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Burlington Amateur Hockey Association Handbook 2015-2016

BAHA Handbook Updated 9/22/15


Welcome Welcome to another season of the Burlington Amateur Hockey Association, (BAHA). The board of directors welcomes the participation of your family in the association. The purpose of this handbook is to help make your experience with BAHA more rewarding by offering information about our program. BAHA exists to provide a constructive recreational opportunity for our children that will have a positive effect on their development. The goal is to create an environment in which the participants may challenge themselves physically, build confidence, and learn sportsmanship, teamwork, and fair play. The personal commitment to these values by every member of the association is fundamental to the continued success of BAHA and the enjoyment of all of its participants. BAHA is an all-volunteer organization including elected officers, a board of directors, committee members, coaches, team coordinators, and parents. All parents are required to volunteer regularly throughout the season. In the very near future we will all be very busy with practices, games, and many other tasks required to make the program work. On behalf of the children in our association, the board wishes to express our appreciation in advance to each parent for volunteering their time. It is your dedication and hard work that will make this season rewarding and memorable for the children. You make it all possible and we are looking forward to a great season. About the Burlington Amateur Hockey Association The Burlington Amateur Hockey Association was founded in 1964 and incorporated as a non-profit organization. Our players reside in the Burlington, Winooski, and Colchester communities. All players must be US citizens to be able to participate in the Burlington Amateur Hockey Association or as approved by the Board of Directors. A board consisting of five elected officers, the past president, and eleven directors governs BAHA. The officers and directors each serve one year terms. The bylaws of the association are available upon request from a member of the Executive Board. BAHA is an affiliate of the Vermont State Amateur Hockey Association, (VSAHA), and USA Hockey. USA Hockey is the governing body of amateur hockey in the United States from local associations, like ours, right up through the US Olympic Team.


BAHA offers programs from learn-to-skate to competitive travel programs. Our home ice arena is Paquette Arena, located at Leddy Park in the North End of Burlington, with possible home games at Gutterson Field House, located at the University of Vermont. We are one of the larger organizations in the Vermont State Amateur Hockey Association with over 200 registered participants and an annual operating budget of over $200,000. The vast majority of funding comes from program fees. Parent involvement in fund raising is essential to keeping the program affordable.

Board Member Information (2015-2016)

Current Board Member Information can be found on the BAHA Website:

Website address: www.bahabobcats.com

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President Chris Micciche

Vice President Travel Brian Charron

Vice President House Karen Poulin

Treasurer Lisa Matanle

Secretary Amy Schalk

Past President Steve Chagnon

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Director - Coaching Alec Smail

Director - Ice Coordinator Kelley Chagnon

Director – Tournaments Kelley Chagnon

Director - State Representative Steve Chagnon

Director - Fundraising George Brown

Director - Registrar Karen Poulin

Director – Equipment Darcy Baird

Director - Girls Program Brian Moody

Referee Coordinator Chris Krol

Director – Publicity *vacant*


BAHA board meetings are normally held on the first Monday of every month at 6:00pm in the upstairs conference room at Leddy Park, unless altered due to holiday, schedule or venue conflicts. Any alterations will be communicated to the membership. Changes to this schedule are sent to the BAHA Membership via email and posted to the BAHA website. Board meetings are open to all BAHA members in good standing. Participation is strongly encouraged. Bring your feedback and ideas forward in a positive environment and be willing to participate to further improve our hockey program. We also encourage you to register your email address at our website to stay informed of the latest information. Check out www.bahabobcats.org for board meeting minutes, schedules, and much more. Without volunteers, BAHA would cease to exist. Parents are needed to schedule ice, schedule referees, schedule games, organize corporate, player, and parent fund raising events, manage violations of the policy on sports conduct, assist with community, school, and member communication, and endless other activities. House, Mite, and Squirt parents should attend at least one board meeting each year to identify opportunities to contribute to the organization and lead it into the future. Get involved and contribute positive energy and ideas. We are here for the children first and foremost! What is USA Hockey? USA Hockey is this country’s national governing body for the sport of ice hockey. In this role, USA Hockey provides a registrar to register teams, a risk manager to oversee liability and safety programs, and an initiation program administrator to facilitate learn-to-skate programs for youth players and their parents. USA Hockey studies and makes recommendations for protective equipment, and provides an insurance plan covering excess medical and liability among other services. For coaches and officials, USA Hockey conducts Coaching and Officiating Education Programs. USA Hockey also promotes uniformity in playing rules and the interpretations of those rules. Our Philosophy BAHA’s mission is to provide a foundation for the growth and development of the participants, designing programs aimed at improving skills and providing a responsive environment for the conduct of youth hockey. Primary emphasis is on the development of skills, sportsmanship and teamwork, and a de-emphasis on excessive competition and a win-at-all-costs attitude. In order to assist in guiding the association's members in their planning, programming, and play, both now and in the future, this association has espoused the following values and objectives.

http://www.bahabobcats.org/


Our Values Sportsmanship - Foremost of all values is to learn a sense of fair play. Become humble in victory and gracious in defeat. Foster friendship with teammates and opponents alike. Integrity - Seek to foster honesty and fair play beyond mere strict interpretation of the rules and regulations of the game. Respect for the individual - Treat all others as you expect to be treated. Pursuit of excellence - 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. Teamwork - We value the strength of learning to play together. The use of teamwork is reinforced and rewarded by success in the hockey experience. Enjoyment- It is important for the hockey experience to be fun, satisfying and rewarding for all participants. Our Objectives

To make every possible attempt to provide everyone, at all skill levels, with a place to play.

To provide programs that encompass fairness to all participants, promote fair and safe play, and teach sportsmanship.

To permit volunteers, including coaches, in the community who demonstrate qualities conducive to being role models to the youth, in the sport of hockey.

To support programs that train and educate players, coaches, parents, officials, and volunteers.

To partner with parents by practicing open communication through parent meetings as well as by being available to answer questions and address problems throughout the season.

To promote and publicize our programs and to seek out financial support when possible.


BAHA Programs Initiation (Mini-Mites) This program is designed to meet the needs of beginning hockey players ages 3 and up. Basic skating and hockey skills are taught in a noncompetitive environment. Physical skill development and fun are stressed. Participants skate one hour per week for approximately 16 weeks. There will be a Jamboree at the end of the season during which each team will play 2-3 games on the small ice over the course of a weekend. House (Mites) This program is intended to provide opportunities to play for enjoyment, fitness and fellowship. Skill development and team concepts are stressed, rather than competition. This program will skate an average of 2 one hour sessions per week (on Friday evenings, Saturday and/or Sunday mornings) for approximately 16 weeks. They may play 8 to 10 scrimmages, over the course of the season. Limited local travel may be required. House mites scrimmage the other BAHA House mite teams, and may scrimmage teams from South Burlington, Essex, St. Albans, or Missisquoi. There will be a Jamboree at the end of the season where each team will play 3-4 games over the course of a weekend. Cross Ice (Mites) In 2007, VSAHA eliminated Travel Mites. Therefore, BAHA has adopted a ‘Cross Ice’ format for the Mite Level of youth Hockey in Vermont as proposed by VSAHA. The intent of this new format is to: Focus on skill development, promote fun, reduce travel for these younger aged skaters, increase interest in youth hockey throughout Vermont and de-emphasis competition for the sake of more balanced player development. Mite Teams will still typically practice two times per week and have at least one game. The game format will be 3 on 3, cross ice or 4 on 4 half/patch ice. Full ice games may be planned during the second half of the season and regular tournament travel will be replaced by regional cross ice format jamborees. Travel Teams (Squirts, PeeWee’s, Bantams, Midgets and Girls)


This program provides an opportunity for higher-level skill development for players who have the desire and ability for a competitive experience. A balance of winning and sportsmanship is stressed. Travel is required for competition with other teams within the Vermont State Amateur Hockey Association. Teams will likely choose to travel within New England, New York, and Canada to play in one or two away tournaments during the season. This competitive experience involves more practices, games, and travel than the House program. Travel “A" - At this level you will typically practice twice a week and play 2-3 games per weekend. There may be away tournaments requiring travel over a weekend. This level will participate in the VSAHA State “A” Tournament. These teams are required to participate in Regional and National Level Tournaments if qualified. Travel “AB” - At this level you will typically practice twice a week and play 2-3 games per weekend. There may be away tournaments requiring travel over a weekend. This level will participate in the VSAHA State “AB” Tournament. Travel “B” - At this level you will typically practice twice a week and play 2-3 games per weekend. There may be away tournaments requiring travel over a weekend. This level will participate in the VSAHA State “B” Tournament. Girls U-12 – At this level you will typically practice twice a week and play 2-3 games per weekend. There may be away tournaments requiring travel over a weekend. This level will participate in the VSAHA State U-12 Tournament. Girls U-14 – At this level you will typically practice twice a week and play 2-3 games per weekend. There may be away tournaments requiring travel over a weekend. This level will participate in the VSAHA State U-14 Tournament. Travel teams play in at least 20 games, and up to 35-40 games per season. Each player must play in 10 regular games during the season to qualify to play in the State Tournament. BAHA Program Fees Program fees are established to cover actual team costs including practice ice, home game ice, referees, insurance, and administration. BAHA does not pay for away game ice. Fees do not include home, away, or state tournaments.


Home Tournaments: BAHA organizes one Home Tournament per season in the form of the BAHA Blizzard Blowout. This has been a very successful tournament in recent years and changes annually for the team levels, tiers, dates, etc….Up to date information the details of the Blizzard Blowout can be found on the BAHA Website. Parents of teams selected to participate in the Blowout are expected to work all games for both the home and visiting teams participating in the tournament. The home tournaments are self-funding. The entrance fee paid by the visiting teams covers the weekend ice and officials. The expense of the home tournament is not included in the program fee. Away Tournaments: Travel teams typically attend one or two away tournaments during the season. Team fees range from $700 - $1000. The expense of away tournaments is not included in the program fee. Parents cover the additional cost of the team entry fee, and their own travel expenses. VSAHA State Tournament: BAHA pays an average of $500 per team to allow participation in the State tournament. The expense of the State tournament is not included in the program fee. To pay for the State tournaments, BAHA hosts one or more State tournament(s). Each team attending the State tournament hosted by BAHA pays a fee. BAHA uses these proceeds to pay the State tournament fees for the teams traveling to another association. In order to host two State tournaments, each team must work four to five State tournament games hosted by BAHA. Skaters that have not paid their fees for the season by December 15th will no longer be eligible to participate in practices or games, including the State Tournament, until their fees are paid in full. Additionally, skaters will not be eligible to register or participate in the tryout process for the following season until all prior year fees are paid in full. Registration Families are encouraged to pay 50% of their program fees by the fall open house date. Program fees are to be paid in full by first day of Try-out warm ups for the current season. Players transferring from another organization must have a signed release at registration. The latest possible date for registration for Travel Teams is September 15th and November 1st for the House Program. No player is allowed on the ice until all registration documents are complete and approved by the VSAHA registrar. BAHA Fund Raising


Vision and Purpose – making youth hockey in Burlington, Colchester and Winooski an accessible, fun, and educational experience through partnership with our community, local businesses and families. BAHA has an organized fund raising committee with an objective to raise funds from individual, corporate and business sponsors. This is done through a series of events and activities. The goal of the BAHA fund raising committee is three fold.

Make the sport of organized hockey more accessible the communities’ youth.

Raising sufficient funds to allow BAHA to maintain reasonable program fees and fund a scholarship program for those needing assistance.

Provide a fun and quality experience in the development of fitness, sportsmanship and hockey knowledge and skills in the communities youth.

Funds raised are used to assist in the general operating expenses of BAHA.

Partner with local businesses and larger corporations for the achievement of our goals for the mutual benefit of our community, its families and its youth. Individual Teams are encouraged to raise funds for their own use within the guidelines set by this policy. Policy: The primary source of fundraising for BAHA comes from special events including, but not limited to, bowl-a-thon, skill-a-thon, raffles, Calcutta. The expectation is that each team will participate and contribute to the goals of the event by securing individual sponsors. An average of $50.00 per player is the goal.

1: BAHA Fund-raising must not be compromised by individual team efforts.

2: A Team must notify the BAHA Board of Directors in writing of any intended fund raising and receive approval for proposed fund raising from the Director of Fund Raising before initiating any fund raising. 3: No team fundraising will be conducted before tryouts or the annual Bowl-a-thon. 4: No team fundraising will be allowed during the Home or State Tournaments. 5: No team fundraising will be permitted at the rink (chuck a puck, etc.)


6: No team fundraising will compete with BAHA fund raising events or activities (i.e. chocolate pucks, Calcutta, Bowl-a-thon). 7: Team fund raising is restricted from soliciting sponsorship from local businesses and corporations for individual team benefits without written authorization from the BAHA board. Corporate/business sponsorship is critical to the BAHA organization’s financial stability. Tryout Process I. Objective BAHA has developed an evaluation process for tryouts that is intended to place players on teams matching the individual skills and competitive level of each child. Great care is taken to ensure that the process is as impartial as possible. BAHA utilizes independent evaluators from outside the organization to objectively evaluate each of the players. Additionally, BAHA will utilize members of our coaching staff to provide subjective input on the results of the tryouts. Each player is given the opportunity to perform at their highest level, in a fair and open chance to compete for a position on each team for which they are eligible. BAHA adheres to an open tryout at all levels, a player is not guaranteed a position on their previous year’s team. If a player is unable to tryout due to injury or other absence then their placement will be determined on a case by case basis. Players will be required to declare for which team they will be trying out for before the start of the tryouts. They will not be allowed to switch after the tryouts have begun (i.e. a female player will not be allowed to tryout for a squirt team and then switch to U12 girls if they do not make the team they want. VSAHA requires that all players play at their age appropriate group as outlined by USA Hockey. No player in any age group will be allowed to ‘play up’ without approval by the BAHA Board of Directors and subsequently the VSAHA Board of Directors The Vice-President of Travel manages tryouts. The Vice-President of Travel will be required to attend the entire tryout process to provide oversight. II. Definitions Tryout Committee – Vice-President of Travel, the Head Coach, and another BAHA member. The BAHA member will be selected by the Vice-President of Travel and approved by the BAHA Board. The committee will be responsible to select the independent evaluators, as well as the BAHA coach, for the tryouts.


Independent (Objective) Evaluators – the three (3) independent evaluators may be chosen by the tryout committee. They will be chosen for their experience and knowledge of ice hockey. They will not have direct ties to the organization (i.e. children or relatives in the tryout process). The independent evaluators will be required to participate during the entire tryout process. They will be instructed not to take breaks or obtain food during actual tryouts, unless it is an emergency. The independent evaluators will be paid a sum agreed upon by the BAHA board of directors. Goaltender (Objective) Evaluator – an independent goaltender evaluator will be chosen by the tryout committee. This person will be chosen for their experience and knowledge of ice hockey, and in particular – evaluating goaltenders. The independent evaluator will be required to participate during the scrimmage sessions and the separate goaltending evaluation (if conducted; this is at the discretion of the Vice President of Travel and the goaltender evaluator). The goaltender evaluator will be paid a sum agreed upon by the BAHA board of directors. BAHA Coach Evaluator - will be chosen by the tryout committee. The coach will be chosen for their experience and knowledge of ice hockey. The BAHA coach will evaluate each player, in the same format as the independent evaluators. The BAHA coach’s scores will be tallied separately from the independent evaluators. The BAHA coach will sit away from the independent evaluators and will not interact with them throughout the process. The BAHA coach’s scores will be used to provide additional objective input to the final selection process, which will be explained in the results and evaluation section of this policy. The BAHA coach will not be paid. Subjective Evaluators – will be chosen by the tryout committee. The subjective evaluators will be coaches with proximity to the level being evaluated (i.e. for squirts – last year’s mite A and mite B head coach, in addition to the head coaches for the squirt teams). The goal will be to have between 3-5 subjective evaluators for each level. The subjective evaluators do not have to have been head coaches. The subjective evaluators will be required to participate during the tryout process for their assigned level (i.e. on the ice and/or bench). The involvement of the subjective evaluators will be further explained in the results and evaluation section of this policy. III. Notification Process

a. Tryout dates for the upcoming season will be selected by the July Board Meeting – once the ice schedule is released by Leddy Park.


b. The BAHA membership will be notified of Registration and Tryouts by the first week of August. Notification will be made by individual post cards mailed to previous year players, e-mail, our web-site, notices in local newspapers, and later in local schools. c. The names of the independent evaluators and their background will be posted the first day of tryouts (not the warm-up day) IV. Tryout Process – Action Plan a. Each player will be checked in during the night of warm-ups. b. Players/parents will be required to complete all necessary BAHA and USA hockey paperwork before they are allowed to tryout. c. Players/parents will meet with Treasurer to ensure all payments have been made before the player is allowed to tryout. Exceptions will be made on a case by case basis, at the discretion of the Treasurer, Treasurer Designee, and/or other member of the Executive Committee. d. Players/parents will be required to read and acknowledge acceptance of the policy on sports conduct in the BAHA Handbook (located on the BAHA Website) by signing in the appropriate field on the Registration form. Failure to accept the requirements of the policy will result in a player, coach, or parent not participating in BAHA. e. Each player will be assigned a pinnie, with a number. This pinnie does not need to be worn for warm-ups, but must be worn by the player during the entire tryout process. No player may trade numbers with another player. Any player knowingly found not to be wearing their assigned number, will be removed from the tryouts. Players will be assigned locker rooms. Players must use their assigned locker room. f. Prior to going onto the ice, before warm-ups and each tryout session, the VP Travel and/or Head Coach, will meet with the players in the locker room to review the rules of the tryout and explain what each session will be focused on. This meeting is mandatory (each day) for all players trying out. g. In order to maximize the use of the ice, each player will be required to be ready to skate 15-minutes prior to their tryout session. h. During tryouts, all players, coaches, and parents will abide by the BAHA policy on sports conduct. i. The tryouts will include 1 warm-up day (Tuesday) and up to three (3) evaluation days Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. V. Tryout Scoring

a. Each evaluator will score each player on a scale of 1- 9, no ½ numbers. b. The scale will be pre-printed on the evaluation form. c. Each evaluator’s scores will be averaged individually, to create separate ranking for each independent evaluator. d. Each evaluator’s average will then merge with that of the other evaluators to form an overall ranking.


e. Evaluators will use a clean score sheet each day so that each skater’s daily score reflects that day’s performance without any bias of previous days.

VI. Drills and Scrimmages

a. The tryout committee will select the drills for the tryout process. b. The drills selected will be chosen to show a players skating and stick handling abilities c. Drills selected will maximize the number of players participating at any one time, to minimize downtime for players – while keeping in mind the limitations on evaluating multiple players at one time. There will still be drills where only one skater participates. However, we will include drills in which multiple players are skating (i.e. skating the circles up to 3 players may be sent at a time to add the element of competition to the drill. d. The tryout committee will prepare the appropriate number of drills for the given ice time (no set number is required for each session). Each evaluation day will have a combination of skills and scrimmage. e. During the scrimmages, there will be coach(s) on the ice, serving as referees. When they blow their whistles, play must stop immediately. f. There will be a minimum of one coach assigned per bench during the scrimmages. These coaches will be required to rotate players equally on the ice and to ensure players rotate positions and partners. g. For scrimmages, effort will be made to create balanced teams. The teams will be created by dividing second year players from the previous year’s team level (i.e. A, AB, or B team). The first year players will also be divided by the previous year’s team level. h. Lines will initially be set for each level. These lines can be modified as necessary during the tryouts. i. Players at the PeeWee level and above, will be allowed to declare the position they prefer to play for the scrimmage portion of the tryout. This declaration will be made on the registration form. This information will be used to initially set scrimmage lines. During the tryouts, a player will likely also be asked to play another position in order to facilitate opportunities for other players. Players will be required to play the position assigned for that particular shift(s). The defensive players, on the ice, will be identified by a piece of colored tape on their helmet. This will allow the evaluators to quickly identify which players on the ice are assigned as defensemen. The coach on the bench will place the tape on the player’s helmet as assigned. j. A player will not be allowed to change a decision of a coach. VII. Evaluation Process a. The evaluators will observe and score all players during the scheduled tryout process. They will be advised to watch the players the entire time the players are on the ice. They will be instructed not to take breaks or obtain food during actual tryouts, unless it is an emergency.


b. Players are identified only by the number assigned to them at the beginning of tryouts. c. The evaluators will be provided score cards and instruction on rating scales (1-9, with 9 being the highest). d. The scores will be entered into our computer software by BAHA board members as the scorecards are completed after each tryout session. This information will be kept completely confidential during the tryout process. The scores are entered with player pinny #’s only – no names are associated during any portion of the try-out process. e. The software program will weight scores according to predetermined percentages. All levels have the same weighting of 75% scrimmage and 25% skill. This does not apply to goaltenders. f. The tryout committee will select drills that are applicable for each level (see drills and scrimmages section for a more detailed explanation). g. The tryout committee will select coaches to be on the ice during each drill session. These coaches will also be utilized as subjective evaluators. h. The tryout committee will select coaches to be on the ice during scrimmages. These coaches will also be utilized as subjective evaluators. i. The tryout committee will select a coach for each bench during the scrimmages. This coach will be responsible to adjust player rotations as requested by the tryout committee or evaluators. j. After the third day of tryouts, a separate numbered ranking (no names) will be created for the BAHA coach evaluator. The ranking will be an average of the BAHA coach evaluator’s scores for each player. This will create a ranking of all players by level. The BAHA coach evaluator will be advised of the cut offs for each team, based on the total number of players in each age group. This will allow the BAHA coach evaluator to focus on players who are closest to the top and bottom of their respective teams (i.e. bubble players). This information will be used during the team selection process. k. Goaltenders (squirt and up) – in addition to being evaluated during the standard tryouts, goaltenders may also be evaluated by a goaltending specific evaluator during special goaltender only session (whether these are conducted is at the discretion of the Vice President or Travel and the goaltender evaluator). VIII. Team Selection Process a. The scores from the evaluators will be tabulated and checked. b. A final ranking for each level will be established c. The team size will be determined by the executive committee, based on the total number of players trying out at each level. d. Subjective Evaluators will be chosen for each level, to provide input to the executive committee on the players within their age range. The subjective evaluators will be 3-5 coaches with proximity to players on the level being reviewed (i.e. coach/coaches) from the previous season or potential coach for current season).


e. The Subjective Evaluators will meet, at the direction of the tryout committee, after the tryouts have been completed and the scores tabulated (and double checked) by the President and Secretary. The Subjective Evaluators input may be used to make decisions on overall roster placement. f. If during the team selection process, an evaluator or executive board member’s child is being discussed, the participant will be recused from the discussion (of their child only). g. By Sunday, the Executive Committee will take the rankings from the valuators, input from the subjective evaluators, the BAHA coach evaluator, and information from past players surveys to help finalize the team rosters, to be presented to the full Board of Directors for final approval. h. Immediately following the board meeting, the Coaching Committee will meet to finalize the coaches for each team. I The Director of Coaching will contact the head coach of each team and offer the opportunity. If accepted, the head coach will be provided the list of his/her potential assistant coaches and roster. It will be the responsibility of the head coach to contact his/her assistant coaches and notify their players in the specified time frame. IX. Skill Level Tolerance a. If during the tryout process it is determined, and approved by the Board of Directors, that a player does not have the skill to participate safely, BAHA reserves the right to not assign the player(s) to a travel team. BAHA will make every effort to provide these players with an opportunity to skate at their level. If we do not have a program to accommodate their needs, we will assist in making contact with other local organizations in an attempt to secure ice time for these players. X. Team Consolidation a. If after the start of the session, due to a large number of players making high school or other teams, the BAHA Executive Board is required to consolidate teams due to the number of players, they will use the information provided during the tryouts to determine which team a player is assigned. The Executive Board will also decide, with input from the coaches, which level the remaining teams will play. XI. Right to Appeal. Any parent has the right to appeal a player roster assignment. Appeals are to be submitted in writing to the BAHA Board of Directors, PO Box 3064, Burlington, VT 05401, postmarked by the first Thursday following the tryout weekend. The Board will review specific, written, concerns and recommendations. A special meeting of the Board of Directors will held the following Monday, to hear and review pending appeals. Decisions regarding an appeal, once rendered, are final.


Burlington Amateur Hockey Association

Policy on Sports Conduct Preamble and Core Values – For Parents, Players and Coaches The Burlington Amateur Hockey Association ascribes to the various codes of conduct of USA Hockey. At the heart of this organization are the Core Values of USA Hockey.

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. We will not argue with coaches or officials decisions

RESPECT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL - Treat all others as you expect to be treated. Get along with your teammates. Respect your coaches, teammates, parents, opponents, officials, and property.

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

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. Put the needs of the team first and foremost.

COMMITMENT – Understand the commitment to your teammates, coaches, and yourself. Work hard to improve your skills. Be on time for practices and games.


Expectations of Parents Each parent is expected to be familiar with the core values and their place in the organization. BAHA is a not-for-profit organization, devoted to promoting youth hockey by making it as accessible as possible – to as many youths as possible. To fulfill this goal, everyone involved, from the individuals who serve on its executive board, to the coaches who spend countless hours working with the players in practices and games, is a volunteer. This not only minimizes the expense for our players, it also allows all of us to enjoy the unity of teamwork our coaches instill in our children that makes the program so rewarding. However, many newcomers to BAHA are unfamiliar with the operation of the organization and don’t know where they can help. So, to make it easy for everyone concerned, we have established a very simple process to get you acquainted with some of the fundamental responsibilities associated with hosting a hockey game. Every team has a ‘team parent’ who facilitates the process and coordinates the assignments. The coach and team parent will notify parents at the start of the season and periodically update the assignments to accommodate everyone involved. Burlington Amateur Hockey Association is dedicated to introducing the game of hockey to young men and women and their families. We expect the pursuit of hockey excellence will be accompanied by appropriate sports behavior and respect for every individual as described in the various USA Hockey codes of conduct.

Children participate in organized sports for their enjoyment. Make it fun and support them.

Encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, and officials at every game, practice, or other youth sports event.

Encourage your child to play by the rules. Remember, children learn best by example, so applaud good plays of both teams.

Emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit your young athlete. De-emphasize games and competition in the lower age groups.

Know and study the rules of the game, and support the officials on and off the ice. This approach will help in the development and support of the game. Any criticism of the officials only hurts the game.

Recognize the importance of volunteer coaches. They are important to the development of your child and the sport. Communicate with them and support them.

Remember the game is for the children, not the adults.


BAHA, consistent with USA Hockey’s Zero Tolerance Policy, requires all parents/spectators to maintain sportsmanlike behavior and preserve the educational atmosphere before, during and after all USA Hockey sanctioned games and BAHA events (practices, meetings, etc.). BAHA wants the hockey experience to be rewarding for your child. As a parent, you can help to ensure that it is in many ways.

Volunteer to help with the many tasks required to make our programs successful.

Be sure that your child wears properly fitting equipment.

Ensure that your child attends all practices and games. Finally, BAHA strongly encourages you to embrace and observe the Parent Code of Conduct endorsed by USA Hockey. Team Parents The Team Parent assists the head coach by communicating team news and information to the parents of the players, organizing team events, scheduling parent participation and managing the rotation of game assignments including clock, time keeper, penalty box attendants and locker room monitors. The Team Parent relieves the head coach of the administrative tasks and allows them to focus on player development. The team parent also maintains the team binder with the official state roster, code of conduct forms and consent to treat forms for all players and coaches, game sheets and the tally for state games. Expectations of Players Each player is expected to be familiar with the core values and their place in the organization. Burlington Amateur Hockey Association is dedicated to introducing the game of hockey to young men and women and their families. We expect the pursuit of hockey excellence will be accompanied by appropriate sports behavior and respect for every individual as described in the various USA Hockey codes of conduct. BAHA, consistent with USA Hockey’s Zero Tolerance Policy, requires that players maintain sportsmanlike behavior and preserve the educational atmosphere before, during and after all USA Hockey sanctioned games and BAHA events (practices, meetings, etc.) Participation Standards for Parents and Players


1) Expectations for arrival time will be determined by the coaches and communicated at the beginning of the season. 2) Parents are responsible for getting their child ready to get on the ice 3) If a player is not able to make a practice or a game, the player or parent are responsible for notifying a coach. Repeat offenses could lead to missed shifts or periods during a game – this will only occur after a meeting with the coach, player, and parent. 4) A responsible adult needs to be in the rink at all times, when their child is on the ice (Pee Wee and under). If a parent needs to leave, they should find another parent to monitor their child in case of emergency 5) Players are expected to participate in practice – active listening and strong effort. Ice time is a valuable commodity we cannot afford to waste with players that goof off. 6) BAHA jerseys need to be treated with respect – hung up and kept clean – we recommend storing and transporting them in a protective garment cover (this is an effort to ensure the jerseys last as long as possible) The Board of Directors may require purchase of a new set of jerseys if those belonging to a player are not presentable. 7) All skaters are required to wear protective neck guards. All skaters at the cross ice level or above are required to wear a mouth guard. 8) Coaches/Team Parent may have 3 to 4 team meetings a season in order to keep parents up to date on team happenings and to address any concerns. Email is also widely used for communication and teams are encouraged to have weekly email communication including the upcoming schedule of practices, games, etc. 9) No Parents on the bench during team practice or games. 10) Teams work towards peaking as a team for the State Tournament at the end of the season. In order to ensure the best possible success of each team, players should make every effort to be available for all state tournament games. 11) Parents are expected to equally share the responsibilities at practices, games and tournaments, ie: clock, penalty box, score, admissions table. Expectations of Coaches


Each coach or administrator is expected to be familiar with these values and their place in the organization. Burlington Amateur Hockey Association is dedicated to introducing the game of hockey to young men and women and their families. We expect the pursuit of hockey excellence will be accompanied by appropriate sports behavior and respect for every individual as described in the various USA Hockey codes of conduct.

Winning is a consideration, but not the only one, nor the most important one. Care more about the child playing than winning the game. 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.

Coaches are responsible for knowing, understanding, and following all rules of the game.

Coaches are responsible for the conduct of their players. Whenever a player exhibits unsportsmanlike behavior on their own, it is the responsibility of the coach to address the behavior and put an end to it.

Game officials (on and off ice) shall at all times be treated in a professional and courteous manner. It is the responsibility of the host coach to insure the safety and well-being of these officials in the host facility.

Maintain an open line of communication with your player’s parents. Explain the goals and objectives of the association and the team.

BAHA, consistent with USA Hockey’s Zero Tolerance Policy, requires all coaches maintain sportsmanlike behavior and preserve the educational atmosphere before, during and after all USA Hockey sanctioned games and BAHA events (practices, meetings, etc.). All coaches will abide by the standards contained in the Coaches Policy on Sports Conduct and Responsibilities. If the standards are violated, the coach may be subject to immediate suspension or dismissal as a coach. Coaching is a privilege and not a right. All coaches must adhere to the USA Hockey coaching education requirements as defined by VSAHA and USA Hockey. Coaches will be reimbursed the cost of one coach’s clinic, per year. Coaches officially assigned to a BAHA Team will be reimbursed the cost of USA Hockey Registration and age appropriate modules. Any coaches that have not completed the certification requirements by December 31st will not be eligible for reimbursement by BAHA. Coaching Responsibilities


Working with young people is both a responsibility and a privilege; the importance of this position of authority and leadership cannot be under estimated. The following is a list of examples of a coach’s responsibilities. Administrative Duties

All coaches will attend all meetings held by the BAHA Head Coach.

Conduct an organizational meeting for parents and players prior to the first game of the season.

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 play as a team.

Coaching/Mentoring

Encourage participation of every player in practices and games.

Emphasize good sportsmanship on and off the ice.

Stress the importance of teamwork

Treat all players equally

Stress FUN and skill development over winning

Provide each player with fair and equitable ice time

Adjust to personal needs and problems of players; be a good listener; never verbally or physically abuse a player or official; give all players the opportunity to improve their skills, gain confidence, and develop self-esteem; teach them the basics.

Encourage Healthy Lifestyles

Help players develop physically by learning skills, improving conditioning, develop good health habits, and avoiding injuries

Help players develop psychologically by learning to control their emotions and develop feelings of self worth

Be concerned with the overall development of your players; stress good healthy habits and clean living.

Use of tobacco products while in the presence of players is prohibited.

Consumption of alcoholic beverages prior to practices and/or games is prohibited.

Role Models

Lead by example – maintain a positive attitude towards referees, parent, players, and other coaches.

Be generous with your praise when it is deserved; be consistent and honest; be fair and just; do not criticize players publicly; learn to be a more effective communicator and coach; do not yell at players.

Coaches should never teach their players tactics or skills designed to circumvent the intent of the rulebook and the standards of fair play. The rules exist to protect players and provide a common standard by which final results will be determined.


Coaches should be sensitive to the impropriety of private meetings with on-ice officials before, during, or after the contest, without the presence of a representative of the opposing team.

Coaches wishing to express displeasure with an official’s conduct must follow the proper procedure, as established by VSAHA, and at no time will the media be used to criticize an official.

Coaching Selection Process The coaching committee will conduct the coaching selection process. The committee is made up of the Vice President of Travel, the Vice President of House, and the Director of Coaching. Interested candidates will submit indicate their interest to the Director of Coaching. The Director of Coaching will then compile a list of interested candidates. The Coaching Committee will meet to review the names of prospective coaches and develop a list of potential candidates, based on the criteria listed below. This will help expedite the process when the teams are selected after tryouts. No coaches will be assigned to a team until after the tryout process is complete. The Coaching Committee will select all head coaches. Head coaches will choose their staff in consultation with the coaching committee. Each team will have a Head Coach and no more than three assistant coaches (the number of assistant coaches will be at the discretion of the head coach). These will be the only coaches allowed on the bench during games. It is at the discretion of the Head Coach if they allow another coach on the ice during practice. Rostered assistant coaches have priority for games, over non-rostered coaches. The goal of the Coaching Committee is to select coaches who best exemplify the values of BAHA, VSAHA, and USA Hockey. Below are listed items of consideration during the process. These are meant as criteria guidelines, but they are not followed in any order nor are they weighted in any particular way. Examples of Selection Process Criteria:

USA Hockey Certification and level obtained

Years of coaching experience in BAHA (outside of BAHA and other sports)

Recommendation from other coaches, players, and/or parents

Participation in the growth and operation of the organization as a whole

Attitude and enthusiasm

Follow core values of the organization and USA Hockey

Disciplinary action history

Input obtained by committee members from other associations

Past coaching history in hockey


Knowledge of hockey

Love of the game

Desire to teach players skills for life (physical and psychological)

Organization and management skills

Honesty

Teaching skills

Listening skills

Coaching skills

Communication skills with parents, players, and other team officials

Desires and expectations of candidates

Ability of child(ren) to play at the level applied for

No candidate is guaranteed a coaching position from year to year. Not all coaching candidates will be selected to coach. Very often, especially at the Mite and Squirt level, there are more candidates than positions. Reminder, coaching is a privilege, not a right. The Coaching Committee will do its’ very best to select the best candidates for each team, with the interests of the organization and the players coming first. After the tryouts and team selection, the Coaching Committee will review the list of applicants and select the best candidates for each team.The coaches for each team will then be contacted by a member of the Coaching Committee to confirm their acceptance of the position. The Head Coach of each team will then receive the team roster and contact the players. The Coaching Committee will not contact candidates that are not selected and no specific information will be made public. Concerned candidates may contact the Director of Coaching or Vice President of Travel to discuss specific issues. Penalties and Violations – For Parents, Players and Coaches At their discretion, a coach may take immediate action against a player for Class I violations of this policy. A coach may bench the offending player during a game, or even ask them to leave the ice for the remaining duration of a practice or game. After the practice or game ends, the coach will discuss the incident with the player and the parents. The coach will be required to document the incident and provide a copy to the Discipline Committee within 5 days of the occurrence.


Class I violations carry a penalty of a minimum one (1) week suspension from all practices, games, and/or any team activity. The penalty will be determined by the disciplinary board. The suspension begins when the Discipline Committee has reached a decision on the issue; however the Discipline Committee has the authority to immediately suspend the offender until the investigation is complete. This time will count towards the overall suspension period. Suspensions that occur at the end of a season will carry over to the following season after the end of try-outs. Class I violations include, but are not limited to:

Use of obscene or vulgar language in a boisterous manner to anyone at anytime

Use of abusive or disrespectful language (teammates, coaches, parents, officials, other players, and spectators)

Taunting of players, coaches, officials, or spectators by means of baiting, or ridiculing

Addressing a coach, official, or volunteer in an unsportsmanlike, discourteous, or threatening manner

Active or passive refusal of a player to follow a direct, reasonable instruction from the coach with regard to games and practices

Questioning the coach(s) coaching during or after practices or games, in a disrespectful manner.

Questioning the referees during or after games.

Approaching a referee to voice a complaint; complaints should be directed to the coach

Class II violations carry a penalty of a minimum thirty (30) day suspension from all practices, games, and/or any team activity. The penalty will be determined by the disciplinary board. The suspension begins when the Discipline Committee has reached a decision on the issue; however the Discipline Committee has the authority to immediately suspend the offender until the investigation is complete. This time will count towards the overall suspension period. Suspensions that occur at the end of a season will carry over to the following season beginning immediately after try-outs. Class II violations include, but are not limited to:

Threats of physical violence towards any player, coach, parent, official, BAHA volunteer, or spectator

Throwing of any object in the spectators viewing area, players bench, penalty box, in the locker room, or on the ice surface, that in any manner creates a safety hazard

Intentional shoving or striking another player, coach, or official during any BAHA functions, whether in the locker room, on the ice, or at any time the team is getting together.

Public disparagement of other members (allegations found to be false)

Repeat Class I violations


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

Use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs at the arena or official team function is not permitted. Parents, players and coaches are expected to represent BAHA at any team functions.

Physical abuse of a player, coach, parent, official, BAHA volunteer, or spectator

Activities that violate State or Federal Laws which create a safety risk to any member of the organization

Repeat Class II violations Player/Parent Notification Players and parents will be informed of this Policy on Sports Conduct before the start of the season. Parents/guardians are required to acknowledge (by signature) that they received a copy of the Policy before their child may participate in USA Hockey sanctioned games. Right to Appeal Any parent, player or coach has the right to appeal a decision of the Discipline Committee. The appeal is to be made in writing to the BAHA Board within 10 days of the decision rendered by the Discipline Committee. The BAHA Board of Directors (elected and appointed) will render a decision regarding the appeal, and once rendered, is final. Reporting The President of the BAHA organization will deliver an annual report to the organization at the Annual Meeting stating such particulars as number of Policy incidents, sanctions levied, and policies pursued


Coaching Education Program

The most up to date program information can be found on the VSAHA website:

www.vthockey.org

Officiating Seminars

The most up to date program information can be found on the VSAHA website:

www.vthockey.org

http://www.vthockey.org/

http://www.vthockey.org/

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