Please find attached below links to the relevant SSHA policies.
The purpose of this policy is to define the player divisions, outline the rules and officiating procedures, and detail the team selection and balancing process. It specifies the age groups for different divisions (U8, U10, U12, U14, U18). The policy also states that no league standings or scores will be kept for the younger divisions (U8 and U10), and that teams will be balanced as equally as possible.
Registration and Refund Policy
This policy defines the league's registration process, including "Closed" and "Open" registration windows, and outlines the policy for team sizes. It also details the refund process for players who withdraw from the league, with specific deadlines and associated administration fees. Refunds may be prorated for injuries after a certain date, provided medical documentation is submitted. The policy also notes the refund process for players on a waiting list who do not get placed on a team.
Code of Conduct and Ethics Policy
The objective of this policy is to create a safe and positive environment by ensuring individuals are aware of the expectations for appropriate behavior that align with the Organization's core values. The policy applies to an individual's conduct during and, in some cases, outside of Organization activities and events. It also prohibits discriminatory practices and is committed to an environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect.
Vulnerable Sector Check Policy
The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of players by requiring a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) and a Criminal Offence Declaration Form (CODF) from all coaches, on-ice assistants, referees, convenors, and any volunteer aged 18 or older who works directly with the players. A VSC must be completed every three years, and a CODF must be completed annually. The policy also requires that any charges or convictions be reported immediately to the SSHA, with failure to do so potentially resulting in immediate suspension or expulsion.
This policy is intended to provide guidance on identifying the signs and symptoms of a concussion, outline the protocol to follow if a concussion is suspected, and detail the return-to-play guidelines. The Stanley Stick Hockey Association is committed to ensuring the safety of its hockey participants and believes that preventing concussions is crucial to protecting their health. The policy also notes that only a physician can provide a clinical diagnosis of a concussion.
The purpose of this policy is to outline guidelines for dressing room use, including rules for parental access, the requirement for two adults to be present when players under 18 are in the room, and protocols for co-ed dressing rooms. For U14 and U18 divisions, parents are generally not permitted in the dressing rooms, with exceptions for medical emergencies or by coach invitation. It also sets rules for the use of portable electronic devices.
League Capture Area and Restrictions Policy
This policy defines the geographic area from which the league accepts registrations. It states that the SSHA will accept players living within the City of Guelph, with up to 10% of the league coming from adjacent regions. The policy also restricts players from being active in another similar organized hockey or ringette league at the same time.
Coaching and Coach Development Policy
This policy defines the player divisions within the league and outlines the procedures for rules, officiating, scoring, standings, and team selection. It also sets requirements for coaches, such as wearing a CSA-approved helmet at all times on the ice, completing a coaching application, having a successful Vulnerable Sector Check, and completing the Respect in Sport program. The policy also addresses the structure of on-ice sessions, player uniforms, and equipment.
Scheduling, Tournaments, and Non-Scheduled Activities Policy
This policy defines the responsibilities for scheduling the league's activities, including those outside of the regular league-organized events. It states that no SSHA team is permitted to enter tournaments or play games not on the master schedule without prior written approval from the Executive Committee. For non-scheduled activities, such as additional practice time, coaches must obtain written permission from the Board of Directors before booking, and the Organization is not responsible for any associated costs.
Discipline and Complaints Policy
The purpose of this policy is to address non-compliance with the Organization's policies, bylaws, rules, regulations, and Code of Conduct and Ethics. The policy applies to all individuals and to matters that may arise during or outside of the Organization's activities and events. Sanctions for non-compliance can include a written or verbal reprimand, suspension, or expulsion from the Organization.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy
The objective of this policy is to create an inclusive and welcoming culture for all members of the SSHA. The policy commits to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and human rights, and ensures that every member has the right to be treated with respect and equality. It prohibits discrimination and harassment based on factors such as race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability.
This policy details how the Stanley Stick Hockey Association handles the collection, use, protection, and disposal of personal information. The objective is to recognize and protect the right to privacy for all individuals within the organization. The policy is based on the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and establishes that a Privacy Officer is responsible for its implementation.
The purpose of this policy is to ensure equal access and participation for people with disabilities, and to treat them with dignity and independence. Although the SSHA has fewer than 20 employees and is not required by Regulation 191/11 to have a written accessibility policy, it has created this policy as a guide for its members. The policy also outlines the use of assistive devices, service animals, and support persons.
SSHA is currently in the process of updating all policies into a standard format. Please see the following policies in the legacy formats. In case of disagreement between the policies above and those below on this page, the policies above will prevail.
The SSHA scoring policy has been developed to help increase overall player enjoyment of the game while at the same time maintaining the core values that are Stanley Stick Hockey.
In the event of a tie game during any tournament play the SSHA will follow this policy to determine the game winner.
This policy outlines the leagues objectives around building a strong goalie program within our league.
This policy outlines the league's policies around providing discounts to goalies in U10 and above.