Monday, November 4 marks Hockey Alberta’s recognition of Rule 11.4 in the Hockey Canada rulebook for on-ice discrimination AND Maltreatment Awareness Day.
By enforcing Rule 11.4 and recognizing Maltreatment Awareness Day, Hockey Alberta is working to prevent discrimination and ensure respect, fairness, and safety for all involved in the game. These are vital steps toward making hockey a place where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to play.
“When we can acknowledge that there are systemic challenges in our sport involving equity, diversity, and inclusion we can also recognize that it takes significant commitments and movements in positive directions in order for any change to happen,” said Carlia Schwab, Manager of EDI and Safe Sport at Hockey Alberta. “Rule 11. 4 is just one of these commitments. By seeking to prevent, reduce and ultimately remove on-ice discrimination we are taking a step in the right direction.”
Hockey Alberta’s statement on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, which was released in September 2023, shares a commitment to creating safe sporting environments and nurturing a positive hockey culture. Hockey Alberta continues to lay the foundation and provide the tools and resources to succeed, but it is up to every one of our members to make it happen. It starts with those who have the power to enact change, your actions and behaviors contribute to safe sport environments, putting you directly in the path of creating change.
“We know that there is much work to be done, that it is hard work and that it takes the combined commitment of our staff, volunteers, members, and participants to help us progress on this path,” said Schwab.
Hockey Alberta’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee has shared a list of reminders and strategies that you can do to contribute to this positive change and help move us forward.
Players be aware of the language that you use and how it can harm others.
- Find opportunities to learn about those around you, focus on your differences and similarities and how they contribute to a healthy team.
- Impact vs. Intention. Be aware of the impact of your actions. Even though our intentions may be innocent, or we are reacting in the-heat-of-the-moment, our words and behaviors can have a big impact.
- Take the Hockey Alberta Player Pledge to commit to respect, inclusion, and fair play in every game.
Parents and Families, your support is essential in creating a positive, inclusive hockey experience.
- Be a Positive Role Model: Your actions make a difference. Show respect and integrity when interacting with coaches, officials, players, and other parents.
- Stay Informed: Understanding the issues around safe sport helps us all. Take some time to learn about the dynamics of inclusivity and respect in hockey.
- Know Your Association’s Policies: Familiarize yourself with your association’s guidelines so you can support a fair and respectful environment.
- Step In: If you notice bullying, harassment, or harmful behavior, trust your instincts and take action to help. Use “I” statements to express feelings and create dialogue (e.g., “I felt uncomfortable when I saw…”).
- Promote Inclusive Spaces: Speak up about creating welcoming environments that let all players thrive.
- Respect in Sport for Parents: Access Hockey Canada’s Respect in Sport for Parents course to learn tips on how to build positive interactions both on and off the ice.
Coaches, you play a pivotal role in shaping a positive and inclusive environment for your players, both on and off the ice. Here are some essential resources designed to support your efforts.
- Consult the 4 C’s SafeSport Guide to discover effective strategies to create a safe and supportive coaching environment that prioritizes player well-being.
- Enrol in the NCCP online module Anti-Racism in Coaching to enhance your understanding of diversity and inclusion within your coaching practices. Learn how to make a meaningful impact!
- Learn how to build respectful and positive spaces for all players in the Creating a Positive Sport Environment NCCP online module. Help equip yourself with the tools to foster a welcoming atmosphere!
Game Officials, be aware, ensure positive experiences for every player.
- Stay Vigilant: Be aware of all interactions on the ice, as maltreatment can occur at any moment. Your awareness helps create a safer environment for everyone.
- Encourage Open Dialogue: Let players and team personnel know that their concerns about maltreatment are important. Make it clear that you’re there to listen and support them.
- Document Allegations: If an in-game allegation is reported to you, even if you didn’t witness it, be sure to inform the appropriate bench staff. This ensures the incident is properly documented in the Game Incident Report.
- Apply the Rules Fairly: Remember, the playing rules apply to all participants. As officials, it’s your responsibility to enforce these rules consistently, promoting respect and fairness on the ice.
Minor Hockey Association (MHA) Members. As a valued member of Hockey Alberta, we encourage each local Minor Hockey Association and club team to establish clear policies and procedures to address unacceptable conduct within your organization. By fostering a proactive approach, we can work together to create a supportive environment for everyone involved. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Promote a Positive Culture: It’s important for every member to help maintain a safe and respectful atmosphere by preventing harassment and abuse in all aspects of your organization. Together, we can make a difference.
- Encourage Open Communication: If any participant safety concerns arise, we invite you to bring them forward to your local association or club team. This helps ensure that issues are managed appropriately and in line with your established policies and procedures.
- Discussion Resources: Facilitate open conversations with staff and volunteers on creating inclusive environments. Try prompts like, “What does a supportive environment look like to you?”
- Stay Up to Date: Visit the Hockey Alberta Website for resources and updates on EDI initiatives, reporting maltreatment, policy support and more. Update your own MHA website to ensure members have access to the latest information.
We recognize Monday, November 4 as 11.4 Maltreatment Awareness Day, however, every day is a day to prevent, interrupt and respond to discrimination and maltreatment. Thank you for your continued dedication, support and positive interactions.
You can find more information on how Hockey Alberta responds to Maltreatment, Bullying and Harassment by visiting our website.
