Code of Conduct

As an Elk River Player, I understand that it is a privilege, not a right, to play youth hockey.

As an Elk River Player, I understand that sportsmanship, teamwork and fair play are essential to the sport of hockey and are the most important skills that I can possibly gain from being involved in youth hockey.

The intent of this policy is to follow the USA Hockey Zero Tolerance Policy and adhere to:

1. To take pride in their team and contribute to the team’s unity. To adhere strictly to the coach’s rules and be supportive of the coach’s practice plans, game plans, and other decisions. To participate in all games and practices unless there is a compelling reason for missing. To notify the coach or manager in advance when they must miss. A reason such as religion class, school activity, illness, etc. must also be given. To be at the rink by the appointed time as set by the coach.
2. Hockey is recognized as a team sport; as such the interests of the team shall take precedence over individual exploits.
3. No player shall criticize another teammate’s play. No player shall criticize referees, coaches or opposing players. The only individuals who may speak to officials are the coaches and /or designated captains under the instructions of their coaches.
4. All players are expected to conduct themselves in a respectable manner. Destructive or delinquent behavior, during or after a game or practice, will not be tolerated. To be attentive when coaches explain practices drills, game strategies, or passes along other information or instructions.
5. No attempt should be made to deliberately injure another player(s). Any player incurring a MATCH penalty for “Attempt to Injure” or other offense deemed equally serious by the coach shall be subject to suspension beyond the USA HOCKEY rules as deemed appropriate by the ERYHA Board. The level director will be notified as soon as possible of the incident. 6. All players will adhere to the ERYHA policies regarding Substance Use and Weapons.

There will be ZERO tolerance of abusive behavior. Harassment, obscene language or gestures, and other behavior deemed to be abusive directed toward coaches, referees, minor officials, opponents, teammates, spectators or association officials will not be tolerated and will have consequences.

Any ERYHA member witnessing or involved in a violation of any portion of the ERYHA Player Code of Conduct can bring the issue forward, after following the 24-hour rule, to the ERYHA Board of Directors by emailing the Level Director, President and/or the Vice President. Issues can also be brought to the ERYHA Board of Directors by submitting a grievance online.

As an Elk River Player, I understand that my behavior has consequences and sometimes those consequences can be very serious. I understand that Elk River Youth Hockey follows the rules set by USA Hockey, Minnesota Hockey and District 10 and that in the case where more serious consequences arise from my behavior, Elk River Youth Hockey Association may be required to follow Minnesota Hockey Article 6 protocols to help resolve certain situations.

I agree to treat my fellow teammates, ERYHA coaches, ERYHA representatives, referees and other association members with respect in my participation on an ERYHA team by following this Code of Conduct. 

Updated August 2020