Learning the Skills and Having Fun

A Parents Guide to Terrace Minor Hockey

The Terrace Minor Hockey Association Handbook is provided for parents and
players as a source of information about Terrace Minor Hockey Association’s
bylaws, association organization and policies.

The Executive has the right to make a motion for changes to policies and rules
from time to time. This handbook is superseded by any changes made and
approved by the current Executive.

In cases where Terrace Minor Hockey Association does not have a policy for a
specific issue or topic, TMHA will adopt and adhere to BC Hockey policy regarding
such.

Terrace Minor Hockey Association
PO Box 121
Terrace, BC
V8G 4A2

 

Table of Contents

Vision Statement
Constitution and Bylaws
Conflict Resolution
24 Hour Rule
Divisions
Registration Procedures
Risk Management Guidelines
Criminal Record Checks
Abuse and Harassment Policy
House Division Policy
House Division Team Goalie Selection
Atom Development
Rep Team Policy
Locker Room Policy
Player Movement Procedures
Goaltender Assistance Policy
Bus Operations
Travel Guidelines
Tournament Rules and Guidelines
Three Goal Rule / Five Goal Spread
Discipline Reviews
Suspension Guidelines
Three Penalty Rule
Conduct Guidelines
Appeals Procedures
Executive Committee
Contacts

This is a reference book for the parents of TMHA with the most current policies and
procedures that the Executive feels are of high importance and have been working on and changing over the past few seasons.

TMHA has a complete policy and procedure manual that is in dire need of being updated
as some of the policies date back to the 1970s. The task of updating the complete policy
and procedure manual will require a large amount of volunteer hours in order to sort
through the last 20 years of meetings/minutes. If any person is interested in committing to
this job, please bring your name forward to a current Executive member.

Terrace Minor Hockey Association Vision Statement

Your Executive will strive to provide effective administration of TMHA based upon a solid
foundation of bylaws and policies and an emphasis upon communication amongst our
members. We will promote effective skill development programs. We will ensure that our
House League program is recognized as our foundation and that the House League
provides all players an opportunity to develop their skills and have fun. We will assist our Rep League teams to be competitive, to be fairly represented in Association decisions and ensure that Rep teams represent the philosophy of Terrace Minor Hockey.

TMHA will provide the best opportunities possible to minor hockey players to compete in their own age group in an organization designed to teach all players the fundamentals of hockey so that they can play to the best of their abilities. Our coaching will develop individual and team skills. All players, coaches, officials, Executive and parents will emphasize that hockey provides players a team game to compete in for fun and to achieve good sportsmanship and character development.

The backbone of Terrace Minor Hockey is our core of volunteers and those that
devote their time to developing our children. The Association will give these volunteers our strong support in all their endeavours and in return we expect that our players and volunteers will adhere to the Constitution, bylaws and policies of the Terrace Minor Hockey Association, British Columbia Amateur Hockey and the Canadian Hockey
Association.

 

Terrace Minor Hockey Association Constitution and Bylaws

The Terrace Minor Hockey Association Constitution and Bylaws can be found Terrace Minor Hockey Association Constitution
The current TMHA Executive acknowledges that the TMHA Constitution and Bylaws are
outdated and need revisions however, they are legal documents and as stated in the
Constitution, they can not be changed unless a Special Resolution to amend and/or alter
the Constitution and/or Bylaws of Terrace Minor Hockey Association is made at an Annual
General Meeting. With this, the Constitution and Bylaws of the Association shall not be
altered except by Special Resolution passed by 75% of the members entitled to vote as
are present in person at an Annual General Meeting.

 

Conflict Resolution

All parents are encouraged to attend general meetings and bring their issues or concerns
for discussion.

Throughout the season, your concerns should be directed to the appropriate volunteers
who are able to reach a resolution. Remember, these individuals are volunteers, so be
respectful in the manner in which you address them as well as mindful of when and where
you approach them.

The key individuals to communicate with are:

• your child’s Coach. If you are unable to reach a resolution or you feel that you are
unable to discuss the matter with the Coach, then
• the Division Head for House teams or Manager for Rep teams.
If further action is needed, address the issue to the appropriate Vice President; for House
teams, the 1st Vice and for Rep teams, the 2nd Vice. The President will only become
directly involved if all others have been unable to resolve the issue.

Any concerns or complaints that are submitted to the Executive must be signed. These
complaints are taken seriously and will remain confidential. Email is not the recommended
method of communication when submitting complaints as they can be inadvertently sent
to the wrong person outside of the Executive, which could result in breaking confidentiality
for what are often sensitive issues.

 

24 Hour Rule

If you have an issue regarding an incident, it is with due respect that we ask all
parents/guardians to use the 24 hour rule before attempting to engage in conversation
with the coaching staff or volunteer. This allotted time frame allows all parties involved to
gather their thoughts allowing cooler heads to prevail therefore not turning a potential
disagreement into something more than a differing point of view.

 

Divisions

U7 - (Initiation) ages 5 & 6
U9 - (Novice) ages 7 & 8
U11 - (Atom) ages 9 & 10
U13 - (Peewee) ages 11 & 12
U15 - (Bantam) ages 13 & 14
U18 - (Midget) ages 15, 16 & 17
Female only U11/U13 (Atom/Peewee) & U15/U18 (Bantam/Midget)

*age as of December 31st of the current playing season

Rep teams are made in the Peewee, Bantam and Midget divisions. Rep players do not
play in House divisions once on a Rep team unless they are an affiliate. Travel teams may
be made in these divisions as well, at the discretion of the Executive committee.

 

Registration

Terrace Minor Hockey Association will adhere to BC Hockey Regulation 2: Registration,
subsections 2.01 to 2.05 regarding registration, residential qualifications and residential
waivers.

The residence of a player’s parent or legal guardian shall be used to determine the Minor
Hockey Association with which the player registers based on geographic subdivisions set
out by BC Hockey.

A residential waiver may only be issued by a member Minor Hockey Association to an
adjacent Association in accordance with the BC Hockey residential policy. A residential
waiver may only be granted under one of the following circumstances:

• there is no Tier 1, 2, 3 or 4 team in the player’s residential Minor Hockey Association;
• there is no recreational team or the player is on a wait-list within the player’s
residential Minor Hockey Association; or
• the player is female and there is no female team in the player’s residential Minor
Hockey Association.

In order to reduce printing, mailing and administration costs as well as eliminate countless
hours of volunteer work, all registration is now done online at Register

In April, following the end of the season, previously registered players will receive a notice
regarding early online registration. The amount of this rate and deadline for early
registration will be stated in the notice as well as on our website.

Players moving to Terrace from another Association during the season will be accepted
for registration only if space is available and depending on the date, may receive a
prorated registration rate.

4-year olds will only be considered for registration if they are already able to skate and will
be turning 5 before the end of the season (March 31). The Executive will review these
requests. Decisions will be made by the Executive on a case-by-case basis. Any 4-year old players wishing to register will be placed on a U7 wait list and will be
placed on a team only if space is available in that division.

Late Payment of Registration Fees

Player registration fees are to be paid in full prior to the start of the season or if applicable,
prior to the pre-season. No player with unpaid fees will be permitted on the ice unless they
have made prior arrangements with the Treasurer.

Registration and Wait List Policies

TMHA must address the numbers of youth wanting to play hockey and how these players
can be accommodated. Due to limited ice time available to Terrace Minor Hockey, each
year the Executive reviews the registrations and makes decisions concerning the number
of teams in each division and the size of these teams.

If needed, the registration in each division is then capped and players registering later
than the early registration deadline are placed on wait lists. The Executive reviews the
wait lists and makes every attempt to provide space for these players. Unfortunately, in
past seasons, some players could not be accommodated.

 

Refunds

In the event that a refund of registration is requested, refunds will be issued as follows:

Prior to start of the pre-season - full refund of registration fee

Up to October 31st - full refund of registration fee less BC Hockey/Hockey Canada

fee After October 31st - ½ registration fee less BC Hockey/Hockey Canada fee

No refund after December 10

 

Risk Management Guidelines

Terrace Minor Hockey will ensure that an active and appropriate Risk Management
Program will be implemented for all minor hockey activities. The Association’s Risk
Manager will be a Director and will assess and recommend risk management procedures
so as to minimize the risk of injury to our players, officials and volunteers during on-ice
and off-ice minor hockey activities.

Basic Risk Management

• All players will be registered before participating in on-ice activities to ensure injury
and liability insurance coverage.
• Division Heads, coaches and parents will ensure that all players will play with the
required equipment, properly fitted and in safe condition. Players with improper fitting
equipment will not be allowed on the ice.

Injury Management

• All Coaches and Assistants must wear a helmet while on the ice with players.
• All teams are required to have an HCSP certified trainer (formerly Hockey Trainers
Safety Program). This rule may be modified by either the BCAHA or the CHA from
year to year.
• All Rep team Managers will maintain medical information for each player, including
Care Card number, family doctor’s name and phone number, a family emergency
contact and relevant medical information. Team officials will ensure that players with
special medical conditions are monitored accordingly.
• Good injury prevention requires that all players complete pre-ice stretching before
play.
• Injured players returning after a serious injury will only be allowed to play with a
doctor’s consent and may be requested to provide written confirmation by the Coach
or Division Head.
• A body-checking instructional clinic with both an on-ice and off-ice component will be
provided to 1st year U13(PeeWee) players. This clinic is MANDATORY.
• First Aid Kits will be provided to each team as well as maintained in the arena. The
Equipment Manager is responsible for replenishing first aid supplies.

Criminal Record Checks

In accordance with BCAHA Harassment and Sexual Abuse Policies, TMHA requires all
volunteers, Coaches, Managers, Referees and Executive members over the age of 18 to
agree to a criminal record check by the RCMP. All adult participants will complete a
Criminal Record Search Authorization Form in order that they may be considered as a
candidate for membership in the Terrace Minor Hockey Association. TMHA has the right
to remove a volunteer form their position if they have not completed their criminal record
check by December 31st of the current season (October 2008 motion). If there are any,
the RCMP processing fees for these checks are paid by TMHA. The completed record
checks are kept strictly confidential and are reviewed only by the Risk Manager or if an
issue arises, with the appropriate Vice President. The frequency of the criminal record
check procedure will be determined by the Executive and in accordance with BCAHA.

 

Abuse and Harassment Policy

Why do we have this policy?

• The Canadian Hockey Association, BC Amateur Hockey Association and Terrace
Minor Hockey Association have adopted principles and practices regarding
harassment and abuse in minor hockey. The guiding concern behind these principles
is the protection of our athletes from all forms of harassment and abuse and to protect
the integrity of our volunteers.

Definition of harassment:

• Harassment is defined as any behaviour including comments, conduct, gestures,
written documents or electronic/social media which are insulting, hurtful, humiliating,
malicious, degrading or offensive to an individual or which create and uncomfortable
environment. Most often, harassment occurs from peer group to peer group, usually
player to player, but it can also occur from parent to volunteer, coach to official or adult
to adult.

Examples of harassment include:

• Verbal abuse, physical assault, racial slurs, unwelcome taunting, sexual jokes, racist
graffiti, religious comments, physical or verbal intimidation and threats, hazing or
initiation rites, obscene gestures, practical jokes and vandalism.

Definition of abuse:

• Abuse is any form of physical, emotional and/or sexual mistreatment or lack of care,
which causes physical or emotional damage to a child. A common characteristic of all
forms of abuse against children and youth is an abuse of power or authority and/or a
breach of trust.
• Harassment and abuse include a wide range of behaviours and actions, from those
that are minor (eg. inappropriate jokes) to those that are very serious (eg. Repeated
harassing actions or any form of physical or sexual assault). Clearly, minor and major
instances of harassment must be dealt with differently.

How to handle complaints:

• Minor complaints should be dealt with quickly and with common sense. The person in
authority must make it clear that the behaviour is unacceptable and must deal with it
promptly and informally. Guidance for handling any minor complaint or incident may be
obtained from the Risk Manager.
• More serious complaints need to be handled strictly according to BCAHA guidelines
and provincial child protection laws. Copies of the guidelines are available from the
BCAHA or your local Executive. It is important that the Association respond in a
sensitive and timely manner to all major allegations. Provincial child protection
legislation is very clear that anyone who is suspicious or has reasonable grounds to
suspect that a child may be suffering or may have suffered from emotional or physical
abuse or neglect and/or sexual abuse has a mandatory duty to report the abuse or
neglect to the local child protection agency.

Who makes the report?

• The person who hears the disclosure or suspects the abuse must make the report.
TMHA will support its members is fulfilling their obligations under this requirement. It is
critical that the people reporting the disclosure or who suspect the abuse do not
attempt to interview the child or to “solve” the problem themselves.
• Reluctance to report due to a concern about making a false allegation of abuse or
neglect is certainly warranted. People’s lives, careers or reputations can be irreversibly
affected by false accusations of abuse. At the same time, many children
have continued to suffer because their disclosures have not been believed or have not
produced enough evidence to substantiate their experiences. The safety of both the
affected youth and other youth that the Association serves must be the primary
concern.

What steps does TMHA take?

• Criminal record checks for all volunteers within the Association are an integral part of
preventing abuse. TMHA will require these checks to be completed on a regular basis.
Based on BCAHA guidelines, the frequency of these checks will be determined by the
Executive. The Association will pay any costs incurred to complete these checks as a
result of this policy. The Risk Manager is responsible for reviewing and retaining the
completed criminal record searches. If there are any potential problems noted, the
Risk Manager may discuss a particular search only with the RCMP, the appropriate
Vice President and/or the affected applicant. Every attempt to ensure the
confidentiality of all applicants must be taken.
• TMHA supports the ongoing training and education of its volunteers. The Respect In
Sport course (formerly Speak Out) is offered to all Associations by BC Hockey. It is
currently mandated that all volunteers working with the players in any capacity take
this online course. The course provides a clear and logical policy and procedure for
handling cases of both abuse and harassment. All active volunteers must finish
Respect In Sport by October 31st of the given season. This course is valid for 4 years,
then must be renewed.

House Division Policy

Every attempt will be made to ensure that all House teams in a division are balanced.
During the allotted preseason ice, the TMHA Head Coach along with predetermined
evaluators will evaluate and rank players based on skills specified by the TMHA Head
Coach. This information is confidential and will only be used during the team selection
process.
Teams are then drafted based on these player evaluations by a Committee consisting of
the 1st Vice, TMHA Head Coach, Division Head and the Head Coach of each team in that
division (if the Head Coach is unavailable, a designated Assistant Coach may stand in).

All players will be divided into the appropriate number of teams to create teams with equal
amounts of skill levels.
Example:
Team 1    Team 2      Team 3     Team 4
player 1    player 2     player 3    player 4
player 8    player 7     player 6    player 5
player 9    player 10   player 11   and so forth

The team Head Coaches will be selected or designated prior to the season start.
The Head Coach will coach the team that his or her child is placed on.
Assistant Coaches remain on the team that their child is placed on. Every attempt will be
made to ensure that Assistants are spread evenly between the teams. This may create
some player movement. Any movement will be based on player rankings to ensure
teams remain balanced.

Player movement will not occur to accommodate a Coach or Assistant Coach’s personal
request.

Only with a valid written request from a parent to a Division Head or 1st Vice President,
will players be moved to specific teams (the Committee will decide on the validity of the
request).

A draw will be held for both jersey selection and tournament selection.

House Division Team Goalie Selection

Goalies are added to U13 (Peewee), U15 (Bantam) and U18 (Midget) House teams after the House teams
are finalized but only after the Rep teams have chosen their Goalies.
The Atom division does not have a Rep team and therefore Goalie selection can occur
immediately after the House teams are drafted.

Goalie placement is not applicable to U7 (Initiation) and U9 (Novice) divisions as every child is entitled
to and encouraged to take a turn at being Goalie.
Each House team in U11 (Atom) through U18 (Midget) divisions will be given up to two Goalies. The Goalies can either split or alternate games. If they decide to alternate games, the other
Goalie may choose to play out. If there are more than two Goalies per team in one division
wanting to play, we will give the Goalies the option of moving up a division, if there is room
for them, or playing out. If they are not willing to make this choice, a decision will be made
by “age preference”. In U15 (Bantam) and lower divisions, preference will be given to second
year Goalies. In U18 (Midget), preference will be given to third year Goalies first, second year
Goalies next, followed by the first year Goalies.

 

U11 (Atom) DEVELOPMENT POLICY (Updated June 2021)

The TMHA U11 Development Policy was developed in accordance with the BC Hockey U11
Pathways Program and North West District (NWD) Policies.

TMHA has implemented a program for U11 age players that will challenge and stimulate players
that have a higher caliber of skills and desire to eventually play a more competitive level of hockey.
This program will not begin until all U11 House players have been placed on a House team and the
regular season has begun.

U11 Development schedule will not interfere with practices, regular season scheduled games or
tournaments. The players home MHA must approve their player for any activity with the U11 Development team.

The U11 Development team (although not a Representative team) will adhere to Representative
Team policies set in place by TMHA, with variations noted below.

PROPOSAL PROCESS

All U11 Development teams must be approved by the NWD prior to the season starting. Minor
Hockey Associations need to submit a cover letter on MHA letterhead signed by the President with
an attached application or proposal for the team, or signed letter that includes the application or
proposal.

The application or proposal should provide the following:

 Follow the U11 Pathways programming as outlined by BC Hockey and Hockey Canada.
 Meet NWD U11 Development Policy.
 Identify the three tournaments the team will be attending.
 The type of team being considered, try-out schedule, and how the team will be
managed/function. (See Tournament team under sec 7.13 BC Hockey policies or Hockey
Canada Registry team).

The U11 Development team will submit their schedule to the NWD by 1 October of the season.
This would include tournaments only. All Development teams will adhere to the three (3)
tournaments per season policy. Exceptional circumstances may allow the team to play an extra
tournament in the spring, with approval of the NWD and BC Hockey

TRYOUTS

There is to be a minimum of four practices and/or skill sessions prior to formal player evaluation/
selection/tryouts. Player evaluation/selection/tryouts must be a minimum of three formal sessions.
Recommendation is one skills session, one small-area games session and one game. During the
evaluation and team selection process, this ice time will be considered skills development ice and
will be open to any, and all players in the U11 Division.

A minimum of 17 players (to a maximum of 19) will be chosen to form the U11 Development team.
The final number of players selected for the team will be at the discretion of the U11 Development
team Head Coach. The U11 Development team will fall under the responsibility of the 2nd Vice
President.

The team will be chosen as follows:

 The first 10 U11 Development players, which includes 1 top ranked goalie, will be given to
the U11 Development Coach based on the “House” team evaluation system used to rank
all players in the U11 Division during the preseason ice.
 The U11 Development Coach will then hold a minimum of 3 skills development practices
during the regularly scheduled U11 Development practice ice times for any U11 child to
participate in. During these practices, players will be evaluated on basic skills, team skills,
drills and scrimmages, as well as attitude, coachability and willingness to take instruction
and direction.
 During these practices the Coach and coaching staff will evaluate and rank the players
using the HCA evaluation system (ranking skill on a scale between 1 (being the lowest) and
5 (being the highest).
 The Coach and coaching staff will then choose a minimum of 7 more players to complete
the U11 Development team based on these evaluations as well as using input received
from the Atom House Coaches.
 The U11 Development team may be comprised of any amount of 1st and/or 2nd year
players.

GOALTENDERS

Full‐time goaltenders are permitted, but goaltenders will rotate for equal amount of playing time.
The one(s) not playing in net are to play as players for that game. Goaltenders will alternate games
or split games as close to 50/50 as possible. Each goaltender plays the final game in an equal
number of tournaments. The rotation schedule should be done in consultation with the goaltender
and parents. (share games or alternate playing full games).

ICE ALLOCATION

TMHA will supply one “early” morning practice time per week for the U11 Development Program. In
addition to providing one early morning ice time for the Atom Development team development,
TMHA will pay one out-of-town tournament entrance fee for this team.
Throughout the season, the team may purchase additional ice time for practice, but must inform
the 2nd Vice President of their intent to do so prior to booking. Any additional ice for games or
practices, travel costs, etc. are solely the responsibility of the team.

TEAM FINANCIALS

U11 Development must observe TMHA policies with respect to sponsorship, fundraising and
finance practices. It is the expectation of all teams and specifically all team staff, that every effort
shall be made to act in a fiscally responsible manner. Unnecessary expenses should be avoided.

Team Budget

Coaches that are assigned to a team must submit to the 2nd Vice President a season budget prior
to November 1st. This will include tournaments, travel, meals, accommodations, clothing and/or
apparel.

The team budget will be drafted during the pre-season based on the three tournaments that U11
Development plans to attend, and any other reasonable expenditures. The drafted budget shall be
distributed to the parent group within the first week of the team being finalized. Parents are to be
provided seven (7) days minimum, to review the budget and discuss it with their peers prior to
approving it. The principle of 75% in favor of the motion will apply when parents vote. Parents will
be provided one vote per player.

Please see TMHA Policies regarding Team Bank Accounts and Team Funds.

FUNDRAISING

The U11 Development team is not permitted to fundraise prior to December 31st of the current
season (with the exception of the Christmas break tournament). Special consideration may be
given to seasonal fundraising ideas, but the team must justify in writing the need for additional
funds. All fundraisers must be approved by the TMHA Executive Board prior to any activities taking
place. Failure to do so could lead to the forfeit of any funds raised for that particular event.
U11 Development may only fundraise to a maximum of 75% of their approved annual budget.

PROGRAM GUIDELINES - REPRESENTATIVE LEAGUE – (Updated June 2021)

All TMHA Representative teams fall under the North West District (NWD) rules and regulations
regardless of if they play in the NWD League or do not have a League to play in.
Under BC Hockey (BCH) and Hockey Canada (HC), each Minor Hockey Association (MHA) can
implement their own program for Rep Team selection. Throughout the years, TMHA has used
several different processes for selecting Rep Teams, with each one trying to place the highest
importance on the selection of teams being fair and impartial. Beginning in the 2021-22 season,
TMHA is implementing a Rep Policy as outlined below.

It is TMHA’s intention, by way of this policy, to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding with
regards to the Rep Team selection process, while maintaining our goal of keeping the process fair
and impartial.

The major difference between House and Rep Teams, is that House players are assigned to a
team and a coach, while Rep players are selected for the team through a tryout process. These
selections are based on their skill level, coachability, attitude and work ethic.
Through this selection process, not everyone that participates will always be selected for the team
they try out for. Undoubtedly, the Selection Committee will have some very difficult decisions to
make in their selection of players. TMHA feels that parents and players are far better off knowing
the possibilities, and procedures heading into this process.

In the event of illness, injury or other unique circumstances, consideration may be given to a player
who was unable to attend all of the tryout sessions. This request must be approved by the 2nd Vice
President prior to the player attending any further tryouts or practice sessions.
This policy is intended to ensure that each Rep player plays at a level compatible with his or her
skill, ability, attitude, desire and experience level for his or her age group.
Players need to be used effectively in games and practices, so that they may receive sufficient
playing opportunity. There is very little benefit from carding marginal players who will see limited
ice time.

PHILOSOPHY, VALUES & EXPECTATIONS

The philosophy of the TMHA Representative (Rep) League is to establish and maintain
Representative teams’ opportunities of higher level and sustained competition for those players
demonstrating above average levels of skill, ability and attitude.

To support the philosophy of the TMHA Rep League, TMHA will strive to meet the following
standards annually:

 Provide a fair process of evaluations that results in the highest skilled players being
assigned to the respective Rep team.
 Provide a system that promotes the best in skill development in an environment that is safe,
fun and positive.
 In conjunction with specific skill development, coaches will assist each player with personal
development by creating an awareness of and instilling a respect for the following core
values:

- Commitment and dedication – always put forth your best effort and continue to improve.

- Understand that attendance and effort are vital to the growth and development of
yourself and your team.

- Sportsmanship – always show respect for everyone involved in the sport– your team,
your coaches, the officials, the opponents and the spectators. Complete each game
and training session with dignity and class.
- All participants are required to set a high standard of conduct and good sportsmanship.

o All participants must agree to follow the specific codes of conduct and abide by
the rules and conditions set out in this policy.
o Always show respect and have a high standard or conduct outside of the game,
within your school, your community and those communities you may visit.

- Teamwork – realize that you are one member of a full team whose success relies on
each member of that team contributing to their fullest potential.

- All participants are expected to put in the extra time required for training, practicing and
playing games, as outlined by the coach. There are additional expenses for travel,
tournaments, extra practice and training time/resources, team clothing and other
miscellaneous expenses, such as dress clothing to meet the dress code, and
equipment replacements when items are broken or worn out. Consideration must be
given to the extra expenses when making the commitment to play on a Rep team.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

Jurisdiction, League Boundaries and Division Supervision.
All Rep teams fall under the jurisdiction of TMHA and will follow Policy as set out by the TMHA
Executive.

Rep teams will play League games in the North West District Minor Hockey Association
(NWDMHA) and as such are committed to the rules of that Association. The boundaries of the
NWDMHA are defined by BC Hockey, as determined by the BC Hockey Executive Committee.

The Representative Supervisor (TMHA 2nd Vice President) will coordinate with the coaches and
managers regarding the affairs of the Rep teams.

PROGRAM GUIDELINES - REPRESENTATIVE LEAGUE

Tier 3 teams will play scheduled games in the NWDMHA League.
Player Registration and Fees for Representative (Rep) League:
Any player wishing to try out for Rep hockey must do so according to year of birth.
Registration and tryout fees will be required to be paid in full prior to fall Rep tryouts. Rep tryout
fees must be paid no later than 24 hours in advance of advertised evaluation of tryout dates.
Representative tryout fees are $50. These fees are payable regardless of when the player is added
to a roster. Representative tryout fees are collected to cover the costs of ice and referees.
Monthly assessment fees to cover the team’s operating costs are determined by individual team
season budgets. Dues are payable to the team at the discretion of the coach and/or team
treasurer.

Refund Policy – Representative Fees

Representative tryout fees will be refunded if the Registrar is notified of the player's intention/ability
to not participate in the tryout sessions at least 24 hours in advance of the first scheduled ice
session for that player.

Player Eligibility Requirements for TMHA Representative (Rep) League

All players trying out for TMHA Representative (Rep) League must meet the established residential
and registration requirements for the Association prior to participating in any of the tryout sessions.

TEAM STAFF COMPLEMENT

Each Representative team shall fill a minimum of three (3) of the following carded positions with
the team:

i. Head Coach - mandatory
ii. Maximum 1 Team Manager - mandatory
iii. 1 Hockey Canada Safety Person (HCSP) – mandatory

The Head Coach is selected by the TMHA Coach Selection Committee. Coach Development 1,
Coach Respect in Sport, CATT online and a valid criminal records check need to be completed
prior to being accepted. The Head Coach will nominate the remainder of team staff to be approved
by the Coach Selection Committee. The Coach Selection Committee has the authority to deny any
nomination of staff with sound and justifiable reasoning.

Reasons for coach selection or denial may be provided if requested, however the Coach Selection
Committee’s decisions are final.
All Criminal Record Checks must be received prior to the teams first game.

Head Coach Selection and Coach Development

The selection of the Head Coach must be a formalized process that is transparent and unbiased
and takes into consideration all available information to ensure that the best candidate is selected.
Coaches are selected based on their ability and willingness to handle the multitude of
responsibilities that come with coaching young athletes and should have the following attributes:

 Availability for the time commitments
 A strong interest and commitment to child athlete development
 A strong hockey background in playing, coaching and/or evaluating – this shall include
reference to any previous coaching evaluations/observations in TMHA
 The ability to communicate on-ice and off-ice requirements to players and parent/guardians
 The ability to work with fellow coaching personnel and TMHA representatives
 Necessary certifications as determined by Hockey Canada and BC Hockey – completed by
predetermined deadline dates.

Individuals accepting coaching positions will do so knowing that they become the most significant
individual to the team. Through leadership, the coach establishes a model that players will use to
develop a significant portion of their attitude towards the game, and, to some degree, their attitude
towards different aspects of personal life. This is especially important for minor hockey players in
their formative years. As such, coaches are encouraged to examine their coaching philosophy.
Their philosophy should include:

 Attitude toward winning and losing,
 Attitude toward player development vs team victory,
 The responsibilities beyond fielding a winning team,
 Balancing team obligations with other facets of life,
 Discipline and player supervision,
 Leadership qualities

These are significant elements when charged with the responsibility of developing players.

Coach Selection Committee

The 2nd Vice President will form a Representative Coach Selection Committee. This committee
must include the President, or designate(s), to ensure fairness in the screening, interview and final
selection of candidates.

This committee should consist of a minimum of three (3) to a maximum of five (5) people and
include those individuals directly involved with the coaches as well as neutral or impartial
individuals so as to avoid matters of conflict of interest. Every effort shall be made to make sure all
committee members are available, to participate in all coach interviews to ensure consistency in
selection standards.

Coach Selection Process

Applicants that apply for a Division will submit an updated coach resume.
TMHA Coach Selection Committee may appoint coaches to selected teams based on interview
and application information when all interviews are completed for a division. As part of screening for
interviews past post season reports will be weighed in conjunction with application and may
disqualify applicant from proceeding in interview process.

The Representative team head coach selection process is comprised of two stages ;

Stage 1: Application – TMHA will post an expression of interest for the position of Representative
team head coach the first week of July. The expression of interest will have a deadline and will be
posted on the TMHA website and Facebook page. All interested parties or individuals will submit
an updated coaching resume including all coach certifications.

Stage 2: Interview – Interviews will be held. Selected applicants will be provided an interview with
the Coach Selection Committee.

The Coach Selection Committee will be responsible for screening the applicants. If there are no
applicants clearly identified for a Division or Tier TMHA will repost the vacant positions.

The 2nd Vice President will be responsible for setting up interview dates and times with the
accepted applicants. The Representative Supervisor will determine the questions to be asked
during the interview. Interviews will be conducted by the independent Committee. Each interview
will be as follows:

 Each candidate will be asked the same questions in the same order during the interviews.
 Priority may be given to coaching experience, coaching philosophy, approach to teaching
and
instruction, planned communication with players and parents, previous coach evaluation
information and any other information considered necessary.
 Reference checks will be completed on the suitable candidates.
 The independent committee will rank the selected candidates in order of preference, all
applicants will remain confidential.
 Coaches that are assigned to a team are to complete their pre-season planning with the 2nd
Vice President’s assistance, as required. They are not to prematurely involve other team
staff in the pre-season planning process as this may be perceived as bias in the player
evaluation process.
 The 2nd Vice President will contact unassigned candidates with their status, approved or
not.

In the event that there is only one applicant for a team the interview process may be waived if the
candidate is deemed to be a suitable by the Coach Selection Committee. If the applicant is
deemed not suitable for the position, the recruitment process will continue until such time as a
suitable candidate can be appointed.

Final Head Coach Selection

Final selection of head coaches will be completed by the Coach Selection Committee. Their
decisions will be final with no appeal process. If the selected coach is unable to complete their
coaching duties, an alternate applicant (if available) will be offered the position.

Qualifications

All team staff must be “Coach/Volunteer Respect-in-Sports” certified and complete the CATT
online certification.

In accordance with BC Hockey Regulation 2.25, all BCH/HC carded Assistant Coaches must be
qualified with Development Level 1 (Dev 1) by December 1st of the current season. Only carded
staff with Dev 1 and/or approved “Associate Members” are permitted on the ice with carded teams.
Proof of registration into the necessary courses will serve as certification until such time as the
course that was registered for is completed.

Team officials carded as a Safety person must be HCSP certified. They must be listed on the
game sheet to go on the bench or to attend to a player on the ice. If an HCSP person is not listed
on the game sheet they must not be on the bench.

All team Managers fall under the authority of the 2nd Vice President. Only carded team staff are
permitted on the bench with carded Rep teams during games and practices. Non-carded personnel
are not permitted on the bench during games.

Teams will not be permitted to travel and may not be carded until appropriate team personnel
certifications are in place.

On-ice assistants, paid or not, who are not otherwise members of TMHA must apply to BC Hockey
for “Associate Membership” and must be certified as with Respect In Sport for Activity Leaders if
16 years of age or older.

Further information about “Associate Membership” is available at bchockey.net

Coaches are reminded that involvement in the minor hockey system includes the development of
referees. Failure to control the bench and/or abuse of officials is not conducive to developing and
retaining quality referees.

Conduct by any member of a team which is detrimental to the development of officials may be
subject to discipline.

Pre-season tasks:

Approved Head Coaches must complete pre-season tasks by the designated deadlines to continue
to be considered.

Task 1 – Prepare team development plan prior to commencement of tryouts.
Task 2 – Coaches that are assigned to a team must submit to the 2nd Vice President a season
budget. (due prior to their first game) This will include tournaments, travel, meals,
accommodations, clothing and/or apparel.

TEAM STAFF POSITIONS AND DUTIES

Once appointed to the position, the Head Coach will determine who s/he will nominate as
supporting staff. Every Representative team must have one Manager and an HCSP on the team.
The Head Coach may assign up to two additional staff members in the role of Assistant Coach.

Once selected, the Head Coach will provide the names of their nominated staff to the 2nd Vice
President for final approval by the Coach Selection Committee.

Supporting staff shall not assume their roles until they are approved by the Representative
Supervisor. As such, the Manager shall not be a relative (spouse, sibling, parent, etc.) of the Head
Coach.

Every team must have a Treasurer. It is important that a team Treasurer is selected shortly after
the Manager is selected so that the team bank account can be opened and used for team financial
transactions as quickly as possible. As such, it is preferred that the Treasurer shall not be a relative
(spouse, sibling, parent, etc.) of the Head Coach, Assistant Coach or Team Manager.

Neither the Team Manager nor the HCSP may participate as an Assistant Coach unless they have
the appropriate coaching qualifications

Representative Team Head Coach

The following are the specific duties of the Representative Team Head Coach.

 Report to the TMHA Representative Supervisor.

 Be familiar with HC, BCH, NWDMHA and TMHA rules, regulations, policies and
procedures.
 Follow the Coach Code of Conduct https://www.bchockey.net/Files/CODE%20OF%20CONDUCT%20POLICY%20FORM%2009-27-2017.pdf

 Be familiar with risk management issues as they relate to player injury.

 Serve as an official spokesperson on behalf of the team.

 Prepare a season plan/schedule and operating budget.

 Select and recommend staff to Representative Supervisor for the positions of Team
Manager, HCSP (trainer), Treasurer and possibly up to two additional assistant coaches.

 Determine final roster for season to a minimum of 17 players (if possible) to a maximum of
19 (not including APs).

 Organize team and parent meeting to establish introductions and explain coaching
philosophy,
season expectations and team rules.

 Coordinate the delegation of responsibilities to the Assistant Coach(s), Team Manager
and/or
Treasurer.

 Provide a list of team players, and jersey numbers to Team Manager.

 Select Affiliate players for season by November 1st; ensure all affiliation procedures and
rules are followed.

 Be available to parents/guardians to discuss any of their concerns or observations for the
team.

 Coordinate the implementation of the on-ice curriculum. Design the practice plans in
consultation with the Assistant Coaches.

 Coach all games and practices.

 Plan, implement, and control pre-game preparation and communication with the team.

 Communicate written and signed, rules and responsibilities to players and parent/guardians as
applicable.

 Ensure dressing rooms, hotel rooms and buses are left in order following each event.

 Plan on-ice and off-ice team activities in consultation with the Assistant Coach(s) and
Manager.

 Continue to develop knowledge and training in fundamental skills, teaching techniques and
the strategies and tactics of hockey.

Team Manager

The team manager is responsible for the completion of team administrative duties. They are
responsible for keeping the parent group informed of the team activities and organizing the plans
as created by the Head Coach. They deal with team staff, players, parent/guardians, TMHA
Representatives and other Team Managers. They are expected to recognize that all volunteers
must be treated with an appropriate level of respect.

The following are specific duties of the Team Manager:

 Act on direction of and report directly to the Head Coach for all matters pertaining to the
team.

 Will organize and facilitate the team schedules and travel arrangements for tournaments
and travel games (League or exhibition), and fundraising events, and prepare itineraries for
players and parent/guardians.

 Report to Representative Supervisor for all matters pertaining to the Association; shall
communicate disputes or unresolved issues to the Representative Supervisor.

 Follow the Coach Code of Conduct.

 Prepare team roster and submit to Representative Supervisor and Registrar; circulate to
parent/guardians.

 Coordinate the production of a team schedule with the coaching staff.

 Facilitate communications between coaching staff and parent/guardians. This may include
setting up and attending meetings between coaches and parents.
 Organize team meetings and work with team parent/guardians in coordinating events.

 Obtain necessary approval from TMHA and NWD with respect to travel and special events.

 Arrange for game security (timekeepers and score keepers). Ensure all are trained in
proper completion of score sheets and operations of scoring equipment.

 Ensure Referee Assignor is informed if a game is cancelled or changed.

 Secure team dressing room and check for belongings left behind after team has left.

 Coordinate team financial matters including player fees.

 Ensure receipts and invoices are provided to treasurer in timely manner and ensure the
treasurer submits financial statements as per TMHA policy.

 Coordinate travel, accommodation, meals and facility rental for the team.

 Coordinate and oversee fundraising activities.

 Coordinate all pre- and post-game paperwork and distribute to appropriate authorities

 Assist with on or off ice development and/or discipline.

HCSP (Hockey Canada Safety Person)

Each team must have one designated person that has completed the HCSP training course.
Specific responsibilities are identified in the course. These include maintaining player medical
information and identifying and maintaining emergency procedures and contacts for the team. The
HCSP must have current certification. The minimum age requirement for the HCSP is 19 years of
age.

TMHA would like to emphasize that the HCSP must complete and submit injury reports for all
injuries, and submit return-to-play approvals, as necessary. In addition to the individual injury
reports, the HCSP must complete a running injury log for the team.

Assistant Coach

The following are specific duties of the Assistant Coach

 Reports to the Head Coach.

 Follow the Coach Code of Conduct.

 Act on behalf of Head Coach in their absence.

 Assist with planning, organizing and conducting practices.

 Assist with pre-game preparation.

 Assist with the operation of the team during the game.

 Assist with the supervision of players, both on and off the ice.

 Ensure dressing rooms, hotel rooms and buses are left in order following each event.

Team Treasurer

The team Treasurer is responsible for the preparation of and compliance with an operating budget
for the team, the accounting of all team funds, collections and deposits, payment of all bills and
submission of monthly statements to TMHA and team parents.
Financial statements will be provided to the Representative Supervisor on a monthly basis (by the
10th of the month) and all yearend financial records must be submitted to no later than May 1st.
Parent/guardians must be provided with monthly financial statements on a regular basis (by the
10th of the month).

Other Team Positions

In addition to the aforementioned positions, it is recommended that the following positions be filled:

 Jersey designate to collect and maintain jerseys after team functions; representative
jerseys are not to be taken home by players to be cared for by the players.

 Fundraising Representatives – coordinate and oversee fundraising events; obtain
necessary special event sanctioning from TMHA.

 Food committee – plan and arrange meal schedules during team travel.

PLAYER SELECTION AND TEAM FORMATION

Tryouts

Prior to attending Rep tryouts, players must be fully registered in TMHA (residential
transfers/waivers must be approved by BC Hockey) and their tryout fee must be paid in full.
TMHA will follow the Representative Tryout Procedure Guideline, which also forms part of the
TMHA Policy.

TMHA will form an Evaluators Coordinating Committee, which will include the TMHA Head Coach,
2nd Vice President and President. This Committee shall appoint independent evaluators to
oversee the Rep Team selection process for each division. The Evaluators role is to ensure a fair
and impartial selection process. These Evaluators will report directly to the 2nd Vice.
The Rep Head Coach may apply to the 2nd Vice for approval of a temporary Assistant to help with
team selection. Player selection will be monitored by the Supervisor and will be conducted by the
team’s Head Coach, Assistant Coach and a minimum of 3 Evaluators. These Evaluators are
appointed and approved by TMHA and will have no affiliation with any of the players trying out for a
specific division.

Evaluations will include tests of skills through drills and scrimmages. Players will be assessed on
the following:

 basic skills such as skating, passing, shooting, checking, etc.
Updated June 2021

 team skills such as offensive and defensive tactics and the ability to play as part of a team;
and

 attitude, willingness to take instruction and direction, work ethic, leadership qualities and
respect shown to coaches, officials, opponents and teammates.

It is the Evaluator’s responsibility to assist the Rep team Head Coach to select no less than 15
skaters and 2 goalies from those attending the tryouts.

TMHA will utilize BC Hockey’s High Performance Selection process in which players will receive a
ranking between 1-5 (1 being the lowest, and 5 being the highest). In the first round of the selection
process, the coaches and Evaluators will decide as to what number, past the required 15 skaters
and 2 goalies, the ranking process goes to. Any player below the final ranking number selected,
after the 3rd ice session, will not be asked to return for further ice time. Any player returning to the
selection process must continually be ranked until they are selected to the team or are released.
It is the Rep Head Coach’s responsibility to make the final selections for the team from the
remaining players. This is to be done in conjunction with the evaluators. It is recommended that the
majority of the Evaluators agree to the selections, however, it is ultimately the Rep team Head
Coach that makes the final decision. If the Rep Head Coach makes a selection without a majority
agreement, they then will be required to provide a rationale, in writing, to the Supervisor. In
decisions regarding the Rep Head Coach and/or Assistant Coach’s child, the respective Coach’s
evaluation will be forfeit. NO discussions regarding player selections or releases are to take place
unless the TMHA Supervisor is present. If any player or parent has any questions or concerns over
a release, they are to speak directly with the Rep Head Coach.

Player Releases

TMHA will follow the Representative Tryout Procedure Guideline, which also forms part of the
TMHA Policy. Players may not be released prior to their third ice time (pre-skate and/or tryout).
Upon their release, coaches are expected to speak with players, in person, highlighting strengths
and explaining opportunities for improvement in a manner that is consistent with promoting a
positive experience. This must be done with at least one other person present (ie, on ice assistant
or player’s parent).

Coaches should avoid overcompensating disappointed players with unrealistic consolation or
assuring them of an AP position that will not be followed through with. All releases must be
communicated to the Representative Supervisor within 24 hours. The Representative Supervisor
will inform the House Division Supervisor of all players released.

Mid-season releases

Should, for any reason, a Rep Head Coach decide to release a player after the season has
commenced, the Rep Head Coach must document the reasons in writing to the 2nd Vice, and must
receive approval for the release, prior to advising the player and parent(s) of the player’s
termination from the team.

Appeals

After discussing their concerns with the Rep Head Coach, any appeal of the player selection
process must be in writing and delivered to the 2nd Vice after a minimum of 24 hours has expired,
and within 7 days of the player’s release.

The TMHA Head Coach will review the selection decision and discuss the reasons with the
affected players and parent(s). If the TMHA Head Coach feels that the player’s appeal has merit,
he will discuss the matter with the Rep Head Coach and 2nd Vice to determine if selection process
was fair. If a “second look” is required, it will then be the decision of the Rep Head Coach, TMHA
Head Coach, and 2nd Vice as to whether the initial decision will be overturned, and the player
placed on the team. After a decision is reached, whether the original decision stands or is
changed, the affected player will be advised of the decision in writing. This decision is final. There
may be no further appeals against this decision.
Injury prior to or during tryouts

Any player who is injured before or during tryouts will be given the opportunity to be assessed for
Rep Team suitability by the Rep Team’s Head Coach, and the TMHA Head Coach once the player
is ready to return to play with their assigned House team. This can take place up to January 15th.
The desire to be assessed after injury must be indicated in writing to the Rep Head Coach before
the end of tryouts.

Players Transferring In

Players moving into the TMHA Association area after tryouts, may request an evaluation after
being placed on a House team. The Rep Head coach and TMHA Head Coach will then evaluate
the player from their respective House team. No player may join Rep Team tryouts after the first
releases are made unless the player is returning from injury or from a Junior tryout. The Rep Head
Coach must make a written request to the 2nd Vice for approval.

Carding Players

Each representative team is provided 20 cards for the season. Only 19 cards can be active at one
time. Once a card has been used, it cannot be replaced. It is in the best interests of each team to
card the minimum number of players required to start the season and add players throughout the
season as circumstances require. Such circumstances may include a season-ending injury to a
player, a player quitting Rep hockey for the season, etc. If a player chooses to quit the team after
they have been carded the Team Manager must request that the TMHA Registrar contact BC
Hockey ASAP to have the player card “returned” stating the reason, this is done so as to not “burn”
a player card and allow to card another player if necessary.
Prior to the start of the season, coaches must have a parent/guardian meeting outlining
team plans, coach philosophy and budget expectations for the year. Once parents and players
have been informed of the financial and time commitments required for the team, they will have the
necessary information for making an informed decision to stay with the team or not.

Parents and players must be made aware that players can be released at any time and if they are
released after January 10th, that they are not permitted to play for another team including
Recreational League teams as per HC and BCH rules. Players that indicate that they quit their
team after January 10th shall be removed from the roster and will not be able to play on any other
team for the remainder of the season.

As soon as one person is carded to the team, non-carded players and/or staff members are not
permitted on the ice for practices or games.

A player is carded until the next hockey season. Hockey Canada prohibits a player from playing on
any team other than the one with which they have HC certification, and only HC carded players
and Affiliates are eligible to play on a Rep team. Any coach who knowingly plays an ineligible
player is subject to suspension by the NWD, BC Hockey and/or TMHA. In tournament play, any
team with an ineligible player would be disqualified and all points awarded to the opposing team. A
carded player who knowingly plays on a team other than the one with which they are carded may
also be suspended.

Player Selection and Carding Timeline

TMHA has a responsibility to select teams and Affiliate players on a timely basis in accordance
with the rules. Prolonging the selection process is frustrating for players, parents and teams. To
ensure minimal disruption to players and teams and to maintain the integrity of the player
development process, the following timeline for team selection, carding and league play will be
observed:

AUGUST

 Head coach selected

SEPTEMBER

 Rep tryouts begin after Labour Day and will consist of at least one pre-skate, two tryouts’
skates and one game/tryout. The process may not exceed three weeks.

 Carding process started – Tier 3 releases to Recreational

Affiliate Players (APs)

Affiliation is a means of providing for the absence, injury or illness of a team’s regular player while
providing an opportunity for lower caliber players to play at the "next level”.

Affiliation provides an opportunity for Representative teams to dress the maximum number of
players allowable for a game in accordance with the playing rules.

Affiliation is meant to provide development opportunities for players and address unexpected
absences of regular players from a roster.

In order to be Affiliated, players must be registered with TMHA, and pay the respective tryout fee.
Players that did not try out for a Rep team are required to pay the tryout fee prior to being Affiliated.

Coaches and players of Representative teams agree that the AP process is a vital part of the
development of players and should be supported. It is expected that all Rep teams commit to the
AP process by having the AP’s attend weekly practices to prepare and develop the skills needed to
be inserted into the lineup on short notice.

In the event that the AP’s Recreational coach declines the request that the AP play for the Rep
team and the coach of the Rep team feels that his team would be unnecessarily disadvantaged if
the AP’s regular coach does not let the AP play for them, he can appeal to the 2nd Vice for an
appropriate mediation. The 2nd Vice, along with TMHA Head Coach will acknowledge the appeal
from both perspectives and agree on the appropriate decision. Teams’ competition, player
development and player safety based on roster numbers will be equally discussed to determine the
outcome of the appeal. Tournaments for the player’s regular team are always the first priority.
An AP may only play for the Rep team if there is a regular carded player missing from the higher
team’s roster due to an injury, illness or other absence. Representative coaches will not use an
Affiliated players to replace healthy, capable and willing carded players.

If the higher team requests to card the AP to their team, the player must first be released from their
regular team. Carding regulations and roster size limits must be followed.

TMHA understands that not every team or situation will allow for the use of Active Affiliated Players
and recognize that it is solely the Rep Head Coach’s decision on the use of Active Affiliates. To
clarify, an Active Affiliate player(s) is one that both plays and practices with the Rep team. The
level of game play is dependent on discussions with that player, their parent(s), and the Rep Head
Coach prior to the start of season. For example, if the Rep Head Coach has one position open on
the team and can’t decide between 2 players, he may split the position, giving each player half of
League and tournament games. These players are Active Affiliate players as they are regularly
scheduled for games. Active Affiliated players are required to pay full fees and take part in all
fundraising. An affiliate player is not required to pay full fees or assist fully in fundraising, unless
they are classified as an “active Affiliate” .

Affiliation Process

The following process will be followed:

 The deadline to name an Affiliate player to a team is January 10.

 All regular team or player lists must be forwarded to the registrar for submission to BCH
before any player (carded or AP) is eligible to participate in a league or tournament game.

 Coaches of Affiliated players will not withhold permission unreasonably. Any conflicts
between whether a player shall play with their regular team or an Affiliate team, can be
mediated by the Representative Supervisor.

 Affiliate players are permitted to play a maximum of 10 games (regular season and
playoffs) with the Rep team during the season per HC Rules.

 Before the 11th game there shall be a meeting involving the two coaches, the player and
the player's parents/guardians to discuss the ramifications.

 The player must return to their regular team and will not be able to play for the Rep team
until such time as the regular team completes its regular season.

 If the Rep team expects to continue using the player, the player can be carded to the Rep
team as a regular player. The player must first be released by the Recreational team, and it
must be on or before January 10. The Rep team must have an available card to use.

 Playing an 11th game as an AP for the Rep team before the regular season is completed,
will qualify as the Rep team playing an ineligible player resulting in disciplinary action. The
Head Coach of the higher team and the AP shall be subject to discipline for doing so. Any
games in which an ineligible player is used shall be forfeited.

Team Captains

Coaching staff should recognize that the Team Captain and alternates are extensions of the
coaching staff and should represent their team philosophy. Captains should be familiar with
specific playing rules and possess good communication skills. If team players select their own
captain, the coaching staff should inform the players of the qualities that they would prefer.

ICE ALLOCATION

All representative teams will be provided with one early morning ice time, and one evening ice time
for practices based on team scheduling needs and ice availability. Factors to be considered are,
but not limited to: the age of the players and AP practice requirements.

Coaches must provide 72 hours’ notice for any ice time that cannot be used by their team. Teams
must return any such ice to TMHA for redistribution. Teams shall not reallocate their assigned ice
to any other team without the approval of TMHA.

Additional ice may be available from time to time. Allocations will be done in a fair and equitable
manner through the TMHA ice coordinator. Rep teams will be charged actual ice costs for ice that
has been allocated as the result of the regular schedule and subsequently goes unused.
Teams may purchase additional ice times for practice at the sole expense of the team. Coaches
must inform the 2nd Vice of their intention so the City of Terrace can be notified. Currently, only the
TMHA ice Coordinator is permitted to book ice, unless the COT is notified otherwise.

TEAM FINANCIALS

All Rep teams must observe TMHA policy with respect to sponsorship, fundraising and finance
practices. It is the expectation that all teams and specifically all team staff, that every effort shall be
made to act in a fiscally responsible manner. Unnecessary expenses should be avoided.
Representative Team Accounts

There will be one (1) representative team bank account per team. Rep teams shall have one (1)
bank account held at the bank approved by the TMHA Executive.

Rep team accounts will be set up by the TMHA Administrator with four signatories on each team
account including the TMHA President and the 2nd Vice President. In the event of a conflict, the
TMHA treasurer shall sign as an alternate. The Team Treasurer and Team Manager shall
comprise the remaining two signatories. In the event of a conflict, the team Head Coach shall sign
as an alternate. TMHA must be notified of any changes or additions to a bank account. Team
signatories must not be related in any manner, nor shall they reside at the same residence as any
of the coaching staff or team treasurer Team funds are the property of the players’
parent/guardians. Management of team funds shall be in accordance with TMHA Policy.
Any travel costs, equipment, ice time, tournament, clothing or fundraising items purchased by a
team shall be the responsibility of the team; TMHA accepts no responsibility for non-payment of
these bills. TMHA is obliged to release the names, phone numbers and addresses of its members
to companies or individuals who are owed money relating to TMHA activities.
Any funds remaining in the team account at the end of the season may be disbursed equitably
amongst the players and their families to the extent that monthly assessments were paid to the
team or donated to the team. Funds reimbursed to parents will be by cheque from the team
account. Since team accounts will not necessarily be the same from year-to-year, any account
balance remaining after May 31st will become the property of TMHA. All teams are to leave a
minimum balance of $2500 in their account at the end of the season. Each team will start with a
balance of $2500 in the next season.

Team Funds

Parents must pay dues (assessment fees) to help cover the cost of team expenses. Assessment
fees are to be paid at the discretion of the Head Coach and payable based on the number of
players. Failure to pay assessment fees will result in the player being suspended from travel until
funds are paid. Consistent nonpayment may result in permanent removal from the team. Parents
are also expected to participate in fundraising events to offset the amount of the required monthly
dues.

Where a team surplus exists at the end of the season, parents/guardians may only be reimbursed
for dues to the extent that dues were paid. Funds generated by the team by any other means must
not be allocated to parents.

Allowable Team Fundraising/Revenue Sources

Rep teams must apply to the TMHA Executive for approval of all fundraising events and all
applications for lottery licenses must be coordinated through TMHA. Teams are responsible for the
purchase, sale and payment of any merchandise. TMHA accepts no responsibility for non-payment
on fund-raising merchandise. All licensed gaming MUST follow the current rules of the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch.
Special Event Sanctioning must be obtained for any event, other than hockey, done as a team.
Liquor, prohibited or restricted firearms and live animals cannot be offered as prizes.

Teams are permitted to conduct 50/50 draws at all home League games, playoff games, home
tournaments and pub nights, providing they have applied for and received the necessary gaming
licenses. Failure to obtain the required sanctioning and gaming licenses will result in a team fine
minimum $500.00 per infraction.

Teams conducting fundraising events without the necessary special event sanctioning will be
referred to the TMHA Executive.

Primary sponsors may provide additional sponsorship to their designated team if they choose.
Secondary supporters may be considered; however, names of such supporters must not be
advertised in any way so as not to conflict with existing sponsors. Any additional sponsorship,
whatever the nature, must be pre-approved by TMHA.

Unapproved fundraising or solicitation may result in disciplinary action and can include the loss of
solicited cash or items.

Teams may not contact TMHA sponsors for additional funds. A ‘No Contact’ sponsor list is
available upon request.

Allowable Team Expenses

The following items are considered allowable expenses for each Representative team. The
indicated formulas shall be used by coaches in developing their season budgets. The Executive
shall review any predetermined amounts on an annual basis.

 Tournament Entry Fees

 Team Accommodations

 Team Meals

 Fuel

 Team clothing

 Team events and activities – extracurricular activities while on travel, dryland activities,
team building events etc.

 Team fundraising initiatives – prize purchases and administration costs.

Team Budget

The team budget will be drafted during the pre-season based on the travel that the head coach
plans to do during the regular season. The drafted budget shall be distributed to the parent group
at the first practice from when it was submitted. Parents are to be provided seven (7) days
minimum, to review the budget, discuss it with their peers prior to approving it. All approval
discussion and voting must occur in-person. The principle of 75% in favor of the motion will apply
when parents vote. Parents will be provided one vote per player.

TMHA recommends that the team budget will, at minimum, include the following:

 Expenses

 Estimated tournament travel costs – Each tournament in the coach’s season plan shall
include:

o Tournament entry fees – varies from tournament to tournament (TMHA pays for
three tournament entry fees per team, to a maximum of $4500 annually).

o Travel costs – this will identify bus travel or parent travel

o Meal costs – food for players and team staff only.

 Estimated travel expenses for League games

 Estimated team expenses for clothing (including team socks), dryland expenses, team
events, etc.

 Estimated fundraising initiative expenses.

 Season Raffle

o prizes

o Ticket printing

Revenue

Team revenue can be generated from the following:

 Assessment fees

 50/50 draws during home league games

 Fundraisers

Remuneration and expense reimbursement for team travel
Head coaches are expected to travel with their team on every trip.
All expenses are paid by the team as follows and there shall be no further reimbursement for
incurred expenses.

 A maximum of 3 coaches, team manager, HCSP, food room attendant, bus driver and
chaperones (if required) shall be paid for per trip:

o their hotel with the team,

o meals with the team and

o transportation via bus or parent drive

Accommodations

Reimbursement at the rate of a standard, 2 queen room at the hotel where the group block was
made. The team is not responsible for room upgrades or additional nights. If there is more than
one non-parent staff member travelling, the expectation is they will share a room with the non parent head coach.

General

 All remuneration and expense reimbursement must be presented in the team budget.
 All reimbursements must be supported by receipts.
 To be reimbursed, team staff must have actively participated in the trip. Responsibilities
include supervision, maintaining the schedules and knowing the whereabouts and "goings-on" of all
players at all times.

SPONSORSHIP

TMHA Rep teams are not permitted to have more than one sponsor in a season. Official Rep team
sponsors are:

U13 - Pizza Hut
U15 - MacCarthy Motors
U18 - Totem Ford

TMHA Rep parents may contribute sponsorship funds from their own personal business or
employer but must do so understanding that the team cannot adopt the name of their company or
employer as their official sponsor.

FUNDRAISING

TMHA Rep Teams are permitted to engage in fundraising activities in the community to a
maximum of 75% of their annual budget. All Fundraisers will be brought to the TMHA Executive for
prior approval. Application for sanctioning of fundraisers is done through the TMHA Risk Manager
and any Gaming Licenses must be applied for through the TMHA Treasurer Liaison. Teams are
required to ensure that all follow up paperwork for said licenses is completed in a timely manner
prior to the close of the season. TMHA Rep teams are permitted to host 50/50 fundraisers at all
home games in a season (under blanket TMHA gaming license). Any excess fundraised dollars
will be returned to the TMHA General Account and used for player development initiatives at all
levels.

Representative Hockey Team Apparel & Dress Code

TEAM DRESS CODE

Teams will be provided with one (1) set of home (white) and one set of away (black) jerseys. Team
manager or designate is responsible for the team jerseys. Jerseys are not to go home with the
players. Teams must purchase two (2) pairs of hockey socks – one set of home white and one set
of away black for each.

Dress Code for Players

All players must be in dress clothes for both home and away games, dress clothes are the
following, dress pants, shirt, tie and dress shoes. An exception will be made for away games that
travel will occur right after that game is completed, in this case casual clothes will be permitted.

Dress Code for Coaching Staff

All Coaches and Staff must be in dress attire for all games home and away. This will consist of
dress pants, shirt, dress shoes. The only exceptions is for the team HCSP person they may be in
runners and team tracksuit for games.

Approved Team Apparel

All Rep team apparel must conform to TMHA colours of black, red and white. Kermodes logo only.
Helmets must be black in color CSA approved.

Travel

 Coaches are expected to share coach rooms.
 Players are expected to stay in player rooms, except in circumstances of medical
conditions.
 U13 – three players, one chaperone to a room
 U15-U18 – four players to a room, coach to name “room captain”
 If team staff (parent or non-parent) use alternate options to the accommodation,
transportation or meals with the team, it will be at their own expense.

BUSES

TMHA strongly recommends that whenever possible team travel on the TMHA bus. When
travelling in the winter it is in the best interest of our coaches and players travel together in an
effort to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. The opportunity to travel as a team on a bus is
quite a fun and team building experience for our players.

All requests to use the bus will go through the TMHA Bus Coordinator and will be assigned with the
following criteria in mind (it is not first come, first serve); priority will be given to the team travelling
the furthest distance. In the case where the distance is the equal, priority will be given to the senior
team.

All teams must pay a $1000 per use fee for all trips past Prince George. There is no fee for trips
between Terrace and Prince George. This fee is to help offset the cost of regular bus maintenance.
Buses are to be returned cleaned and refueled. Failure to do so will result in a cleaning and/or
refueling fee.

PLAYER DRIVING POLICY

U18 aged players that are of driving age and are licensed to drive are not permitted to drive
themselves to out of town games. Even if that game is in close proximity to their home.

DISCIPLINE

TMHA is committed to providing a safe environment for all hockey players and team staff.
Representative division players frequently travel without direct parental supervision. TMHA has
established Codes of Conduct outlining the minimum standards of behavior that all players and
coaches must adhere to. Each player and team staff must submit a signed copy of their Code of
Conduct to TMHA at the beginning of each season.

TMHA expects coaches and team officials to maintain strict discipline among players and
parent/guardians. The coach, players and parent/guardians represent not only TMHA, but also
team sponsors and the City of Terrace. It is the responsibility of the coach to be aware of the rules
and regulations at all levels. Parents shall commit to the BC Hockey Fair Play contract for parents.
Specific team rules should be established at the first meeting of the year with input from all parties
including players, parent/guardians, coaching staff and management. Rules should be in writing
and distributed to each player and their parent/guardians so that all are aware of team
expectations. These rules are over and above TMHA, NWDMHA, BCH and HC rules and must not
in any way contradict them. They should include matters such as missed practices, meeting times
prior to games, communicating with coaches, parent expectations, etc.

Coaches will make reasonable efforts to ascertain whether a player has a valid reason for failing to
show up to practices or games on a consistent basis. If in the opinion of the coach, the player has
not demonstrated a commitment to the team, the player may be released.

With respect to game play, coaches are responsible for player discipline and upholding the
decisions of the officials. Coaches and managers must ensure that all automatic penalties are
served and that no player or team official returns or plays prior to the completion of the suspension.
Coaches and team officials have the authority to suspend a player or players. All disciplinary
actions must be accompanied by an incident report completed and presented to the
Representative Supervisor within five (5) days of the incident occurring. Incident reports will be
reviewed by the Representative Supervisor and if in the opinion of the Representative Supervisor,
coaches, or team officials, suspensions beyond one game are necessary, the circumstances will
be communicated to the conduct committee. Coaches are also responsible for player discipline
with respect to dressing rooms, hotel rooms and bus travel. Teams found to be in violation of these
expectations may be suspended from league play.

Specific disciplinary actions with respect to League games and/or tournaments shall be
administered by the NWDMHA, BCH, HC and the Conduct Committee. Suspensions received on
the road beyond one game must be communicated to the Representative Supervisor.

Players are expected to act responsibly and be ambassadors of their sport. If at any time a player
participates in an event or activity while representing TMHA or their sponsors wearing team
jerseys, tracksuits, or jackets, they are expected to behave in a manner consistent with
demonstrating good sportsmanship, respect for their peers and respect for community members.
Failure to do so will result in reprimand and possible suspension from play, as determined by the

TMHA Conduct Committee.

Suspensions (Discipline)
Minimum suspension guidelines will follow the most recent BC Hockey Bulletin for Minimum
suspensions - Minor/Female. Suspensions (in addition to the minimum suspension guidelines) can
be given, or as the Association deems necessary for player and coach conduct on the ice and in
the stands.

Locker Room Policy/Monitoring

Dressing Room
Players should be supervised at all times. A lone personnel member should never be in
the dressing room with players at any time, it is strictly prohibited when players are
showering or changing: Two adults should be present, together, this is called the “Two
Deep Method” of supervision.

Should separate dressing rooms be required, both dressing rooms require the
appropriate adult supervision. See TMHA Coed Dressing Room Policy.

Injury Treatment

The Safety Person should avoid treating injuries out of sight of others. Use the Two Deep
Method of Supervision (Two Adults).

Female Teams

It is recommended that when using the “Two Deep Method” with Female Hockey Teams,
there shall be 2 female supervisors with the players where possible. If not possible there
may be one (1) male and one (1) female supervisor. The male supervisor, however
would not enter the dressing room but within hearing distance to protect supervisors and
players. Please refer to TMHA Co-ed dressing room policy for dressing room dress
codes on Co-ed Teams.

Physical Contact

Team personnel should avoid touching a player. Use the “Two Deep Method” (two
personnel or two players) supervision system. The comfort level and dignity of the player
should always be a priority. Limited touching to “safe areas” such as hand or shoulder.

Isolated Spaces
Parents and guardians should never leave their child unsupervised in a facility, nor should
they leave their child alone with a single personnel member (use the Two Deep
Supervision method).

Sport and Training Facilities
Participants that are minors should never be left waiting in a facility without the supervision of
a parent or guardian or personnel member (using the Two Deep Supervision method).

Parents in Locker room
Except for players at the younger age groups (U9 - Novice and U7-Timbits) we discourage
parents from entering into locker rooms unless it is truly necessary. If a player needs
assistance with his or her uniform or gear, if the player is or may be injured, or a player’s
disability warrants assistance, then we ask that parents let the coach know beforehand
that he or she will be helped the player.

Naturally, with our youngest age groups it is necessary for parents to assist the player
getting dressed. We encourage parents to teach their players as young as possible how to
get dressed so that players will learn as early as possible how to get dressed
independently. In circumstances where parents are permitted in the locker room, coaches
are permitted to ask that the parents leave for a short time before the game and for a short
time after the game so that the coaches may address the players. As players get older,
the coach may in his or her discretion prohibit parent from a locker room. In general,
parents should not enter the dressing room if the players undress to less than shorts and t
shirts.

Co-Ed Dressing Room Policy

1. In all cases where members of a team include both male and female player,
the following dress code will apply in the team dressing room:
a) Male players will not undress to less than a minimum of shorts while
females are present.
b) Female players will not undress to less than a minimum of shorts and tee-shirt
while males are present.
2. When separate facilities exist for both male and female participants, males and
females shall make use of these separate facilities in order to change to the point
that they can adhere to the co-ed dress code noted above (Note: once dressed in
accordance with the minimum requirements above all players may return to the
team [co-ed] dressing room).
3. When separate facilities do not exist for both male and female participants:
a) Players shall dress, undress and show in shifts while maintaining the
minimum dress code
noted above.
b) Players of the under-represented gender shall be granted access to the
shower facilities after the balance of the team.
4. It is the responsibility of the team to ensure that these guidelines are followed.

Smart Phones and other Mobile Recording Devices
Smart phones and other mobile devices with recording capabilities, including voice
recording, still cameras and video cameras, are not permitted to be used in the locker
rooms. If phone or other mobile devices must be used, they should be taken outside of
the locker room.

Player Movement Procedures

A parent can make a request to move their child to a higher or lower division by writing
with reasons to the Division Head or 1st Vice. Moving a player to a different division has
many repercussions on the league and is not taken lightly by TMHA. The Head Coach,
Assistant Coaches and 1st Vice with the agreement of the parents, may initiate a review
of the player’s skills. The player will then be evaluated on his/her skills in their age
appropriate division and the division that they have requested to move to. Evaluation will
be done by impartial parties appointed by the 1st Vice. A decision will then be based on
the evaluation. In the event of a disagreement, the 1st Vice will conduct a review and after
discussion with the evaluators, previous player’s Coaches and Division Heads will make a
decision. The decision can be appealed in accordance with the TMHA appeal procedure.
A player moved to a higher division will play on a House team in that division and will not
be eligible for the Rep team in that division as they will not be of age. A player moved to a
lower division will be re-evaluated at the end of the first half to determine if they should
continue in the lower division or move up to the proper division.
A Rep player may play as an affiliate player on the next higher Rep team, as provided in
CHA bylaws. A Rep player who voluntarily quits or resigns from a Rep team must play in
the House division of the next higher age group and is ineligible to play on a Rep team in
the higher division.

Rep team Coaches may reassign players to the House division with the agreement of the
Division Head. Coaches will not recruit House players to move to the Rep team, unless
they have the prior agreement of the Division Head. Players may be brought out to Rep
evaluations or practice with the Division Head’s approval.
All players playing on a Rep team in league or tournament games must be registered with
CHA and when they are reassigned to the House division, must be released.

Goaltender Assistance Policy

TMHA will provide goaltender’s equipment in all divisions below the Bantam division
including pads, upper body protector, blocker, catcher and sticks if needed. All other
equipment such as pants, helmets and skates, etc. are the player’s responsibility.
In Bantam and higher divisions, the goaltenders will supply their own equipment. All
TMHA goalie gear is to be shared among players. Gear is to be used for regular season
play only, and this gear must be returned to the Equipment Manager at season-end.
(TMHA does not lend out gear for summer hockey camps).

The Association will provide financial support to goaltenders to offset the significant cost of
purchasing and replacing this equipment.

Goaltenders playing U13 (PeeWee Rep) and older (including U15 -Bantam and U18 - Midget House),
are eligible for the reimbursement. Goalies playing U13 (PeeWee) House, and younger, are
not eligible. In order to be eligible for reimbursement, all gear must be supplied by the
parent(s) and not on loan from TMHA.

As long as goaltenders are registered and play for TMHA, they will be reimbursed $100
per season. The Division Head and 1st Vice will discuss this and provide the Treasurer
with information for reimbursement in January. The player is free to use the
reimbursement as they require, although this assistance is intended for goaltender
equipment replacement as needed.

Bus Operations

The Bus Coordinator is responsible for the booking, maintenance and operation of the two
TMHA buses. He will recommend to the Executive, any major expenditure on the buses.
The Bus Coordinator will schedule use of the bus based upon who requested if first and
the distance to be travelled. Rep team travel will be given priority due to the amount of
travel required. In the event of competing requests, the Bus Coordinator’s decision shall
be final.

The Bus Coordinator will ensure that drivers have submitted a current driver’s abstract
and that only qualified and acceptable drivers operate the bus. The driver will maintain a
driver’s log for each trip the bus is operated.
Bus User Fee: There is a user fee of $1000 for each trip past Prince George. User fees
must be paid prior to the bus being released to a team.

Teams using the bus will ensure that:

• the bus is returned clean and re-fuelled at the team’s expense;
• any damage caused by the team is their responsibility;
• drivers will conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections and will maintain the bus
maintenance log for any needed repairs;
• major repairs will be reported to the Bus Coordinator who will determine what is
required; and
• safe use of the bus is the team’s responsibility as continued use is a privilege that can
be revoked.

Requests to rent the bus must be in writing and addressed to the Bus Coordinator
for decision. TMHA reserves the right to charge a rental fee for the use of either bus.

Travel Guidelines

The Coach or Manager will ensure that all out-of-town travel arrangements are adequately
planned and follow good risk management procedures:

• The Coach, Manager and driver will evaluate weather and road conditions and they
will make the decision to travel in inclement weather conditions.
•U18 (Midget)-aged players are not allowed to drive out-of-town on minor hockey activities.

Travel Assistance - House teams
Since each House team travels only occasionally, a team bank account is not allowed.
TMHA will pay for one out-of-town tournament entry fee per team in each division and
supply one in-town tournament per division if ice is available. TMHA will not provide any
travel assistance to any House team.

TMHA will pay for one out-of-town tournament entry fee for each of the two divisions in
Girls Development hockey.

Travel Assistance - Rep teams

The three Tier 3 Rep teams will fundraise and manage their own expenses. TMHA will pay
for a maximum of three tournament entry fee reimbursements for each Rep team to a
maximum of $1500 each. In the event that there is a second Rep team in any division i.e.
Midget Tier 4 Rep, TMHA will pay for two tournament entry fees to a maximum of $1500
each. TMHA will not provide any travel assistance for Rep teams.

Provincial travel assistance requests may be considered and discussed after Zone play
downs if a team qualifies for Provincials and if TMHA has monies to support this.
Any additional expenses will not be claimed. Rep teams are encouraged to pay for Coach,
Assistant Coaches and Manager’s expenses, subject to the availability of the team’s
funds. If parents drive, the team may choose to reimburse fuel expenses.
When teams use the bus, the team will pay fuel costs from their account.

Tournament Rules and Guidelines

Out-Of-Town Tournaments

The Division Head will send the House teams to as many out-of town tournaments as
possible and will schedule each team so that all teams travel equally. TMHA will pay for
one out-of-town tournament entry fee per team in each House division and supply one intown tournament per House division, if ice is available. Any extra tournament fees or travel
costs will be the responsibility of the players travelling. TMHA will not provide any travel
assistance to any House team.

TMHA will pay for a maximum of three out-of-town tournament entry fees for each Rep
team and two out-of-town tournament entry fees for a second Rep team in a division. Rep
teams will fundraise and manage their own expenses. TMHA will not provide any travel
assistance for Rep teams.

Tournament entrance fees or reimbursements that are allotted through the travel
assistance policy, will only be provided when a form is submitted through the Division
Head for House teams or the 2nd Vice for Rep teams. This form is available on the TMHA
website.

In-House Tournaments

TMHA will host annual tournaments for all divisions (if there is enough interest). In
September, the Ice Coordinator will schedule these tournaments with the City of Terrace
as special events.

If any specialty team would like to request to hold a tournament in Terrace, they must
make a formal request to the 1st Vice or 2nd Vice. The City of Terrace distributes user ice
in October and January, so requests must be received in ample time before the Ice
Coordinator submits our ice requests to the City of Terrace.

Tournament Sanctions

The TMHA Tournament Director or designated Director will ensure that tournament
sanction applications are made to BCAHA six weeks prior to the tournament date. In
accordance with BCAHA policies, tournament sanctions applied for less than thirty days
prior to the tournament date will be refused and the tournament will not be allowed to
proceed. In addition, TMHA would be liable for a penalty assessment from BCAHA. The
tournament sanction must be posted in a conspicuous location in the arena during the
tournament.

Tournament Fees

Tournament entrance fees for visiting teams are set annually by the Board. These fees
are used to offset the cost of ice rental and referees.
TMHA will pay for the cost of ice and referees for In-House tournaments. TMHA will also
pay for the cost of one lunch and medal or trophy for participating players. As costs for
lunches and medals could vary widely, they must be approved by TMHA prior to
purchase. Divisions and/or teams will not receive any additional monies from TMHA to run
their tournament.

Tournament Requirements

A minimum of three visiting teams is required for an In-House tournament. These teams
must be confirmed, with entrance fees paid, no later than two weeks prior to the

tournament start date unless otherwise approved by the Board. If a division or team is
unable to secure the required number of visiting teams and payments, they must
immediately contact the 1st Vice so that the tournament may be cancelled and the ice
reallocated or returned to the City of Terrace.

All TMHA teams in the division will be included the division’s in-house tournament.
Invitations to visiting teams will be made as equitably as possible.
If the required number of teams has not committed within two weeks of the tournament, an
All-Star team from a lower division may be permitted to participate, with approval from the
President, 1st Vice, Division Head and tournament Chairperson.

Tournament Organization
Each Division Head and/or team Manager will appoint a Tournament Chairperson and
Organization Committee a minimum of six weeks prior to the tournament. The 1st Vice will
provide procedures for the organization of the tournament upon request and will act as an
advisor, but will not become directly involved in tournament organization.

Tournament Game Officials
The Division Head will provide the Referee Scheduler with a tournament schedule. The
Referee Scheduler will assign on-ice officials in conjunction with the Referee-In-Chief or
senior Official. Based on the tournament schedule, the Referee Scheduler will provide a
list of Referees and Linesmen to the BCHA District Referees Committee Member for
approval at least two weeks prior to the tournament. The Referee Scheduler will also
provide the Division Head with a list of assigned Referees and Linesmen. Any last minute
game schedule changes must be communicated to the Referee Scheduler.

Tournament schedules
The Ice Coordinator will schedule the available ice times and provide them to the 1st Vice
or Division Head. The Division Head will assist the Organization Committee with game
and flood scheduling. The Ice Coordinator must be notified of any ice time not required so
that other divisions may make use of this time. A tournament schedule must be provided
to the City of Terrace for review and coordination of requested floods.

Tournament Fundraising
TMHA tournaments generate funds to offset season costs therefore any funds raised
during a tournament that are not used to pay for regular tournament expenses (i.e.
program printing costs), must be submitted to TMHA. Any extraordinary tournament
fundraising activities proposed by the Tournament Committee must be approved by the
Executive to avoid conflict with other prescheduled TMHA fundraising activities.
A tournament reconciliation/financial statement is to be completed by the Tournament
Chair or Tournament Treasurer and is required to be submitted along with the fundraising
money and receipts for expenses to the TMHA Treasurer no later than seven days after
the tournament end date.

Rules Committee
The Tournament Rules Committee will consist of the Tournament Chair, the TMHA
Referee-in-Chief or delegate and an experienced impartial member of the Association. A
Coach or other team official participating in the tournament should not be a member of the
Rules Committee.

The Rules Committee will prepare tournament rules for inclusion in the tournament
program and to be posted in the arena. These will be standardized by the Skeena Valley
League annually but can be modified with the agreement of Executive. The Rules
Committee is responsible for hearing complaints, administering discipline in accordance
with the tournament rules and resolving protests. The only protests that the Rules
Committee can address are those dealing with tournament organization and tournament
rules or decisions or conduct of an off-ice Official. In accordance with CHA rules, a
Referee’s call cannot be subject to protest.

The Rules Committee will ensure that all players participating in the Tournament are
eligible. Tournaments are sanctioned as a Recreational Tournament, a CHA Carded
Tournament or as a Jamboree. CHA carded players may not participate in a tournament
on a House (non-carded) team. House players may not participate on a Rep team. Overage players may play on a House team if approved by the Tournament Chair and if their
play does not incur unacceptable risk management. Over-age players many not play on a
Rep team in a tournament. The ages of all players participating on a team in a tournament
must be disclosed. All players must be registered with the Association sending the
participating team.

Three Goal Rule / Five Goal Spread
To encourage sportsmanship and team play in our lower house divisions U7, U9 & U11(Timbit, Novice
and Atom), Terrace Minor Hockey will adopt a Three Goal Rule. If a player scores more
than 3 goals in any regular season or tournament game, the goal will not be reflected on
the scoreboard. Such goals will be marked on the game sheet but will not count towards
the overall score of the game.

For these divisions, TMHA will also use a Five Goal Spread Rule. At no time during any
game shall the scoreboard reflect any more than a 5-goal spread. All goals will be
recorded on the game sheet but no more than a 5-goal spread shall be reflected in the
overall score of the game. If during a game, there is more than a 5 goal spread showing
on the game sheet, the team with additional goals that would create more than a 5 goal
spread, will have those goals added to the score board, one at a time, each time the
opposing team scores a goal.

Discipline Reviews
Terrace Minor Hockey expects all TMHA teams, players and officials to play with discipline
and to control their conduct both on-ice and off-ice.
The Discipline Committee meets to review any abuse of officials, any bylaw or rule
infraction, to review match and misconduct penalties and to review any incidents of a
serious nature reported to the Executive and referred to the Discipline Committee.

Suspension Guidelines
Please visit our website at www.terraceminorhockey.ca or the BC Hockey website at
www.bchockey.net to view the suspension guidelines.

Three Penalty Rule
TMHA has implemented a 3 penalty per game rule in the U9, U11, U13, U15 & U18 (Novice, Atom, Peewee, Bantam
and Midget) House divisions. The purposes of this rule are:

• to improve the qualities of play and focus on fun and enjoyment for all participants;
• to reduce the pressure on Coaches with regard to disciplining individual players;
• to eliminate “goon” behaviour and poor sportsmanship; and
• to reduce the chances of injury through direct action or retaliation from such behaviour.

The rule will work as follows:

• In the event of a player receiving any three penalties in a game, the third penalty call
would trigger an automatic game ejection.
• For the purpose of this rule, a 2 or 3 minute minor, a double minor, a 5 minute major or
a 10 minute misconduct are all classified as one penalty.
• It is the Time Keeper’s and Referee’s responsibility to monitor the number of penalties
a player receives in a game however, if a Coach is aware of a third penalty, they are
responsible for bringing it to the Referee’s attention.
• The player receiving the game ejection will not serve the penalty but will go directly to
the dressing room. They are not allowed to return to the player’s bench area or
verbally engage any of the game officials in an unsportsmanlike manner.
• A player on the ice at the time of the infraction will serve the penalty, but will not have
this penalty counted against him.
• A player receiving a game ejection with less than 10 minutes remaining in the game
will not receive an additional game misconduct. Coaches are expected to discipline
any player who, in their opinion, purposely incurred a penalty or penalties in order to
receive the game ejection.
• It is the responsibility of the Division Head or Manager to track game ejections incurred
under this rule.
• If a player received more than 3 game ejections in a half season, the Division Head
will forward his record to the Discipline Committee for review and possible further
action. The 1st half season is the beginning of the season to December 25th and the
2nd half season is December 26th to the end of the season, including playoffs.

Acceptable Conduct Guidelines
All players, Coaches and officials are reminded that they are to represent the City of
Terrace and Terrace Minor Hockey with the highest standards of behaviour at all times.
This applies to games at home or while travelling. Certain standards of behaviour are
always expected.

Dress Code

It is the responsibility of the Coach and Manager to set the dress code standard for each
team at the beginning of each season. Dress shirt, tie and clean pants are appropriate
dress standards for any Rep or Travel (“B”) teams representing TMHA.

Discipline

Any player violating team or Association rules while on the road may be subject to
disciplinary procedures. These consequences may include loss of playing privileges,
suspension or being sent home at the parents’ expense. No Coach will send an
unsupervised minor home from a road trip unless the following steps are taken:

• The coach will call the player’s parents and discuss the situation with them. If the
parents and Coach deem it appropriate, the player will be sent home via the most
direct means at the parents’ expense.
• If the parents can not be reached, the player will be accommodated at the discretion of
the Coach or Manager. Any extra expenses incurred in doing this will be the
responsibility of the parents or player.
• The 2nd Vice or President will be advised immediately of the situation. The coaching
staff will submit a written report for submission to the Discipline Committee upon the
teams’ return home.

Practice
Practices are extremely important to all players. Players should not miss practice without
the prior consent of the coaching staff. Playing privileges may be revoked for unjustified
absences from practice. It is the player’s responsibility to contact the Coach prior to
missing any practice. Habitual absence can result in a Rep player being reassigned to a
House team.

Conflicts
Players are reminded that they have made a commitment to the hockey team. Any
conflicts with other sports or activities should be planned and discussed with the coaching
staff as far in advance as possible to prevent misunderstandings.

General
Coaches are reminded that the highest standards must be maintained at all times. 100%
care and control must be exercised over the players and coaching staff at all times.
Leaving players either poorly supervised or unsupervised is a violation of the coaching
code of conduct and may be referred to the Discipline Committee for review.
Representing the City of Terrace and Terrace Minor Hockey Association is a
privilege that must not be taken lightly. Proper behaviour and attitude are essential
at all times. Failure to follow these or other guidelines may result in disciplinary
actions being taken against the offending person, persons or entire team up to and
including loss of playing or travelling privileges.
Appeals Procedure
See Bylaw #7 in the TMHA Constitution on our website at www.terraceminorhockey.ca.
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee consists of the elected officers of the Association, being the
President, 1st Vice President, 2
nd Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and six (6)
Directors, the appointed officers, being the Registrar, Equipment Manager, Head Coach,
Referee-In-Chief, Ice Coordinator and the Division Heads. There is also a Finance
Committee, Coaching Coordination Committee, Discipline Committee, Appeals Committee
and Awards Selection Committee