents, players, supporters, team officials, volunteers, Board members, Executive Committee members, employees and property of CCMHA. Any inappropriate conduct, threats, harassment or abuse (including the use of profanity) directed towards game or team officials, members, parents, players, supporters, volunteers, Board members, Executive Committee members, employees or damage to the property of CCMHA or of another association or facility will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action.
All members, fans and participants of CCMHA shall respect the game of hockey and shall behave in a manner consistent with the values of CCMHA.
CCMHA will not tolerate inappropriate behaviour by parents, supporters, players, managers, assistant or head coaches. Individuals exhibiting inappropriate behaviour will be subject to disciplinary action as outlined in the disciplinary policy. All players and supporters shall be solely responsible for their participants in which they are related to and any monetary and non monetary damages (if any) that may occur.
Under no circumstances is a parent or supporter to enter the opposing team's dressing room, unless invited by the opposing team official.
Coaches and other team officials, players, parents and supporters are not permitted in the officials’ dressing room, nor are they permitted to confront game officials about the game at any time.
Functions carried out by CCMHA teams shall be at the sole responsibility of the teams involved and not the responsibility of CCMHA.
CCMHA supports Hockey Canada's Abuse and Harassment Policies.
http://www.hockeynovascotia.ca/user/File/Governance/Policy%20on%20Prevention%20of%20Harassment.pdf
 

10.1 Parents & Supporters

Under no circumstances is a Parent or Supporter to approach the bench or a coach during or immediately after the game. The coach(es) shall be given a reasonable amount of time at the conclusion of a game to spend with the players. A Parent or Supporter may then indicate to the coach that he/she wishes to speak to the coach, and if granted, it shall be conducted in a respectful, courteous manner.
Parents & Supporters shall be supportive of their child/children, other children, the coaches, the team and other parents.
Parents & Supporters agree to follow the Dispute and Appeal Policy of CCMHA.
Parents & Supporters shall not solely focus on winning or your child being the best player, but rather shall focus on team play, fun and development.
Parents & Supporters shall not be critical of any coach, parent or another player. Much like players, parents are part of the team and shall support one another.
Any dispute, disagreement or issue shall be handled with respect and dignity as you would expect the same courtesy.
Parents & Supporters shall not contact Hockey Nova Scotia. Any questions, clarification or complaint shall be directed to the appropriate channel within CCMHA first, unless otherwise instructed by a member of the CCMHA Executive Committee.
Parents & Supporters shall not post any negative comments involving CCMHA or any of its Members on any social media or blog site including Facebook and Twitter.
Parents & Supporters shall not "coach" their child/children in a way that conflicts with the team coaches' philosophy. Secondary coaching confuses the child/children and ultimately affects play and encourages disrespect of an authority figure. Coaching your child/children behind the glass or from the stands confuses the child/children and disrespects the coaching staff.
Parents & Supporters shall be supportive of the CCMHA Hockey organization, its members, volunteers, Executive Committee and Board.
Parents & Supporters are not allowed on the benches or the ice at any time unless they are listed on the team "hard card", which shall also mean the Official Team Roster or Team Sheet Hard Card.
Parents & Supporters that want to discuss or indicate their displeasure with a call on the ice or coaching decision, in the absence of imminent danger, the 24 hour rule shall be strictly adhered to and enforced. There shall be no emails, phone calls or personal discussions until 24 hours after the event. Any contact during the 24 hour period will result in an immediate 1 Game Suspension for the offending Parent or Supporter.
 

10.2 Coaches & Team Officials

Coaches & Team Officials must strictly adhere to the Policies and Guidelines of CCMHA with an emphasis on Fair Play and Development.
Coaches & Team Officials are viewed to be the leaders and the authority figure and must lead by example.
Coaches & Team Officials must control their behaviour as they are the leaders of the children and have a direct impact on the perception of the CCMHA program.
Coaches & Team Officials must not use profane language at any time while in the presence of children.
Coaches & Team Officials must not abuse, criticize or disrespect another coach, game official, member of another team, parent or fan.
Coaches & Team Officials must not bully.
Coaches & Team Officials shall be held accountable for the performance of their team both on and off the ice. CCMHA Coaches shall not leave their team unsupervised during games and practices. Horseplay and bullying will not be tolerated.
Coaches & Team Officials must, to the best of their ability, ensure each player receives the same opportunity to develop and grow.
Overall, Coaches & Team Officials must display the professionalism and respect an average parent would expect in a volunteer community based hockey organization. Coaches are ultimately accountable to Parents and Supporters and an open channel of communication is required.
Coaches & Team Officials shall not post any negative comments involving CCMHA or any of its Members on any social media or blog site including Facebook and Twitter.
Any question, clarification, complaint shall be directed to the appropriate individual in CCMHA.
Coaches & Team Officials shall not contact Hockey Nova Scotia directly unless permission has been granted by an individual from the CCMHA Executive Committee.
Coaches and Team Officials can be suspended and removed for violating this code.
 

10.3 Players

Players shall respect their coaches, parents, fans and other team mates at all times.
Players shall never disrespect another player, coach or referee for alleged bad calls, missed calls, short shifts or any other reason which may occur in the game of hockey.
Players shall never intentionally hurt someone.
Players shall avoid the use of foul language.
Players shall never disrespect the CCMHA organization, its volunteers, Executive Committee or Board.
Players shall never disrespect Hockey Nova Scotia or any other hockey organization.
Players shall follow all reasonable direction of the coach, manager and other team officials.
Players shall not post any negative comments involving CCMHA or any of its Members on any social media or blog site including Facebook and Twitter.
Players shall not contact Hockey Nova Scotia directly unless permission has been granted by an individual from the CCMHA Executive Committee.
Players shall demonstrate a positive attitude to the game, practice and learning in general.
Players shall wear the equipment required by Hockey Nova and Hockey Canada including neck guards for players and plastic puck shields for goaltenders.
Arrive for games, practices and other team functions at the time specified by the team.
Maintain dressing rooms in a clean and orderly fashion. Clean up any garbage left in the room.
Respect the rules set out by the rink authorities.
Players can be suspended and removed for violating this code.
 

10.4 Board, Executive Committee and Volunteers

The Board, the Executive Committee and all volunteers shall abide by CCMHA Policies and By-laws.
Maintain the integrity, purpose and values of the organization at all times.
Respect the members, Board and Executive Committee and not cause any public embarrassment or humiliation.
Be supportive and respectful of each other.
Not use their position for personal profit, personal gain or their child/children's gain.
Not use their position to influence the selection of a team official or benefit any team or individual(s) within the organization.
Use the position for the benefit of CCMHA as a whole.
Act in an ethical manner at all times as one would expect from an organization of integrity.
Maintain the information of CCMHA including but not limited to financial information, strategy, actions or any matter or decision by the Board of Directors, Committee or sub-committee as confidential.
Any other person present in a Board, committee, sub-committee meeting shall be bound by this confidentiality provision.
Board Members can be suspended and removed for violating this code.
 

10.5 Breach of the Code of Conduct

CCMHA stipulates that any issues involving a breach of conduct by any member of CCMHA including Executive, Directors, Category Directors, Team Officials (Coaches, Assistants, Trainers, Managers etc.), Players, Parents and Supporters, shall be directed to the Discipline Committee.
Any Director or CCMHA Official, on receiving an Incident Report or Complaint Report, shall forward directly to the Chair of the Discipline Committee.
 

Reporting & Feedback

The INCIDENT REPORT FORM shall be used to provide feedback, submit ideas and complaints. Copies are available on the CCMHA website.
The Discipline Committee may choose upon the report of the Incident or Complaint, to issue an immediate suspension from all association functions. A Temporary suspension may also be issued until such time as a decision can be made by the Discipline Committee. The Discipline Committee may also determine if a hearing is required and shall set a date for such hearing.
 

Informal Process

If the majority of the Discipline Committee members believe that the matter can be dealt with on an informal basis without the necessity of a hearing, the committee may investigate the complaint, including accepting submissions (verbal or written) from the Complainant, the person(s) being investigated, and such other persons as may be required to ensure a fair and reasonable decision is rendered. The Discipline Committee shall provide written notice of its decision to the Complainant and the party being investigated. Should either the Complainant or the party being investigated feel that the informal process has not satisfactorily resolved the issue, either may request in writing, that the Discipline Committee undertake a formal hearing.
 

Formal Hearing

The Discipline Committee shall establish a date and time for the formal hearing.
At least 5 days prior to the hearing, both the Complainant and the Respondent (person being investigated or accused party) shall be issued a “Notice of Discipline Hearing” which shall set out the date, location and time of the hearing, the nature of the charge or alleged conduct. Any submissions provided to the Discipline Committee prior to the hearing by either party will be provided to all affected parties.
The Respondent shall be suspended from participation in or attendance at CCMHA activities pending the outcome of the hearing. The Respondent may make a written request to participate in or attend CCMHA activities. Such permission shall be at the sole discretion of the Discipline Committee and will be issued in writing.
The Respondent and the Complainant shall provide any information requested by the Discipline Committee at least 2 days prior to the hearing.
At least 2 days prior to the hearing, the Respondent and the Complainant shall provide the Discipline Committee with a list of the witnesses they intend to request appear at the hearing.
The Discipline Committee may also request the attendance of any other party whom the Committee believes should appear by delivering to each such witness a “Notice to Attend the Discipline Hearing” which shall set out the date, location and time of the hearing, the nature of the charge or alleged conduct and any information to be provided by the witness to the Discipline Committee prior to the hearing.
If either the Complainant or the Respondent fails to appear at the hearing, the hearing shall be conducted in the Complainant or Respondent’s absence with the witnesses and information available to the Discipline Committee.
 

Conduct of the Hearing

In accordance with CCMHA Conflict of Interest Policy, prior to the hearing, any member of the Discipline Committee who is in, or could be perceived to be in, a conflict of interest shall declare such conflict and leave the Hearing. This will also apply to any other stages subsequent and related to such hearing. The Board may direct replacement of members, including the Chair, in such circumstances.
The Chairperson of the Discipline Committee shall chair the Hearing and be responsible for the orderly conduct of the Hearing. If the Chairperson is not available, the remaining members of the Discipline Committee shall appoint a chairperson for the hearing who shall be responsible for the orderly conduct of the hearing.
The Discipline Committee shall provide each witness with an information sheet on the hearing process or, alternatively, may hold a briefing session immediately prior to the commencement of the hearing to ensure all parties understand the hearing process.
The witnesses will not be sworn nor will there be a transcript taken of the proceedings. Neither the Respondent nor the Complainant may make a tape, video or use other electronic media in the proceedings.
The Respondent and the Complainant must appear in person and may not be represented at the hearing by another individual or legal counsel. The only exception to this rule is that minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
The Discipline Committee comprises volunteers who are not versed in the application of law. Accordingly, neither the Respondent nor the Complainant may have legal counsel representing them at the hearing.
The Complainant and the complainant’s witnesses shall appear before the Discipline Committee first. Each witness will appear individually and will not be present in the hearing room during the presentation by other witnesses. The Respondent shall be present during these presentations and shall have the right to ask questions of each witness through the Committee Chairperson.
The Committee Chairperson may determine the relevance of any question asked by the Respondent. The Chairperson may then instruct the witness not to reply to a question deemed irrelevant and inform the Respondent of the reason why the question is not relevant. The question will be documented and remain part of the file for future reference.
The Respondent will then be asked to present their version of the events which led to the complaint, and to respond to the information provided by the Complainant and witnesses.
The Discipline Committee shall, with all dispatch, render a decision, and communicate that decision to both the Complainant and the Respondent. Such communication may be verbal at the outset but shall be confirmed in writing.
The Discipline Committee shall maintain a file on each matter referred to it and shall be comprised of the original complaint or incident report, copies of all “Notices of Discipline Hearing”, copies of all "Notices to attend Discipline Hearing", copies of the witness lists, the notes made by each member of the Discipline Committee during the hearing, and a copy of the written decision of the Committee.
The Discipline Committee Chairman, in the absence of the President, shall provide a written report of the outcome of the hearing to the President and Board.
 

10.6 DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE

The CCMHA Board of Directors shall appoint a Discipline Committee each year. The term of the Discipline Committee shall be one year. Any member of CCMHA  may be appointed to the Discipline Committee. The Discipline Committee shall be chaired by the Past President. The Discipline Committee shall consist of a minimum of 5 members with the deciding vote in the event of a tie, falling to the Chair.
 

10.7 DISCIPLINE

All players, parents & supporters, managers, coaches and other members are expected to abide by CCMHA Code of Conduct, as well as the For the Good of the Game principles, the acknowledgement of which is a condition of registration of the member. Members are expected to assume responsibility for those participants or supporters who attend any game, practice, team or CCMHA function, at their invitation. Violation of the CCMHA Code of Conduct or the For the Good of the Game principles, may result in disciplinary action being taken.
Standards of behaviour are communicated and may be updated throughout each season. It is recognised that behaviour may transgress outside acceptable standards and that disciplinary action may be required.
Such discipline may be applied to any member of CCMHA and their supporters and may take the form of, but are not limited to:
 

• a verbal reprimand,
• a written reprimand,
• a demand for an apology, either written or verbal, to any affected party,
• a suspension from participation in or at Association activities,
• continued participation in CCMHA under a discipline contract,
• a request for damages compensation for CCMHA damages,
• expulsion from CCMHA,
• a combination of two or more of the above.

The result of any disciplinary action taken may affect a member’s current standing or future appointment as a team official.
The non-observance or non-performance by a person of any sanction or discipline imposed by the Discipline Committee shall be deemed a breach of the CCMHA Code of Conduct and be the subject of review by the Discipline Committee for further action, which can include the suspension of the associated player from the bench and all team functions.
 

10.8 VIOLATIONS and PENALITIES

Class I Violations

Class I violations carry a minimum penalty of a one (1) week suspension from all practices, games, and/or any team activity. The suspension begins when the Discipline Committee has reached a decision on the issue; however the Discipline Committee has the authority to immediately suspend the offender until the investigation is complete. This time will count towards the overall suspension period.
Class I violations include, but are not limited to:
 

• Use of obscene or vulgar language or gestures to anyone at anytime.
• Abusive language and/or negative social media postings.
• Taunting by means of baiting, or ridiculing.
• Addressing a coach, official, player or CCMHA Volunteer in an unsportsmanlike, discourteous, or threatening manner.
• Questioning the coach(s) coaching during or after practices or games.
• Questioning the referees during or after games.
• Approaching a coach or referee immediately following a game to voice a complaint.

Class II Violations

Class II violations carry a minimum penalty of a thirty (30) day suspension from all practices, games, and/or any team activity. The suspension begins when the Discipline Committee has reached a decision on the issue; however the Discipline Committee has the authority to immediately suspend the offender until the investigation is complete. This time will count towards the overall suspension period.
Class II violations include, but are not limited to:
 

• Threats of physical violence towards any player, coach, parent, official, CCMHA volunteer, or spectator.
• Throwing of any object in the spectators viewing area, players bench, penalty box, locker room, or on the ice surface.
• Intentionally shoving or striking a player, coach, official or CCMHA Volunteer during any CCMHA function, whether in the locker room, on the ice, or at any time the team is getting together.
• Public disparagement of other members (allegations found to be false).
• Bullying, (as defined by Hockey Canada).
• Second class I violation of the same offense or third or subsequent class I violations.

Class III Violations

Class III violations carry a minimum penalty of a one (1) year minimum suspension from the program to permanent termination from the CCMHA organization. The suspension begins when the Discipline Committee has reached a decision on the issue; however the Discipline Committee has the authority to immediately suspend the offender until the investigation is complete. For Class III violations penalties will require ratification by a 2/3 majority of the Board of Directors, at a meeting where there is a quorum of the Board.
Class III violations include, but are not limited to:
 

• Use of alcohol or drugs at the arena or official team function (this does not apply to consumption of alcohol at a restaurant, hotel, or home after scheduled games or practices).
• Physical abuse of a player, coach, parent, official, CCMHA volunteer, or spectator.
• Bullying (as defined by Hockey Canada).
• Activities that violate Provincial or Federal Laws which create a safety risk to any member of the organization.
• Second Class II violation of the same offense or third or subsequent Class II violations.

Notification

• Parents will be informed of the Policy on Sports Conduct before the beginning of the season. Parents/guardians are required to acknowledge (by signature) that they received a copy of the Policy before their child may participate in CCMHA sanctioned games.

Right to Appeal

• Any parent has the right to appeal a decision of the Discipline Committee. The appeal is to be made in writing to the CCMHA Board within 10 days of the decision rendered by the Discipline Committee. The CCMHA Board of Directors (elected and appointed) will render a decision regarding the appeal, and once rendered, is final.

Reporting

• The President of the CCMHA organization will deliver an annual report to the organization at the Annual Meeting stating such particulars as number of Policy incidents, sanctions levied, and policies pursued.

Failure to Comply

• In the event the suspended party refuses to abide by the suspension, CCMHA will have no option other than to suspend the player from the bench for the duration of the suspension.

11 COMPLAINTS

CCMHA is committed to providing a safe and fun hockey environment based on fundamental values of equality, trust and mutual respect. An environment that leads to positive social and physical development for all players, parents, coaches and officials.
Any person who wishes to comment, complain or even compliment any witnessed behaviours are welcome to do so in writing, by email or by contacting the President of CCMHA. Once notified, the President will contact the Discipline Committee, or the police if in the opinion of the President, the police should be involved. All matters will be addressed in accordance with CCMHA values, Code of Conduct and Discipline Policy.
A Complaint may be raised by any member of CCMHA, by members of another association (through their association’s executive), by league officials or by members of the CCMHA Executive acting in response to a report from game officials or by any other party.
A Complaint must identify the time, place and participants as well as provide a summary of the incident. An Incident Report Form may be used to outline the Complaint. These forms may be obtained from the CCHMA website. In certain circumstances, the Executive Committee may choose to engage the Discipline Committee to investigate and render a decision on an incident even though a formal complaint has not been lodged.
Examples of incidents which may warrant disciplinary action are as follows:
 

• A player or team official who receives excessive game misconducts, gross or match penalties.
• A coach, who in the opinion of the Category Director, is being assessed too many bench penalties or penalties of a serious nature.
• Any member of CCMHA or their guests who repeatedly brings discredit to a team, team officials or CCMHA through frivolous and vexatious actions, violent, abusive or gross behaviour, on or off the ice.

CCMHA will not entertain lawyers present at any meetings, with the exception of a lawyer representing CCMHA.
The INCIDENT REPORT FORM shall be used to provide feedback, submit ideas and complaints. Copies are available on the CCMHA website.
 

11.1 Complaints Against Game Officials

CCMHA does not have authority to conduct hearings into the conduct of game officials.
Written complaints about game officials must be reported in writing, setting out the particulars of the incident and must be signed by the individual making the complaint and forwarded to the President of CCMHA. At no time shall a complaint, both verbal and written, be made to any association or organization other that CCMHA. The complaint may be sent to the Referees Association, as determined by CCMHA.
 

11.2 Order for Pursuing Resolution

Unless otherwise specified, the order for pursuing resolution of Issues, Concerns and Complaints in CCMHA is as follows:
 

• Coach
• VP Hockey Operations
• Discipline Committee (Written or oral presentation)
• Any Board Member
• President

12 DISPUTE AND APPEAL POLICY

12.1 APPEALS COMMITTEE

The CCMHA Board shall appoint an Appeals Committee each year. Members of the appeals committee shall not be members from the committee rendering the original decision, such as the Discipline Committee. The term of each Appeals Committee shall be one year. Any member of CCMHA may be appointed to the Appeals Committee. The Appeals Committee shall be chaired by the President of CCMHA or his/her delegate or such other individual(s) as may be designated by the Board of Directors.
 

12.2 APPEALS PROCESS

An Appeal may be raised by any member of CCMHA should a member feel that a decision of any committee has not satisfactorily resolved an issue.
The decision of any committee may be appealed to the Appeals Committee by filing written application to appeal, within fourteen (14) days of rendering of the decision or such extension of time as may be reasonably accepted by the Appeals Committee.
An Appeal must be in writing, must identify the issue being appealed and give details of the reason for the appeal.
The written appeal must be accompanied by an Appeal Fee of two hundred dollars ($200).
The Appeals Committee shall, in its sole opinion, determine whether the appeal shall be in the form of a new hearing or whether the matter can be dealt with based upon the written material and summaries before the prior Committee. The Appeals Committee may request further written material from the appellant and / or their witnesses and any affected party, if any. No new witness may be introduced to the appeals process. The Appeals Committee may also undertake the appeal hearing in the form of a new hearing wherein the Appeals Committee shall allow adequate time for each of the Complainant and Respondent to state their case as to why the appeal should be allowed or dismissed.
The Appeals Committee will advise the affected party of the Appeal (i.e., if the Appeal involves a Discipline issue and the Complainant appeals, the Respondent will be advised; if the Respondent appeals, the Complainant will be advised).
Conduct of the Appeal Hearing, if a new hearing is required:
 

• The Appeals Committee shall convene a meeting to hear the appeal within a reasonable period of time.
• In accordance with CCMHA Conflict of Interest Policy, any member of the Appeals Committee who is in, or could be perceived to be in, a conflict of interest shall declare such conflict prior to the Appeal Hearing and shall not participate in the Hearing.
• The Past President of CCMHA or his/her delegate shall chair the Appeal Hearing and be responsible for the orderly conduct of the Appeal Hearing. If the Chairperson is not available, the remaining members of the Appeals Committee shall appoint a chairperson for the Appeal Hearing who shall be responsible for the orderly conduct of the Appeal Hearing.
• The Appeals Committee shall provide the appellant (and, if any, any affected party notified of the Appeal) with an information sheet on the Appeal Hearing process or, alternatively, may hold a briefing session immediately prior to the commencement of the Appeal Hearing to ensure all parties understand the hearing process.
• The appellant and any affected party, will not be sworn nor will there be a transcript taken of the proceedings. If applicable, neither the appellant nor any affected party, if any, may make a tape recording, video or use other electronic media in the proceedings.
• The Appellant and any affected party, if any, must appear in person and may not be represented at the Appeal Hearing by another individual. The only exception to this rule is that minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• The Appeal Committee comprises volunteers who are not versed in the application of law. Accordingly, no party may have legal counsel representing them at the hearing.
• The Appellant and any affected party, if any, will appear individually and will not be present in the hearing room during the presentation of any other party.
• The Appeal Committee shall, with all dispatch, render a decision, and communicate that decision to both the Appellant and the affected party, if any. Such communication may be verbal, at the outset, but shall be confirmed in writing.

The Appeals Committee may make any decision the prior CCMHA Committee could have made (i.e., if applicable, it may lessen or increase any penalty imposed to ensure that a fair and reasonable decision is rendered).
Refunds - Appeals Fee:
 

• If the Appeals Committee overturns the decision and renders a decision in favour of the appellant, the appeals fee shall be refunded. In the event of a compromise judgement, the Appeals Committee may decide whether or not the appeal fee shall be refunded, in their sole discretion.
• A decision of Appeals Committee shall be final and binding on all parties.

14 COACH SELECTION POLICY

14.1 COACH SELECTION POLICY STATEMENT

The CCMHA Coach Selection Committee's goal is to select the most appropriate head coach for a team taking into account not only qualifications and experience but a coach that will demonstrate the use of the Coach Code of Conduct and the For the Good of the Game principles that give the players the most positive experience on and off the ice. The Coach Selection Committee will attempt to align the right coach with the right team.
Under no circumstances shall coaches and assistant coaches be paid to coach a CCMHA team. Exceptions may be granted by the CCMHA board to cover travel costs of a non-parent coach. If such exception is granted, the team shall be responsible for all costs.
The CCMHA Coach Selection Committee uses some or all of the following criteria in no particular order, to select the head coach of a team:
 

• Training
• Experience
• Background
• Philosophy
• Evaluations
• References

There is no predetermined weighting for the criteria as the information is used as a whole when selecting the most appropriate coach.
Coach selection is for one season only. All coach candidates must reapply each season for selection.
If all applicants for a team are deemed unsuitable, CCMHA is not obliged to appoint any coach. The position will remain vacant until a suitable candidate is found by the CCMHA Coach Selection Committee from either the membership at large or from outside candidates.
 

14.2 COACH SELECTION COMMITTEE

The Coach Selection Committee is responsible for making all final coach selection recommendations to the Board for final approval. This is done in conjunction with the Category Directors who participate as part of the Coach Selection Committee.
 

Committee Organization

The CCMHA Coach Selection Committee consists of, but not limited to, the following members:
 

• Provincial and House League Co-ordinators
• VP, Evaluations, Coach & Player Development
• Coach Development/Evaluation Director
• VP, Hockey Operations
• Category Directors
• President

Committee participation is subject to the CCMHA Conflict of Interest Policy. Should a conflict(s) exist amongst the CCMHA Coach Selection Committee, the President shall appoint such replacement member from the Board.
 

Coach Selection Qualifications

Coaches are selected taking into consideration the following selection criteria. Some qualification criteria comprise the recommended minimum qualifications for a coach at that level and category. Others simply contribute to the overall rating of the coach candidate.
An applicant not meeting the minimum training qualifications may be selected over one who meets or exceeds the stated qualifications. An applicant not meeting the minimum training qualifications who is selected as a coach must commit to attend the required courses in order to get those qualifications during the season.
 

Selection Criteria

Coach Selection shall be based on the following criteria, with no specific weighting or ranking on any particular section:
 

Training

Training qualification is based on the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) standard coach certifications.
All prospective head coaches in the CCMHA program MUST have the minimum designation, or have committed to obtaining the minimum designation before December 31 in the hockey season. Coach candidates may present registration details in the appropriate training session in lieu of designation. See the Minimum Qualification Requirements section for details on minimum training requirements for each category/level.
 

Experience

Experience qualification is based on:
 

• years as head coach
• years as assistant coach
• the category and level of the teams coached

Preference may be given to coach candidates that have demonstrated positive coaching experience and abilities for the teams they have coached.
 

Background

Background qualification is based on:
 

• playing hockey experience
• the category and level of the teams played on

Preference may be given to coach candidates that can demonstrate playing at a higher category and level and more years of playing.
 

Philosophy

What is the Coaches philosophy on:
 

1. Development
2. Discipline
3. Practice
4. Competitiveness
5. Fair Play
6. Evaluations
7. Travel & Tournaments

Evaluations

Evaluation qualification is based on the results of the yearly CCMHA Coach Evaluation Program. During each year the Coach Evaluation process produces a rating of each Coach in one of three categories:
 

• Acceptable to continue coaching
• Conditionally acceptable to continue coaching subject to the following: (more training, identified areas for improvement, probationary basis, assistant coach only, etc.)
• Unacceptable for continued coaching

Preference may be given to coach candidates that have positive CCMHA coaching history, evaluations and conduct.
Coach evaluations above will be assessed by the Coach Selection Committee and may result in the disqualification or lowering of preference for the coach candidate. See the CCMHA Coach Evaluation Program for a definition of incidents and the process by which CCMHA resolves them with coaches.

 

Coach Evaluation Form

Name of Coach         _______________________________________
Your feedback is valuable to help improve CCMHA. The purpose of this form is to assist coaches in developing their skills and to assist in the coach selection process. For questions that ask for a ranking of 1,2,3,4 or 5; Five means excellent, awesome, YES!, very positive etc, while 1 means NO, No improvement, glad the year is over and other negative words and expressions.
 

To be completed by the player:

1. Did you enjoy being on the hockey team?     1        2        3        4        5
2. Did you learn more about hockey?               1        2        3        4        5
3. Did your hockey skills improve?                    1        2        3        4        5
4. Are you planning to tryout for a hockey team next year?              YES    NO
5. What was your favourite activity in practice?
6. What was your least favourite activity in practices?
7. Did you think playing time was fair?                                            YES    NO
8. How could it have been better?
9. Do you think you had enough opportunity to ask questions?        YES    NO
10. What would you change to help next year's team?

 
To be completed by the parent:
 1. Did your child enjoy the hockey experience?                              1   2   3   4   5
 2. Do you feel your child became a better hockey player?     1   2   3   4   5
 3. Did your child gain a better perspective of teamwork?      1   2   3   4   5
 4. Did the hockey experience help your child mature?          1   2   3   4   5
 5. Did hockey help your child's self-confidence?                   1   2   3   4   5
 6. Was playing time administered appropriately?                  1   2   3   4   5
 7. Was the coach's public conduct at games acceptable?     1   2   3   4   5
 8. Do you feel your child was treated with respect?              1   2   3   4   5
 9. Rate the coach's communication with parents?                1   2   3   4   5
10. Please provide comments about the coach/coaching staff.
11.Please suggest changes you think would improve the program.

 
 

References

Coach candidates that do not have CCMHA evaluations must provide references that can verify their background and experience. References should include but are not limited to:
 

• coaching philosophy and style
• adherence to fair play
• conduct with officials
• character evaluation
• adherence to CCMHA Coach Code of Conduct principles

Interviews

In some cases, the Coach Selection Committee may choose to conduct interviews with candidate coaches in order to establish a better sense of candidate qualifications and suitability in the following areas:
 

• coaching philosophy and style
• concept of fair play
• conduct with officials
• character evaluation
• adherence to CCMHA Coach Code of Conduct principles

The need for an interview process will be determined by the Coach Selection Committee typically if circumstances arise such as:
 

• Multiple coach candidates have applied, and the qualifications are too closely matched to make a straightforward decision.
• One of the coaching candidates is new to the CCMHA organization. In such a case all perspective coaching candidates may be interviewed.

The need for interviews is entirely at the discretion of the CCMHA Coach Selection Committee.
 

Other Commitments

Preference may be given to coach candidates that are relatively free of other commitments (for example, coaching another team, extensive job related travel or volunteer time in non-hockey organizations).
The Coach Selection Committee will evaluate the level of other commitment and may include this as a factor in the selection process.
 

14.3 MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

NCCP Course Level
Speak Out
Safety Initiation Coach Level Dev I
Level
Checking Skills
Initiation _ _ _
Novice _ _ _
Atom _ _ _ Highly recommended
Pee Wee Tiers 1 & 2 _ _ _ _ _
Pee Wee Remaining Tiers _ _ _ _
Bantam Tiers 1 & 2 _ _ _ Highly recommended
Bantam Remaining Tiers _ _ _ Highly recommended
 

15 COACH SELECTION PROCESS

The coach selection process consists of four distinct steps.
 

15.1 IDENTIFYING COACH CANDIDATES

Every coaching volunteer must submit a completed CCMHA Volunteer Application Form indicating the volunteer position they wish to hold. This includes specification of the role (head coach, assistant coach or manager) and category (Timbits, Novice, Atom, etc).
Application forms are available from the CCMHA website
 

15.2 SECURITY AND REFERENCE CHECKS

Security and reference checks are mandatory and shall be performed as follows:
 

• New Coach: the Coach Selection Committee, by appropriate representative, shall ensure that all 3 references are checked for applicants who have not coached for CCMHA before. All information supplied by references shall be recorded on the back of the CCMHA Volunteer Application Form.
• Coach candidates MUST complete and submit a Criminal Records Check and Child Abuse Registry Check to the Coach Development/Evaluation Director as required by Hockey Nova Scotia Guidelines.

Candidates who have not completed the forms prior to the first scheduled game of the year will be replaced.
Failure to pass the security or reference check will automatically result in disqualification of the coach candidate.
 

15.3 SELECTING FROM THE CANDIDATE POOL

The selection process is:
 

• Assign coach candidates to each team based on player affiliation. In the case where there is no player affiliation, then the Coach Selection Committee will assign a qualified coach to a team that is both short of coach candidates and for which they are qualified to coach.
• Note that unaffiliated coach candidates may be considered for one of several different coaching positions, whereas affiliated coaches will typically only be considered for coaching a team with an affiliated player. This reflects the typical situation of few unaffiliated coach candidates and a strong desire by affiliated coaches to coach the affiliated player.
• Determine which teams have no coach candidates assigned to them and recruit coach candidates to fill the position.
• Select the most appropriate coach from the set of candidates assigned to each team as head coach.
• As a requirement all coaching applicants must be present for all evaluation scrimmage sessions.
• Qualification is based on the criteria defined in the Coach Selection Policy section.

• In situations of multiple coach applicants, the unsuccessful coaches will be notified that they were not successful.

• Under no circumstances does the CCMHA have a responsibility to explain to a parent group the reason why one coach was selected over another.

15.4 SELECTION OF ASSISTANT COACHES

Typically head coaches will select their coaching staff; however the Coach Selection Committee reserves the right to recommend and/or refuse an individual’s inclusion on team based on previous coaching, evaluations, or transgressions related to CCMHA Policies and Guidelines or behaviour issues.
Assistant coaching is a major commitment of time and this must be considered by individuals prior to putting their name forward so as not to impact the team. Under no circumstances are coaches or assistant coaches allowed to coach in two different associations within the same division.
Should a head coach wish to appoint a non-parent assistant coach, the CCMHA Coach Selection Committee must approve such appointment and he/she will be subject to the Coach Selection Criteria. Consent may also be requested from existing team assistant coaches and assistant coaching candidates.
 

15.5 EVIDENCE OF EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

An applicant may be asked to provide copies of training certificates and other qualification as may be requested by the CCMHA Coach Selection Committee. Failure to provide such requested documentation may result in disqualification from the coach selection process.
 

15.6 Parent/Coach Selection

Coaches are selected by the CCMHA Coach Selection Committee. A parent/coach that has a player trying out for any team, can only be selected once the Evaluators have determined that his son or daughter has been placed on the team in question.
 

15.7 APPEALS

The selection of a coach candidate may be appealed under the CCMHA Appeal Policy by the unsuccessful coach candidate. An appeal may be made by the parents of a team with the support of no less than a two-thirds majority of the members of the affected team. Only one member of a family will be considered in determining the two-thirds majority.

 

16 CCMHA PLAYER SELECTION & EVALUATION POLICY

 

Mission Statement

Cumberland County Minor Hockey Association exists to provide a positive learning and maturing experience for young athletes in a minor hockey setting.  In structuring these experiences, Cumberland Minor Hockey must lead by example, recognizing that these experiences may have a profound effect on the future attitudes, moral development and community involvement of these young people. 
The intent of Cumberland County Minor Hockey is to provide an opportunity for all skill levels to participate in a well-organized and structured hockey program.  The qualities of sportsmanship and good citizenship will be promoted and the welfare, education and social development of the participants shall be the paramount objective.
  TEAM SELECTION POLICY AND PROCEDURE
 

Guiding Principles

• The best interest of the players will always come first.
• All players will have the opportunity to play at a level compatible with their skill, ability, attitude, experience and development needs & requirements.
• Tryouts will be completed in a fair and timely manner and be a positive learning and growth experience for the players.
• The Team Selection Committee is expected to act with the utmost respect and integrity.

Initiation Program

The Cumberland County Minor Hockey Association IP Program consists of three levels:
 

1. IP1 - This program is focused on children who are just being introduced to the game of hockey and have not played organized hockey with a minor hockey association.
2. IP2 - This program is primarily focused on second year players who have spent one season with a minor hockey association.
3. IP3 - This will be comprised mostly of third year players.

Players may be moved up or down in IP based upon their abilities and adequate space in the group. This decision is made in consultation with the Parents and Supporters keeping in mind the players best interest and their continuous development. 
IP Level players do not play regular season games but they play in jamborees and tournaments as available throughout the season. The Amherst Stadium Divider Boards will be used during IP practices in Amherst to increase the amount of ice time available to each group. Each IP Group will allot a minimum of 25 minutes for a cross ice game once per week.
Team selection in IP is random. For all other players the following procedures for team selection is mandatory for all teams in CCMHA.
 

1. The Team Selection Committee shall consist of the Team Coaches for that age group and approved CCMHA Evaluators.
2. Evaluation forms must receive prior approval from CCMHA.
3. Players will be given a jersey with a number. The evaluators will identify the players by this number and the jersey color throughout the team selection process.  A master sheet indicating the player name and identifying jersey and number will be kept by the coach.
4. Upon completion of the team ALL evaluation forms are to be submitted to CCMHA.
5. Team selection will adhere to Hockey Canada Guidelines.
6. Upon completion of Team Selection Process the Head Coaches will be named.
7. The Team Selection Committee shall meet with the players, parents and supporters to inform them of the tryout details, requirements, schedule and timing of the player selection.
8. The Team Selection Committee is committed to ensure all players get placed on the team best suited to their skills, experience and development requirements.
9. All players for each division and/or age group will begin the team selection process together. After two (2) hours of ice time, the Team Selection Committee will invite players to the "A" and "AA" selection camp.
10. House League Players will be assigned to teams and provided with a practice and game schedule.
11. The "A" and "AA"  Team Selection Committee will evaluate the players hockey skills as well as hockey sense. Practice Drills, inter-squad games, 3 on 3 are all encouraged. Evaluation must include a minimum of two (2) exhibition games.
12. The Team Selection Committee reserves the right to seek additional opinions from any individual(s) with the selection of the final few players.
13. In the event of any selection disagreement within the Team Selection Committee, the matter may be referred to CCMHA to mediate a resolution of the issue.
14. Once a player has been named to a team, any player changes must be referred to CCMHA and a meeting held with the parents/guardians to discuss what is in the best interest of the player.
15. Final team selection must be completed no later than October 31st and not sooner that October 15th.
16. Ideally Teams will consist of 15 skaters and 2 goalies. Hockey NS guidelines for maximum numbers will be adhered to. CCMHA reserves the right to make adjustments to this depending on registration requirements.
17. Sensitivity, respect and consideration to the self-image of the players should be foremost.
18. Complaints and protests concerning player selection shall be submitted in writing to CCMHA.
19. For AAA teams gate revenue from the tryouts should support, but not exceed, the cost of the ice and all reasonable direct administrative and operational expenses for conducting tryouts.  AA, A and B teams may be assessed a tryout fee to cover the cost of the ice rental.
20. It is understood that final selections to a team are often made to fit the needs of the team after the “core” of the team has been identified. The Team Selection Committee has the latitude to select players using the above criteria and a range of other determinants (position, flexibility, work ethic, creativity, goal scorer, etc.).
21. During the team selection process, the Team Selection Committee will document the determining factors regarding the reasons the last 3 to 4 players were chosen over players not selected.
22. The Team Selection Committee for each division will submit the Final Team Rosters to CCMHA for approval. Once approval is received, the Player Notification Process can begin.

Player Notification Process

Parents and players will be notified by any member of the Team Selection Committee by one of the following options:
 

• Personal Contact, ie a one on one interview with the Coach
• Phone call

Parents wishing to discuss the outcome of the selection process with the Team Selection Committee will be able to contact the Committee after a 24-hour waiting period.
Coach’s Comments

 

Appeal Process

Under no circumstances will any member of the committee be approached to discuss any Player Assessment Report.
If a Parent or Supporter disagrees with the decision of the Selection Committee concerning their child, then the procedure for communicating the disagreement is as follows:
Step 1
After a 24-hour cool-down period, contact the Team Head Coach to discuss your questions/concerns.
Step 2
If you still have issues you have 48 hours to contact an Executive member of  CCMHA. Submit in writing the Players name, the team the player is trying out for and contact information. Outline in the written submission the concerns of the selection.
Step 3
CCMHA will require time to review the Player Evaluation Report and consult with the Coach. Within 7 days, a meeting to discuss the Team Selection Process will be scheduled. At no time will discussion of a competing Player’s report be entertained. If a session is deemed warranted, the meeting will be to discuss the Player Assessment Report of the player in question, not the placement of competing players.
The above steps have been introduced to deal with Player Selection complaints in an efficient and professional manner. Any escalation that involves inappropriate behaviour before, during, or after the evaluation process may warrant disciplinary action as described in the PENALITIES and VIOLATIONS  Section of the CCMHA Policies and Procedures Manual which include:
 

• Written warning.
• Short-term suspension.
• Long-term suspension.

17 NSF AND REFUND POLICY
 

17.1 NSF CHEQUE POLICY

The NSF fee for each returned cheque is $50.00. Upon receipt of an NSF cheque, the Registrar will suspend the registration of the player(s) until such time as:
 

• The registration fee is paid in full and cleared through the bank along with NSF and all other charges;
• Alternative arrangements respecting payment have been made satisfactorily to the Registrar in his/her sole discretion.

In all cases, the fees and all other charges must be paid in full or alternative arrangements made prior to the selection of the teams by CCMHA. Failure to fully pay the fees and all other charges or alternative payment arrangements being made by the selection of the teams, will result in the player(s) registration being revoked for the season or approval of any transfer requests.
For payments of fees that are made subsequent to the establishment of the teams, NSF payments and any related charges must be made within fifteen (15) days from notice or the child/children will be suspended until such time as payment is made in full.
 

17.2 REFUNDS POLICY

Refunds for players withdrawing from any or all programs will be paid, upon written application to the Registrar, less a $100.00 service charge fee, according to the following schedule:
 

• No portion of a late registration fee will be refunded;
• Players or parents suspended or expelled for disciplinary reasons shall be ineligible for a refund fee;
• Registrar and Treasurer are jointly charged with the responsibility of using reasonable discretion with respect to portioned months, (e.g. refund request received January 13 for a player injured December 3, and now known to be unable to return before the season end. Refund will then be based on participation for the months of October and November only that is 30% reduction)
• For players withdrawing as a result of a residential move outside of CCMHA boundaries, the $100.00 service fee will not be charged. Proof of new residence will be required along with written application for withdrawal.
• For players withdrawing voluntarily for personal reasons, both the Registrar and Treasurer will use reasonable discretion with respect to any refunds of fees, subject however to a $100.00 service fee.
• No refunds will be allowed after December 31.

A refund example:
A Pee Wee player with registration of $580.00 withdraws as of Nov. 15:
Services fee ($100.00)
October & November ($174.00)
fee prorated, i.e., 15% per month
Net Refund $306.00
 

• There will be no refunds or release of a player until all equipment, raffle tickets, outstanding funds or such other amounts owing to CCMHA have been paid and accounted for.
• A request for refund of fees as a result of a non-CCMHA hockey injury that results in a players inability to continue participating in CCMHA Hockey programs must be supported by satisfactory evidence (in the sole discretion of the Registrar and Treasurer) of such injury and may be subject to a $100 Service Fee.

18 LOGO AND TEAM APPAREL POLICY

CCMHA recognizes that a standard set of colours may provide for recognition of teams when participating in competition; cost benefits for equipment purchase; and a unifying experience for players, team officials and followers. Supplementary clothing is entirely optional, however, explicit specification for products bearing the CCMHA logo are designed to provide season-to-season continuity and reduce costs to parents.
 

18.1 LOGO

All teams and members must purchase any supplementary apparel bearing the CCMHA logos from approved supplier(s) as indicated by CCMHA. Any exceptions must be approved by the CCMHA Executive Committee.
Other than as stipulated above, no team or member may use the logo without written consent of the Executive Committee. The President or his delegate must approve all correspondence bearing the logo.
Team name, player name, player number may appear in addition to the CCMHA logo.
 

18.2 COLOURS

Association colours shall be purple, black and white.
 

18.3 SUPPLEMENTARY CLOTHING

All supplementary clothing is purchased by parents as a matter of personal choice. No stipulation shall be made by team officials or others requiring the purchase of supplementary clothing and no player shall be penalized for not participating in a purchase plan. Parents are encouraged to participate in accordance with their team's wishes.
Coaches and other team officials are encouraged to participate in the purchase or supplementary clothing on an equal basis with all parents. CCMHA recommends that teams not subsidize the purchase of supplementary clothing for coaches and other team officials.
Supplementary clothing, purchased as team wear, shall comply with association colours and specifications to qualify to bear CCMHA Hockey logo.
CCMHA identifies preferred vendors each year for teams and parents to buy clothing. CCMHA prides itself on the branding and consistent look of clothing across our organization. Any deviation from the purchase from the preferred supplier must be approved by the CCMHA Executive Committee.
 

19 EQUIPMENT POLICY

All equipment (jerseys, goaltender equipment, coaching aids, etc.) loaned out to coaches, players or parents is the property of CCMHA and must be returned by the end of the season on the date requested by the Board or the Equipment Coordinator.
Any player or parent not returning equipment on loan shall have the cost of the items added to their registration for the following season or deducted from any fees due from CCMHA.
Those players not returning to CCMHA and refusing to return the equipment may be subject to civil court action to recover the cost of the items.
A coach or parent may request an extension of time prior to the specified annual return date.
 

19.1 GOALTENDER

A set of goaltender equipment consists of one pair of leg pads, one pair of gloves, one chest/arm protector and one equipment bag.
All Novice teams will have access to a minimum of 1 set of goaltender equipment. Novice and Atom teams will also be issued one goal stick.
Coaches shall monitor the goaltender equipment of goaltenders in the Novice and Atom levels for abuse and proper maintenance by their player. If a piece of goaltender equipment is returned and has been misused, it will not be replaced and the goaltender will have to purchase his/her own.
There have been some cases of abuse of equipment such as players using equipment for street hockey or not properly drying the equipment after a game. Any player found to have abused the goaltender equipment in this or any other manner shall have their equipment privileges cancelled and shall no longer be allowed to use association equipment. The cost of replacement or repair shall be added onto the player’s registration fees or deducted from any fees due from CCMHA.
Off season use of goaltender equipment shall be subject to rental fees. Only players registered with CCMHA for the following season will be allowed to rent out equipment.
Goaltender equipment will NOT be rented to:
 

5. Hockey schools.
5. Players participating in spring hockey.

Goaltender equipment may be rented for the spring and summer to players attending goalie schools upon proof of registration and acceptance.
Any player found to have abused this policy shall have the equipment recalled and any monies paid or forfeited. He/she will no longer be allowed the privilege of renting association equipment.
Used equipment will be sold at a competitive value when no longer required by CCMHA Hockey.
Goaltender equipment shall not be used for any dry land training. Anyone found using this equipment for dry land training or street hockey will forfeit its use and be subject to any damage or replacement costs.
CCHMA Hockey shall only be responsible for repairs to equipment owned by CCMHA Hockey and players requiring repairs to their own privately owned equipment shall be responsible for that cost.
Goaltender equipment will be rented out to the various divisions and players as noted below.
Novice: All goaltender equipment will be issued to the coach and he/she will be responsible for its care.
It is his/her responsibility to ensure that the equipment is properly stored and dried after each game or practice. No user fee will be charged.
Atom & Peewee: All goaltender equipment may be rented to individual players for the playing season for a fee as determined by the Executive Committee. Players may choose to rent all the equipment or use only those items of equipment required.
Bantam: Leg pads, if available, will be available for rental at a fee as determined by the Executive Committee.
Should a piece of equipment be returned to the Equipment Coordinator for any reason and found to have been abused, it shall not be returned or replaced. The player will then be responsible to:
Purchase his/her own replacement equipment
Pay for the cost of repair or replacement of the abused equipment.
 

19.2 JERSEYS

CCMHA will supply game jerseys to all teams.
A Sweater fee of $250 per team will be charged.
Only CCMHA issued jerseys will be worn by teams/players during games.
Name bars are allowed on CCMHA jerseys subject to the following conditions:
1. They are consistent looking amongst all players;
2. Parents and the team take full responsibility for application, removal and any damage to the jerseys as a result of name bars.
Damage to jerseys or equipment shall be assessed at the sole discretion of the CCMHA Equipment Coordinator.
No patches or crests of any kind, other than the CCMHA logo, shall be worn on any association jerseys unless specifically authorized in writing by the Executive Committee or as a requirement of Hockey Canada or Hockey Nova Scotia.
Game jerseys are to be worn during games.
Game jerseys may be worn by players who are involved in a fundraising event in order to identify themselves, such as in bottle drives.
 

19.3 SURPLUS JERSEYS

Jerseys that are no longer needed by CCHMA or have served their life expectancy can be sold to coaches as practice jerseys should they wish to buy them at a fair price. The Jersey shall be marked to indicate it is a practice jersey and no longer on our inventory.
 

19.4 SCORE SHEETS

Each season, CCMHA purchases enough game sheets to last the season. Sufficient game sheets will be issued to the Category Directors by the Registrar for their teams. Coaches shall monitor the use of these sheets and not issue them in excess of what is required.
 

19.5 PUCKS, PUCK BAGS AND PYLONS

Teams will be supplied each season with twenty-five (25) pucks and one puck bag. Any replacements over and above this for lost or stolen pucks will be the responsibility of the team. The twenty five (25) pucks issued to a team shall be turned in at the end of the season.
Each team shall be issued 8 pylons that are to be returned at the end of the season. Any replacements over and above this for lost or stolen pylons will be the responsibility of the team.
 

19.6 FIRST AID KITS

Each team shall be issued one (1) first aid kit.
First aid kits are to be replenished as required and are to be funded by the team.
Complete first aid kits are to be returned by the end of the season.
 

20 SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM & FUNDRAISING POLICIES

Money should never be a hindrance to any player who has the desire, skill and talent to play hockey at any level. Therefore, the objectives of the CCMHA Fundraising & Sponsorship Program are:
 

1. Help make hockey affordable &
2. Provide financial assistance.

The objective of CCMHA Fundraising & Sponsorship Program is to foster the development of our players. The underlying principles of the Program are to promote team and association unity and encourage a philanthropic vision which comes above personal gain.
 

20.1 General

Fundraising and Sponsorship make hockey more affordable for players and their families and so both are encouraged.
The Fundraising & Sponsorship Program Policies are required to ensure that fundraising & sponsorship activities are acceptable in nature, that all external communications are consistent with the image of CCMHA, and that no sponsor is subjected to excessive requests for funding.
The Board of Directors for CCMHA governs all fundraising & sponsorship activities and may reject, or require additional information if any activity is perceived to be in conflict with the spirit of CCMHA. The Fundraising and Sponsorship Program is administered by the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee. This Committee will be made up of a minimum of one representatives from each team, the CCMHA Treasurer and Chairperson from and appointed by the Board of Directors.
CCMHA may, at the discretion of the Board of Directors, initiate association-wide fundraising activities. The Board of Directors shall determine the level of required team participation. A percentage of the proceeds from CCMHA fundraisers shall be returned to the team to be applied to team fees. This percentage will be determined by the Board and communicated to teams in advance.
CCMHA will post Sponsors on our website in accordance to our sponsorship structure, in alphabetical order as an over-all thank you. Sponsors may also be advertised on other items such as banners. They shall not be displayed on visible playing equipment such as jerseys, socks, skates, helmets, pants, sticks, etc. without written permission from the Sponsorship & Fundraising Committee.
CCMHA members shall NOT accept sponsorships, IF the sponsors insist on conditions which are contrary to CCMHA policies and/or detrimental to CCMHA. 
Teams must forward Sponsorships and Fundraising proceeds to the CCMHA Treasurer via the team fundraising & sponsorship representative. CCMHA Treasurer shall keep track of, and deposit cheques, and confirmation forms to be reconciled and a report given to each team and the Chairperson. All sponsorships & fundraising activities are subject to Board Approval.
No team shall be in direct competition with one another for sponsorship or at any fundraising event within CCMHA. Team and individual fundraising at CCMHA tournaments will not be permitted without approval of the Board of Directors.
COLD CALLING IS NOT ALLOWED.
Any fundraising and sponsorship activities outside the scope of this policy must first be presented to the Chairperson who will then seek Board approval.
All Fundraising & Sponsorship cheques must be made payable to: Cumberland County Minor Hockey Association (CCMHA).
Fundraising & Sponsorship may occur at the Association, Team and/or Player Level.
 

1. Association/Division Sponsor: An Association Sponsor may be a corporation, organization or individual that provides funding for the Association. Consideration will also be given to the Sponsor name being given to a division. For example Tim Hortons my sponsor the entire IP Program and name the program Timbits. Funds raised through Association sponsorship shall be used to offset costs such as ice rentals, Officials and development.
   • Platinum Sponsorship $10,000
   • Gold Sponsorship $5,000
   • Silver Sponsorship $2,500
   • Bronze Sponsorship $1,000
2. Team Sponsor: A Team Sponsor may be a corporation, organization or individual that provides funding for the a team. Team Sponsor's name will become part of the team name, for example the Amherst Fire Department Ramblers, or the Archway Insurance Ramblers. The Funds raised through team sponsorship shall be used by the team for the benefit of the entire team.

• First Star $2,000
• Second Star $1,000
• Third Star $750
• Power Play $ _____________ (any amount)

3. Player Sponsor Jersey Bar(s) - $500.00: A Player Sponsor may be a corporation, organization or individual that provides funding for a specific Player. For $500.00 Player Sponsors are entitled to a Sponsorship Jersey Bar(s). All Jersey Bars must comply to CCMHA Standards. The Player Sponsor is also responsible for the cost of the Jersey Bar(s). Funds raised through Player Sponsorship shall effectively be distributed to Individual player's registration costs and the remainder credited to the team account.

Compliance with the policy is mandatory. Failure to comply will be addressed by the Board of Directors. Sanctions may include forfeiture of all funds and suspension of all those involved including the Coaches, Managers, Players, Parents and Supporters.
 

20.2 Sponsorship

Teams are encouraged to solicit team sponsorships, the proceeds of which shall be applied to team fees and other team expenses. The Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee shall present team sponsorship categories, prices and benefits to the Board for approval.
Any expense associated with servicing a team sponsor (i.e. complimentary tickets, thank-you gift, logo screening, etc.) shall be a responsibility of the respective team.
To ensure that proposed team sponsorships are not in conflict with other CCMHA sponsorship agreements, are appropriate for a youth sports club, and are in compliance with HNS and Hockey Canada rules, all new proposed team sponsorships must receive prior approval from the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee. If sponsor markings are to be added to uniforms, prior approval of the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee must be obtained.
If a sponsor or donor with an offer to support a team approaches the team directly, (this will typically be parents, friends, or contacts of a player or coach), details are to be passed to the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee which will carry out all communication necessary to secure the sponsorship/donation, to provide a receipt, and pass the funds to the team involved. The team manager will be copied on this communication.
It is possible that both CCMHA solicitation and an offer made by a Team Contact may result in two potential sponsors, while only one is required. The Team decides which one to accept. The sponsor that is not selected will be informed by the person that found them.
Teams shall NOT accept sponsorships, if the sponsors insist on conditions which are contrary to CCMHA policies and/or detrimental to CCMHA.
Teams must forward Sponsorship Form and cheques to the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee via the team fundraising & sponsorship representative. Each sponsorship received must have a Sponsorship Form completed to ensure appropriate processing and credit to each team. The Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee will submit to the CCMHA Treasurer all cheques for deposit.
It is the team fundraising & sponsorship representative's responsibility to deliver the sponsor bars, plaques, tax receipts/letter to each player's family for them to deliver to their respective sponsors. It is expected that fundraising & sponsorship representatives will keep a copy of the Sponsorship form to ensure that all deliveries have been fulfilled.
Sponsor bars must be hand-stitched or stitched in a manner that will enable easy removal at the end of the season on the back of the bottom of the sweaters.
CCMHA will post names of the sponsors on its website in alphabetical order as an over-all thank you.
CCMHA requires that all teams submit sponsorship proposals to the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee for review and Board approval.
Donations are to be communicated to the Fundraising and Sponsorship Committee in the same way as sponsorships. Teams have the discretion to acknowledge donations by printing names or logos of donors on banners, social media pages, etc.
CCMHA will issue a receipt to any company or individual making a donation or sponsorship.
 

20.3 Team & Individual Fundraising

An effective fundraising group is a critical part of a team’s success throughout the season. In addition to the prescribed fundraising program, teams & individuals may select to raise funds through other means. Some common ways to raise funds could include:
 

• Bottle drives
• Car washes
• Garage sales
• Bake sales
• Walk-a-thon (or other variation)
• Product sales (i.e., chocolates)
• 50/50 Draw
• Ticket sales

All activities, once decided upon by teams & individuals, are subject to CCMHA Board approval.
CCMHA requires that all teams & individuals submit fundraising proposals to the Fundraising and Sponsorship Committee for review and approval prior to any event taking place.
Each team will assign a fundraising & sponsorship representative, manager or assistant manager to facilitate the fundraising and sponsorships in accord with this Policy. At the start of the season an annual fundraising plan (this is not the same as the budget) for each team & individual must be submitted to the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee via the responsible Team Representative indicating the types and dates of proposed fundraisers.
 

• Proposals for each fundraising event will be submitted to the board using the CCMHA Fundraising Form for approval at a regular, scheduled Board meeting. Only after board approval may the event take place.
• The Team Fundraising & Sponsorship Representative is responsible for all documentation, financial management, and event reporting as required by CCMHA.
• 100% of the fundraising event net proceeds will go to the team account. Expenses to be supported by receipts, which the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee may ask to review.
• All money collected through fundraising events will be used for team activities and not for the benefit of the parents.
• Events that are conducive to joint initiatives between teams should be considered to divide the workload and increase the financial return.

The following fundraising events shall not be approved to raise funds for any CCMHA team due to legal and/or insurance reasons:
a. Any event involving the sale or distribution of alcohol.
b. Any event involving use of fireworks.
c. Any event that infringes on the lottery & gaming rules in Nova Scotia, or any other laws.
Fundraising shall not exceed the annual team budget. Surplus Team account balances will be used to offset development activities across the Association.
CCMHA has developed a Fundraising & Sponsorship Policy to help teams & individuals garner the financial support they require to be successful while providing structure and guidelines that are in accordance with CCMHA values.
The Board of Directors for CCMHA governs all fundraising activities.
All Parents, Players and Supporters are encouraged to participate equally in fundraising activities. Players and/or Parents are entitled to forgo participation in a designated team fundraising activity however they shall be expected to contribute to the team budget the equivalent of the participating players’ share of the proceeds. Should a Parent or Player be unable to participate in a team fundraiser on an isolated basis and for a legitimate reason, the team Parents will decide whether the Parent will be expected to contribute a pro-rated amount to the team. Alternatively, the team may opt to allocate the proceeds of a fundraiser to only those Players participating, e.g. if 9 of 12 Players participate, the proceeds would be divided by 9 and applied to the team fees for those Players.
No team shall be in direct competition with another at any fundraising event within CCMHA. Prior approval to fundraise at any tournament must be submitted to the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee for Board approval to avoid any conflicts
 

20.4 Communications

General information regarding sponsorship for the use of sponsors and members, including options and amounts (minimum donations) will be listed on the web site and updated from time to time by Board decision.
Formal communications regarding sponsorships and donations are to be carried out by CCMHA Sponsorship & Fundraising Committee, including:
 

1. Solicitations for Association Sponsorship. CCMHA routinely approaches local firms, especially those who have sponsored us before. This is the only acceptable way of soliciting. A team may ask the Fundraising & Sponsorship Committee to approach untapped sources.
2. Follow-up letters
3. Invoices
4. Receipts

21 FAIR PLAY POLICY

21.1   What is fair play?

Fair play is a complex notion that comprises and embodies a number of values that are fundamental not only to sport but also to everyday life:
 

• Respect
• Friendship
• Team spirit
• Fair competition
• Sport without doping
• Respect for written and unwritten rules such as equality, integrity, solidarity, tolerance, care, excellence and joy.

These are the building blocks of fair play that can be experienced and learned both on and off the ice.
 

21.2   Fair Seldom Means Equal

As usual the more extreme the example, the greater the agreement. Who could argue with the coach who sits a player on the bench for a gross violation of the rules?
For example, a player retaliates after being tripped with a violent 2 handed swing to the head of the opposing player. Not only has this violent action negated a pending man advantage, the team now finds themselves short handed and perhaps a player short for the remainder of the game, and likely a few more games as well.
Please answer YES or NO
 

• Is it fair for a Player to take long shifts?
• Is it fair for a Player to hog the puck and not pass to players that are wide open?
• Is it fair for a Player to continually make bad decisions that hurt the team? For example trying to beat three players instead of dumping the puck in.
• Is it fair for a Player to ignore the team philosophy and work ethic?
• Is it fair for a Player to take retaliatory penalties?
• Is it fair for a Player to take "bad" penalties?
• Is it fair for a Player not to give 100%?

Not withstanding the above, ALL Players will receive the same opportunity to play in all situations so that they can develop. Winning is great, but it is absolutely a secondary objective. Coaches must roll all lines and have no special teams or anything of the sort. When special teams are used and players miss ice time, players lose confidence and will not develop.
The coach will have ultimate discretion in the last five (5) minutes of a "meaningful" or "significant" game.

INCIDENT REPORT FORM
This form is to be utilized by anyone to report:
 

• an incident of unacceptable behaviour.
• to comment on the operations of CCMHA.
• To compliment a Coach, Referee or CCMHA.

Submit Completed form to:
President CCMHA Ramblers
PO Box 514
Amherst, Nova Scotia
B4H 4A1
e-mail: dorsayroad@esatlink.ca
DATE & TIME OF INCIDENT:     _____________________________________________
NAME OF INDIVIDUAL(S):      ____________________________________
ASSOCIATED WITH WHAT TEAM?:          ______________________________________
NAME(S) OF ADDITIONAL WITNESSES: _____________________________________
Please provide a clear description of the behaviour witnessed:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
You can expect the CCMHA to investigate your report. Unfortunately a written response to all reports is not possible as our volunteers do not have the resources to do so. We do however hope to be able to contact complaints at some point during or after the investigation.
Please summarize your expectation of the outcome resulting from your report:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
If additional space is required, please use reverse side or attach separately.
Your Name:  ________________________________________________
Address:       ________________________________________________
City:             ________________________________________________
Postal Code: _______________________________
Signature:     _______________________________   Date: ____________
E-Mail:          _______________________________   Phone:___________
 
ABUSIVE PARENT
DISPUTE RESOLUTION POLICY
 
Rationale:
 
It is the policy of Hockey Nova Scotia (HNS) that there shall be no abuse or bullying, whether physical, emotional or sexual of any participant in any of its programs. Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada expects every parent, volunteer and staff member to take all reasonable steps to safeguard the welfare of its participants and protect them from any form of maltreatment.
 
Further, HNS expects that no volunteer should experience abuse or bullying, whether physical, emotional or sexual as a result of any parent or guardian of a participant.
 
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all players and volunteers, whether coach, assistant Coach, trainer, manager or administrator, this policy will strictly be adhered to.
 

1. Membership Applications:

 

1. During the registration process, each Member will be advised that the Dispute Resolution Policy is on the Hockey Nova Scotia Website and the Minor Hockey Association website.

 

2. Should any Member cease to be in good standing, in order for the Membership to continue, the Member not in good standing will have to be replaced.  In order to be approved the new/replacement Application must include payment of any outstanding fees, including any costs imposed under paragraph 8(b) of this Policy and and the pro-rata share (number of remaining complete weeks to March 31 divided by 22) for the basic local hockey association and for the new/replacement Application fee, also on a pro-rata basis. Provided these conditions are met the new/replacement Membership Application will automatically be approved and considered an extension of the original Application.  As it relates to revocation or suspension of a Membership, no sanction against any player will be taken until at least 72 hours after notice is provided to a Member that they are not long in Good Standing. This time can allow time for the new/replacement Application to be submitted and processed.

 

3. Associations will incorporate this Dispute Resolution Policy in either their Bylaws or Policies and Practices.

 
 

2. Investigation Procedures:

 
At Association (MHA) Level:
 

1. If, after a Proper Investigation by the Officers of the Association, a Member is found to have engaged in Inappropriate Conduct and thereby failed to comply with the Rules and Regulations of the Association, the Officers of the Association are empowered to:

 

1. issue to the Member a letter of warning, or
2. require the Member to participate in a mediation process (see Appendix A for options), or
3. suspend the Member for up to 30 days, and/or (such suspension has no impact on the membership)

 

4. where the Member has engaged, in particular, inappropriate physical and/or vocal behavior, restrict the Member’s privileges to attend games and/or practices at Association rinks, or team activities.

             

2. The Member may appeal the findings and directives of the Association to HNS in accordance with HNS By-Laws.

 

3. Nothing herein restricts the power of the Association to make a complaint to the police where the inappropriate behavior is deemed to be criminal.

 

4. If a Member fails to comply with the terms of any suspension or restriction imposed under paragraph 5 or, the inappropriate conduct continues, the Association may request Hockey Nova Scotia to review the Member’s status.

 
 
At the Hockey Nova Scotia (HNS) Level:
 

5. HNS agrees to make use of Protection of Property Agreements when/where appropriate.

 

6. Should an Association request a review of a Member’s status or a Member appeals the findings of or sanctions imposed by the Association, Hockey Nova Scotia will attempt to resolve the matter with the Member and the Association through facilitating a meeting through either a mediator, restorative facilitator or the Executive Director of Hockey Nova Scotia.  Hockey Nova Scotia will select the facilitation process and incur any upfront costs.

 

7. Should an Association issue any type of sanction to the Member, which is not authorized under paragraph B.1. of this Policy, including removing the Player from play, the Member(s) may immediately request the Executive Director of Hockey Nova Scotia to remove the sanction and direct the Association to follow the procedures as contained within this Policy.

 

8. Should the process in paragraph B.6. not result in an agreed resolution, Hockey Nova Scotia, through the Executive Director may:

 

1. revoke any sanctions imposed by the Association for reasons, including and not limited to, the ground that a fair process was not followed prior to the Association deeming the Member exhibited Inappropriate Conduct;

 

2. issue a further letter of warning against the Member, including the requirement of the Member to reimburse HNS for all of the costs associated with the efforts of HNS, as referred to in paragraph B.6. above, including the cost of the mediator, etc. to a maximum of $500.  If this administrative fee is not paid by the Member within 14 days, the Membership is suspended and the Member is not a Member in good standing until such time as the administrative fee is paid. 

 

3. declare a full revocation of the Member’s Membership resulting in the membership not being in good standing.  Revocation would be effective 72 hours from the time in which the decision was communicated to the Member at the address (including email address) provided by the Member at the time of registration.

 
 

4. in the case of those having engaged in inappropriate physical and/or vocal behavior issue a Protection of Property Notice resulting in the Member being barred from all rinks used by Hockey Nova Scotia.

 
 

3. Definitions:

 
Membership:  is an approved Application (“Application”) with all of the individuals on the Application being in good standing with the Minor Hockey Association (“Association”).
 
Members: are the individuals listed on the approved membership Application, being in good standing with the Association. These persons include parents, guardians and the player.
 
Good Standing: a Member is in good standing until such time as the membership is
suspended or revoked.
                                   
Inappropriate Conduct: conduct unacceptable to the Association as determined by a
Discipline Committee, including but not limited to, inappropriate physical and/or vocal
abusive behavior or persistent harassment of volunteers within the Association.
 
Hockey Record: the written record of a Dispute Resolution meeting conducted
                                 by Hockey Nova Scotia