USA Hockey Core Values and Code of Conduct

Dedham Youth Hockey is committed to upholding the Core Values of hockey and Codes of Conduct set forth by USA Hockey. As a representative of our organization, coaches, players, parents and fans are asked to adopt these values and behaviors each time they are involved in planning, programming, playing, and visiting any rink.

USA Hockey's Core Values:

SPORTSMANSHIP Foremost of all values is to learn a sense of fair play. Become humble in victory, gracious in defeat. We will foster friendship with teammates and opponents alike.

RESPECT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL Treat all others as you expect to be treated.

INTEGRITY We seek to foster honesty and fair play beyond mere strict interpretation of the rules and regulations of the game.

PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE AT THE INDIVIDUAL, TEAM AND ORGANIZATIONAL LEVELS Each member of the organization, whether player, volunteer or staff, should seek to perform each aspect of the game to the highest level of his or her ability.

ENJOYMENT It is important for the hockey experience to be fun, satisfying and rewarding for all participants.

LOYALTY We aspire to teach loyalty to the ideals and fellow members of the sport of hockey.

TEAMWORK We value the strength of learning to work together. The use of teamwork is reinforced and rewarded by success in the hockey experience.

PLAYERS CODE OF CONDUCT

• Play for fun
• Work hard to improve your skills
• Be a team player - get along with your teammates
• Learn teamwork, sportsmanship and discipline
• Be on time for practices and games
• Learn the rules and play by them. Always be a good sport.
• Never argue with an official's decision.
• Respect your coach, your teammates, your parents, opponents and officials.
• No swearing, abusive language, or fighting on the bench, on the ice, in the rink, or at any team function.
• Drinking, smoking, chewing of tobacco, or use of illegal substances at any team function are prohibited.

PARENTS CODE OF CONDUCT

• Do not force your child to participate in hockey. Make it FUN!
• Encourage your child to play by the rules and resolve conflict without resorting to hostility or violence.
• Applaud the good plays of both teams.
• Do not embarrass your child by yelling at players, coaches or officials.
• Know and study the rules of the game and support the officials on and off the ice.
• Encourage your child to play in a manner consistent with the team’s strategy or plans.
• Emphasize skill development and a serious approach to practices.
• Recognize the importance of volunteers who give their time to hockey for your child.
• Remember that your child plays hockey for his or her enjoyment, not yours.
• If you enjoy the game, learn all you can about it and volunteer!

SPECTATORS CODE OF CONDUCT

• Display good sportsmanship. Always respect players, coaches and officials.
• Act appropriately: do not taunt or disturb other fans; enjoy the game together.
• Cheer good plays of all participants; avoid booing opponents.
• Cheer in a positive manner and encourage fair play.
• Do not lean over or pound on the glass; the glass surrounding the ice surface is part of the playing area.
  
• Support the referees and coaches by trusting their judgement and integrity.
• Be alert to prevent accidents from flying pucks and other avoidable situations.
• Respect locker rooms as private areas for players, coaches and officials.
• Be supportive after the game. Win or lose, recognize good effort, teamwork and sportsmanship. 

COACHES CODE OF CONDUCT

• Winning is a consideration, but not the only or most important one.
• Remember, players are involved in hockey for fun and enjoyment.
• Be a positive role model to your players.
• Display emotional maturity and be alert to the physical safety of players.
• Be generous with your praise when it is deserved; be consistent, honest, fair and just.
• Do not criticize players publicly. Be an effective communicator and coach.
• Give all players the opportunity to improve their skills, gain confidence and develop self-esteem.
• Organize practices that are fun and challenging for your players.
• Familiarize yourself with the rules, techniques and strategies of hockey.
• Encourage all your players to be team players.
• Be concerned with the overall development of your players. Stress good health habits and clean living.
• Maintain an open line of communication with your players' parents. Explain the goals and objectives of your association.
• When your players love the game, you know you have coached them well.