Operations & Policies

Trails West History

Trails West Hockey Association was registered as a Society in July 1980.

All minor hockey association in Calgary are governed by Hockey Calgary.  Hockey Calgary is governed by Hockey Alberta, which is governed by Hockey Canada.

Our 'Home Ice' is Flames Community Arenas.  Trails West shares ownership of this facility with Canadian Forces Calgary, Glenlake Hockey Association, Elbow Park Group, Mount Royal University, South Calgary Community Association, Lakeview Community Association and North Glenmore Park Community Association.  The facility is administered and operated by South West Arena Society (SWAS).

We are a volunteer driven, not-for-profit organization.  In order to contact us, please refer to our list of board directors, members and volunteers, then choose who best to email.  If you are unsure, please reach out to Courtney Dreger, our Administrator.

TWHA Bylaws

Click here to view the TWHA Bylaws.

TWHA Code of Conduct

Updated: June 2023

PLAYER:

I understand that my goal as a player/participant in the TWHA is to enjoy the game, have fun, improve my hockey skills, abide by the rules, and promote respectful behavior. My participation in TWHA activities covers the entire duration of any team-organized activity, starting from my arrival at the parking lot and facility entrance, and continuing until I leave the dressing room, the facility's lobby, and the parking lot after games, practices, or other team activities.

 

As part of my participation in TWHA activities, I agree to such as, but not limited to the following:

  1. Sportsmanship and Excellence:
    • I will compete to the best of my abilities, display sportsmanship, and strive for both individual and team excellence, following the Hockey Canada Playing Rules
  2. Respect for Coaches, Officials, and Rink Personnel:
    • I will use appropriate language and consistently act with respect toward my coaches, officials, and rink personnel.
    • I expect my parents/guardians and other invited spectators to adhere to this code as well.
  3. Responsible Conduct:
    • I will not use offensive language, make gestures, or behave in any manner that would bring discredit upon myself, my teammates, my coaches, or my family.
    • I will refrain from engaging in attacks or any behavior that could intentionally harm a teammate, coach, or spectator.
    • I will neither consume nor possess vaping or tobacco products, drugs, or alcoholic beverages.
  4. Lawful Behavior:
    • Any behavior found to be unlawful or criminal in nature will be immediately reported to the appropriate authorities.
  5. Respect for Facilities and Staff:
    • I will treat the facilities where I play, train, or stay during road trips, as well as the staff responsible for managing them, with respect.
    • I understand that any damages or vandalism will not be tolerated, and deliberate damage will be repaired or replaced at the expense of the offender.

 

I acknowledge that playing hockey for the TWHA is a privilege. I commit to always conducting myself in a positive manner that reflects well upon my teammates, coaches, and family.

 

The TWHA Social Media, Bullying and Harassment Policies govern certain aspects of the Code of Conduct. The failure by any TWHA player or member to adhere to this Code of Conduct or the mentioned policies will be considered in violation of the TWHA Code of Conduct may result in investigation and potential disciplinary action.

 

PARENT/GUARDIAN:

I have discussed the above Code of Conduct with my child and other members of our family unit, and we agree that he or she will abide by the TWHA Code of Conduct at all times. As a parent/guardian I also agree that the Code of Conduct governs my behavior, as well as anybody I invite, inside and outside the ice rink.  I agree to such as, but not limited to the following:

  • I recognize the importance of the volunteer coaches and will communicate with them in an appropriate manner. The same holds true for on ice officials, league representatives, team officials, all Trails West volunteers, and my personal behavior in the rink, during games and practices, and outside the rink.
  • I will follow the 24-hour rule prior to communicating with coaches and team officials.
  • I will display excellent sportsmanship/behavior during practices and games, by not taunting, or pounding on the glass. I will always use appropriate language. I will not yell at or make inappropriate gestures toward the players, fans, coaches, officials, or rink employees.
  • I understand that my inability to meet this code of conduct may result in a hearing with the TWHA disciplinary committee and may result in a written warning, suspension from any practice/game or expulsion from the association depending on the severity of the violation.

 

COMMUNICATION EXPECTATIONS, PROTOCOLS & PATHWAYS:

  1. 24-Hour cooling off period is mandatory prior to contacting team representative, league, and association representative.
  2. Communication should be:
    • a)  Respectful
    • b)  Courteous
    • c)  Non-Confrontational and positive in nature
    • d)  Pertinent based on team rules and/or TWHA guidelines.
    • e)  Contain contact information otherwise the communication will not be addressed or responded to.
  1. Discipline Procedure and Process Pathway
    • a)  Respect in Sport and the TWHA code of conduct will be applied jointly when dealing with these circumstances.
    • b)  The TWHA Reporting of Misconduct and Discipline Policy will be followed for investigating complaints and reported Code of Conduct violations.
    • c)  Complaints should follow the following Pathway:

Complainant

Team Manager

Age Group Coordinators

Age Group Vice President

President

I fully understand that if I as a parent/guardian were to violate the Code of Conduct policy, I may also jeopardize my player’s eligibility to continue to play hockey in the TWHA.

I will ensure my player is at all scheduled team events (e.g., Practices, games etc.); where there is a conflict, I will notify the designated team official(s) 24 hours prior the event (illness and emergencies are examples where this would not be applicable).

TWHA Bullying and Harassment Policy

Updated June 2023

INTRODUCTION

Trails West Hockey Association (TWHA) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all participants, including athletes, coaches, volunteers, officials, and spectators. Bullying and harassment have no place in our organization and will not be tolerated. Any form of bullying or harassment during any TWHA activity or program is considered a violation of our Code of Conduct, will be investigated and subject to discipline as per the TWHA Reporting of Misconduct and Discipline Policy. We intend to eradicate harassing or bullying behaviour by responding promptly and informally to minor incidents of harassment or bullying and following TWHA guidelines for reporting or responding to more serious complaints of harassment or bullying. This policy outlines our commitment to preventing and addressing bullying and harassment incidents within TWHA.

 

DEFINITIONS

  1. Bullying: Bullying refers to any unwanted aggressive behavior, whether it is physical, verbal, or psychological, which is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate an individual or group.
  2. Harassment: Harassment refers to any unwanted conduct based on an individual's race, color, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic, which has the purpose or effect of violating the dignity of a person and creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment.
  3. Emotional Abuse: Emotional abuse is a chronic attack on a child's self-esteem; it is psychologically destructive behaviour by a person in a position of power, authority or trust. It can take the form of name-calling, threatening, ridiculing, berating, intimidating, isolating, hazing or ignoring the child's needs.
  4. Physical Abuse: Physical abuse is when a person in a position of power or trust purposefully injures or threatens to injure a child or youth. This may take the form of slapping, hitting, shaking, kicking, pulling hair or ears, throwing, shoving, grabbing, hazing or excessive exercise as a form of punishment.
  5. Neglect: Neglect is chronic inattention to the basic necessities of life. This may occur in hockey when injuries are not adequately treated or players are made to play with injuries, equipment is inadequate or unsafe, no-one intervenes when team members are persistently harassing another player, or road trips are not properly supervised.
  6. Sexual Abuse: Sexual abuse is when a young person is used by an older child, adolescent or adult for his or her own sexual stimulation or gratification.

 

SCOPE

This policy applies to all individuals involved in the activities of TWHA, including but not limited to TWHA Members, players, coaches, volunteers, parents, officials, and administrators. It covers all activities and events organized or sanctioned by TWHA, from first arrival at the parking lot of the event to departure.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. TWHA is responsible for implementing and enforcing this policy, ensuring that all participants are aware of their rights and obligations, and our players are provided an inclusive environment free of bullying and harassment.
  2. Coaches and team officials are responsible for promoting a positive and respectful environment, intervening immediately when bullying or harassment occurs, and reporting incidents to TWHA.
  3. Athletes are responsible for creating an inclusive team environment, treating others with respect, reporting incidents of bullying or harassment, and cooperating in investigations.
  4. Parents, guardians, and spectators are responsible for promoting a safe, supportive atmosphere, recognizing and reporting incidents of bullying or harassment and encouraging their children to report any such incidents.

 

PROHIBITED CONDUCT

  1. Examples of bullying include, but are not limited to:
  • Threats of or actual physical aggression or assault
  • Verbal abuse, insults, or name-calling
  • Spreading rumors or malicious gossip
  • Blaming the target for mistakes or losses
  • Making unreasonable demands related to performance
  • Threats to remove or restrict opportunities or privileges
  • Exclusion or isolation of individuals
  • Intentionally damaging or stealing personal property
  • Condescending, patronizing, threatening or punishing actions
  • Hazing rituals
  • Cyberbullying or harassment through electronic means
  1. Examples of harassment include, but are not limited to:
  • Offensive or derogatory comments or jokes
  • Unwanted physical contact or gestures
  • Displaying or distributing offensive materials
  • Sexual advances, requests, or comments
  • Persistent, unwanted attention or stalking
  • Unwelcome jokes, innuendo or teasing about a person's body, looks, race, sexual orientation etc.
  • Practical jokes which cause awkwardness or embarrassment
  • Online harassment or trolling

 

RESPONSE

It is the position of Trails West that harassment and bullying cannot and should not be tolerated in any environment, including hockey. Both harassment and bullying are unacceptable and harmful. Trails West recognizes the serious negative impact of all types of harassment and bullying on personal dignity, individual and group development and performance, enjoyment of the game and in some cases, personal safety. At the same time, Trails West recognizes that not all incidents of harassment and bullying are equally serious in their consequences. Both harassment and bullying cover a wide spectrum of behaviors, and the response to both must be equally broad in range, appropriate to the behavior in question and capable of providing a constructive remedy. There must be no summary justice or hasty punishment.

 

The process of investigation and settlement of any complaint of harassment or bullying must be fair to all parties, allowing adequate opportunity for the presentation of a response to the allegations. Minor incidents of harassment or bullying should be corrected promptly and informally at the team level, if possible, taking a constructive approach and with the goal of bringing about a change in negative attitudes and behavior. More serious incidents should be dealt with more formally and reported to am Age Group Coordinator or any TWHA Board Member as per the reporting process below. All allegations or complaints should be handled in a timely, sensitive, responsible and confidential manner. There should be no tolerance of reprisals taken against any party to a complaint. The names of parties and the circumstances of the complaint will be kept confidential except where disclosure is necessary for the purposes of investigation or taking disciplinary measures.

 

REPORTING

  1. Any individual who experiences or witnesses bullying or harassment should report the incident promptly to a coach, team official, or TWHA representative.
  2. Reports should be made in writing, providing as much detail as possible about the incident, including the date, time, location, and individuals involved. Anonymous reports will be accepted but may limit the organization's ability to fully investigate and address the issue.
  3. TWHA will respond to all allegations promptly, fairly, and confidentially. Every effort will be made to protect the privacy and confidentiality of those involved, except where disclosure is necessary for the purposes of investigation or legal obligations.
  4. The TWHA Reporting of Misconduct and Discipline Policy will be followed for investigation and reporting.
  5. Anyone making a complaint which is found to be clearly unfounded, false, malicious or frivolous may also be subject to discipline.
  6. Any complaint which is found to be unlawful or criminal nature shall be escalated to the proper authorities immediately.

 

PROCESS AND PROCEDURE

TWHA Directors shall have the authority to monitor and enforce this Bullying and Harassment Policy.

 

The failure of any TWHA player or member to adhere to this Policy shall be considered a violation of the TWHA Code of Conduct, and will be subject to investigation and potential disciplinary action for the alleged misconduct, as per the TWHA Reporting of Misconduct and Discipline Policy.

TWHA REPORTING OF MISCONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE POLICY

Updated June 2023

PURPOSE

Trails West Hockey Association is committed to maintaining a positive and respectful environment for all participants involved in our minor sports organization. This Discipline Policy outlines the expectations, procedures, and consequences related to behavior that violates the TWHA Code of Conduct or policies.

 

This policy will outline the process for reporting a complaint or alleged misconduct, the investigation of formal complaints, assignment of discipline and appeal process.

 

SCOPE

This policy applies to all Trails West players, members, volunteers, directors or paid contractors. It applies to violation of the following:

  • TWHA Code of Conduct
  • TWHA Bullying and Harassment Policy
  • TWHA Social Media Policy
  • Any other situation that threatens the mental or physical well being of our athletes or members

 

Any acts or behaviour in contravention of the above policies is considered a “violation of conduct” and reported cases are “alleged violation of conduct” until investigated and deemed to be a violation through the procedures outlined within.

 

Note: For convenience in this policy the term “Complainant” refers to the person who experiences a violation of TWHA policy, even though not all persons who experience harassment or bullying will make a formal complaint. The term “Respondent” refers to the person against whom a complaint is made.

 

REPORTING PROCEDURES

This policy does not prevent an appropriate person having authority from taking immediate, informal, corrective disciplinary action in response to behaviour that, in their view, constitutes a minor incident of harassment or bullying. Minor instances will typically be handled at a team level but may also be reported to the age group coordinator, Vice-President of Operations, or any Trails West Board member.

 

A person who experiences harassment or bullying is encouraged to make it known to the alleged harasser or bully that the behavior is unwelcome, offensive and contrary to the policies of Trails West. Any individual who witnesses or experiences behavior that violates the code of conduct or policies should report the incident promptly to a coach, team official, or TWHA Official. Reports should be made in writing, providing as much detail as possible, including the date, time, location, and individuals involved.For the purposes of this Policy, an “Official” is any Trails West Board Member or Age Group Coordinator.

 

Once contacted by a Complainant, the role of the Official is to serve in a neutral, unbiased capacity in receiving the complaint and, where appropriate, assist in the informal resolution of the situation. If the Official considers that he or she is unable to act in this capacity, the Complainant will be referred to another suitable Official.

 

Once a complaint is received the Official will listen to the complaint and receive the information to support the claim. The Official will explain the Trails West procedure and outline the remedies available to the complainant. The Official will document the meeting.

If the action is deemed to be unlawful/criminal in nature by the official, then the appropriate law enforcement authorities will be contacted immediately and the matter will be relinquished to those authorities for primary investigation.

 

After the initial meeting with the Complainant, the Official can make the following determinations:

  1. It may be determined by the Official that the conduct does not constitute sufficient TWHA Code of Conduct violation, in which case the matter will be closed;
  2. It may be decided that the alleged conduct constitutes Code of Conduct violation.

 

If so, the Complainant can choose to pursue one or both of the following options:

  1. The Complainant may decide to pursue an informal resolution of the complaint, in which case a mediator agreed upon by both the Complainant and the Respondent will assist the two parties to negotiate or mediate an acceptable resolution of the complaint;
  2. If the Complainant chose not to pursue Mediation with the Respondent, or if the Mediation was unable to produce an acceptable resolution, the Complainant may decide to file a formal written complaint, in which case the Official will receive the written complaint and will advise the President of Trails West (“President”) or his/her designate, who will notify the Chair of the Discipline Committee (“Chair”).
  3. The Chair will assemble a Discipline Committee of at least three (3), including at least one (1) TWHA Director to conduct an investigation of the complaint. The Discipline Committee should not be associated with the team related to the Complainant or Respondent.

 

The Respondent shall be provided with a copy of the complaint if the alleged conduct constitutes violation of TWHA Code of Conduct.

 

INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE

The Discipline Committee will conduct an initial investigation of the complaint with all submitted evidence in a timely manner. At the conclusion of the initial investigation the Chair will submit a preliminary report to the President, or designate, which will include a recommendation that either:

  1. No further action be taken because the complaint is unfounded, or the conduct has failed to violate the Code of Conduct to a necessary degree.
  2. The complaint has merit and should proceed to detailed investigation.

 

Within 10 business days of receiving the preliminary report of the Chair that recommends that there be a detailed investigation, the Discipline Committee should interview the Complainent, the Respondent and any witnesses, including parents or guardians , if minors. The Panel may request that any individuals interviewed as part of the formal investigation to the alleged incident be interviewed and/or submit written evidence.

  1. Decisions by the Discipline Committee shall be by majority vote.
  2. In the event that one of the Discipline Committee is unable or unwilling to continue with the hearing, the matter will be concluded by the remaining two Committee members who shall make their decision unanimously;
  3. Should a unanimous decision not be arrived at by the remaining Discipline Committee members, the matter will be referred to a newly constituted Committee;
  4. Once appointed, the revised Discipline Committee has the authority to abridge or extend timelines associated with all aspects of the investigation;
  5. The Complainant and Respondent shall each receive a copy of the Detailed Investigation outcome (Summary Report);

 

DECISION

Whenever possible, discipline should align with suspensions for Hockey Canada infractions including those for on-ice Maltreatment under Rule 11.4

Within 10 business days of the initiation of the detailed investigation, the Discipline Committee will deliver its written Decision to the President or designate. This Decision will contain:

  1. A summary of the relevant facts;
  2. A determination as to whether the acts complained of constitute TWHA Code of Conduct violation as defined in this policy;
  3. Disciplinary action against the Respondent, if the acts constitute Code of Conduct violation.

 

In addition, the decision may contain measures to remedy or mitigate the harm or loss suffered by the Complainant based on the Panel’s evaluation if the acts constitute harassment or bullying.

 

If the Panel determines that the allegations are false, vexatious, retaliatory or frivolous, its report may direct that there be disciplinary sanctions against the Complainant.

 

Unless the Panel decides otherwise, any disciplinary sanctions applied shall take effect immediately.

 

The decision of the Panel will be final and binding upon the Complainant, the Respondent and Trails West. Appeals to this process must be carried out according to the process outlined below.

 

APPEALS

Both the Complainant and the Respondent shall have the right to appeal the decision of the Discipline Committee. A notice of intention to appeal, along with the grounds for appeal, must be provided to the President of Trails West within 72 hours of receipt of the Summary Report. The notice must include the grounds upon which the decision is being appealed. Appeals may only be made on the following grounds:

  1. The investigation was conducted in an unfair or biased manner contrary to the rules of natural justice.
  2. Panel members did not follow the procedure set out in this policy
  3. Members of the Panel were biased or acted in an unfair manner.
  4. Panel members reached a decision which could not be supported by the evidence.
  5. Panel members reached a decision which was grossly unfair or unreasonable.

 

The appeal shall be heard by an Appeal Board appointed by the Chairman of Trails West. The other party will be notified if a notice of appeal is received. They will be provided with the grounds of the appeal and the opportunity to submit their response to the notice of appeal.

 

The Appeal Board will hold a hearing into the complaint within 10 business days of its appointment. The Appeal Board has discretion to govern the hearing in the manner it deems appropriate, provided that it adheres to the guidelines noted. The decision of the Appeal Board will be based on a review of the documentation regarding the complaint, including the statements of the Complainant and Respondent, the report of the Discipline Committee, the Summary Report and the notice of appeal. In deciding the Appeal, the Appeal Board may uphold the decision of the Panel, reverse the decision of the Panel and/or modify any of the Panel’s recommendations for disciplinary action or remedial measures. The decision of the Appeal Board shall be final and binding.

 

REHABILITATION AND CLOSURE

TWHA recognizes the importance of support and rehabilitation for individuals who have engaged in inappropriate behavior. The organization may provide educational programs, or other resources to help individuals and stakeholders in the situation (e.g., coaches) understand the impact of their actions, learn from their mistakes, and promote positive behavioral changes.

 

The President of Trails West shall keep a secure record of the Summary Report and any appeal proceedings. The record shall contain all relevant documents including but not limited to:

  1. A copy of the original complaint and report
  2. Responses to the complaint
  3. Terms of reference of the investigator
  4. Interim measures (if any)
  5. Witness statements
  6. Investigator’s report
  7. Mediated solution (signed agreement)
  8. Decision of the Panel
  9. Remedies or sanctions imposed (if any)
  10. Any other related correspondence
  11. Any appeal(s) (if any)

 

TWHA SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

NEW: June 2023

PURPOSE

The purpose of this social media policy is to establish guidelines for the appropriate and responsible use of social media platforms by members, players, coaches, volunteers, and stakeholders associated with the Trails West Hockey Association (TWHA). The failure of any TWHA player or member to adhere to this Social Media Policy are considered in violation of the TWHA Code of Conduct, and shall be subject to investigation and potential disciplinary action.

This policy aims to ensure the safety, well-being, and positive reputation of the organization and its participants while promoting respectful online interactions.

SCOPE

This policy applies to all individuals involved in the activities of TWHA, including but not limited to TWHA Members, players, coaches, volunteers, parents, officials, and administrators. It encompasses all forms of social media, including websites, blogs, social networking sites, messaging apps, forums, and any other online platforms.

TWHA APPROACH

TWHA maintains official social media accounts on major platforms, managed exclusively by our Social Media Coordinator. The objectives of TWHA's social media presence are as follows:

1. Augment communication of critical dates and events to the membership.
2. Celebrate achievements and success of TWHA teams and individual athletes. 3. Promote a sense of community for TWHA members and athletes.

Creating an official or unofficial TWHA social media presence using the organization's trademarks or name requires prior approval from TWHA. TWHA's intellectual property includes, but is not limited to, trademarks, logos, slogans, and imagery posted directly on TWHA's official social media sites or website. No individual may imply they are authorized to speak on behalf of TWHA without official authorization from the TWHA Board.

POLICY STATEMENT

For the purpose of this policy, social media encompasses all publicly available online media and communications platforms. This includes internal and external websites, blogs, online social networks, wikis, video and photo sharing sites, as well as other forms of personal online publishing and discourse. Additionally, policies regarding text messaging, email, and individual telephonic communications are covered under this policy.

TWHA acknowledges that players and members utilize social media positively within TWHA official social media channels and also with team and related social group activities. We have established guidelines and boundaries for the safe and positive use of social media platforms in all TWHA activities.

Respectful conduct is expected from all TWHA members. This policy aims to foster a culture of openness, trust, and integrity when utilizing social media and other online platforms. It provides practical guidance to ensure all parties can benefit from social media while minimizing potential risks and protecting those involved.

Note: This policy does not apply to personal use of social media unrelated to TWHA, where there is no reference to TWHA or its business, competitions, teams, participants, services, events, sponsors, members, or reputation.

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APPROVED: [June 23, 2023]

However, any misuse on social media by individuals that does not directly refer to TWHA or registered teams may still be regulated by other TWHA policies, rules, or regulations.

PRINCIPLES

TWHA is committed to promoting respectful behavior and conduct both on and off the ice. We strive to eliminate all forms of social media misconduct, including discrimination, harassment, bullying, or offensive language based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

All TWHA members, players, volunteers, and contractors shall abide by the following guidelines in the use of social media, and contravention of these guidelines is considered a violation of the TWHA Code of Conduct:

1. Use of social media for bullying, harassment, intimidation, or threats of any type is prohibited.
2. No pictures, videos, audio, or any other type of media may be captured in any form from within the

dressing room.
3. Do not post photographs, videos, or comments promoting negative influences and dangerous or criminal

behavior, including but not limited to: violence, firearms, racism, sexism, drug use, alcohol abuse,

underage alcohol use, public intoxication, and sexual exploitation.
4. Do not make negative or derogatory comments or statements deemed detrimental to the welfare of any

individual or group.
5. Social media should not be used to divulge confidential information or any other matter of a sensitive

nature relating to individuals or groups.
6. Social media may not be used for undertaking activity that contradicts the current policies of TWHA. 7. Do not post complaints about referees, league officials, opposition players, coaches, or fans on social

media.
8. Social media should not be used for communication to other teams (including other TWHA teams),

players, coaches, or spectators with any form of harassment, bullying, or threats against the team or

individuals associated with the team.
9. Do not publish pictures or personal information about players, TWHA Members, or team staff without

their prior consent.

If an error is made while posting on social media, be upfront about the mistake and address it quickly. If modifying a previous post, the edit should be clearly noted. If someone accuses TWHA of posting something improper (such as their copyrighted material or a defamatory comment about them), address it promptly and appropriately, and if necessary, seek legal advice.

TWHA's preference is to educate, inform, and help develop positive habits when unacceptable or inappropriate comments or posts occur on social media channels. When required, disciplinary action or sanctions will be assessed toward any individual violating the above guidelines. Depending on the nature of the infraction, discipline may be assigned based on the TWHA Reporting of Misconduct and Discipline Policy, or the incident may be reported to the Calgary Police Service or other authorities.

PROCESS AND PROCEDURE

The policy outlines behavior over social media that may result in disciplinary action by TWHA at the discretion of the Disciplinary Committee. In addition to the TWHA Social Media Rules set out above, teams may establish team- specific rules for social media, provided the rules do not derogate from the TWHA Social Media Policy.

TWHA Directors shall have the authority to monitor and enforce this Social Media Policy. TWHA Directors, Social Media Coordinator, and Administrator shall have the authority to remove any inappropriate or offensive

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comments from official TWHA sites and to block any individual or organization from posting on any official TWHA social media platform if they determine, in their sole discretion, that it is necessary.

The failure of any TWHA player or member to adhere to this Social Media Policy shall be considered a violation of the TWHA Code of Conduct, and shall be subject to investigation and potential disciplinary action, as per the TWHA Reporting of Misconduct and Discipline Policy.

The expected process for any individual member or player to manage a case of social media misconduct is as follows:

  1. Screenshot and save any post or or posted media, so evidence is available for review in TWHA discipline process
  2. Attempt to de-escalate or resolve the situation if possible.
  3. If responding, be courteous and accommodating.
  4. Do not feel obligated to respond further in any unwanted post or thread.
  5. Report the incident with any supporting evidence to the appropriate TWHA authority for review andaction.

APPROVED: [June 23, 2023]

Social Media Interaction Guidelines Between Teammates

It can be a positive, team-building enabler for teams to establish "group chats" that allow players to chat while away from team functions. The key elements to having positive and inclusive team chats are as follows:

1. Parental awareness of the group chat with full access to the chat for periodic review of content.
2. Invite ALL team members to join the chat
3. Be respectful of team members who decline to participate in group chats and do not discuss any team

members who declined participation on the chat
4. Do not discuss anything on the chat that you would not say in the dressing room in front of coaches or

while at a team function with all parents present.

Social Media Interaction Guidelines Between Players, Coaches and other Team Volunteers

Any social media interaction between an adult member or volunteer and a minor participant (player) should be maintained on the official team platform assigned by the association (TeamSnap). Any contact outside TeamSnap should be limited to email, text (or related direct messaging), and be related to specific logistics of team functions, including practice times, cancellations, schedules, etc. Coaches should strive to include another adult in messages whenever possible.

  1. Coaches and team representatives should only use text messages and email for issues that are hockey-related, and all communications should include a parent or guardian copied on the message.
  2. There should be no private messages and no one-on-one direct contact through any social media chat functions, direct messaging, chats, instant messaging, or any other platform.

Concussion Protocol

The Hockey Canada Concussion Protocol is effective immediately and must be enforced and followed by all minor hockey teams in Canada. This protocol is not optional and failure to follow it could have serious consequences so be sure to read this policy carefully and understand it.

Trails West is implementing this protocol at the team level. This means that coaches need to monitor players during games and parents following games if you suspect a concussion may have occurred.

Any player showing symptoms of a concussion or a suspected concussion must be removed from play. If the player is diagnosed as having a concussion or shows concussion symptoms they can not return to play until the 6 step Return to Play process has been implemented fully and the Concussion Follow Up and Communication Form (Appendix 2) has been completed and signed.

The player must be cleared by a Medical Doctor prior to returning to play. Although other healthcare professionals treat concussions and may have cleared players in the past, the protocol is very specific in requiring clearance by a Physician. Please refer to the FAQs for more information.

Please also note that if a player is suspected to have suffered a concussion and is removed from play, but then cleared as being concussion free after their initial assessment by a physician, they are not required to complete the six step protocol. However, the physician must still sign a Medical Clearance Note to return that player to play immediately.

Trails West is requiring teams to document all concussions and suspected concussions. Managers are required to retain any forms and documentation until the end of the current hockey season, and all paperwork is then to be returned to the parents of the player involved. At this time it becomes the family’s responsibility to retain or file the documentation according to their own judgement. Trails West will not be formally tracking concussions or keeping any paperwork once the current season is complete, this is each individual family’s responsibility.

If TWHA members have any questions or concerns after reviewing the documentation and web links we encourage you to reach out to Hockey Canada for further clarification.

Grievances

Specific Grievances

If you have a grievance related to the Evaluations Process, please first carefully review the Evaluations Guidelines, then complete the grievance form found under Evaluations.

If you have a specific issue with a specific individual within TWHA:

  • First, speak directly to the person with whom you have an issue. With situations that have, or potentially have strong emotions, wait 24 hours before engaging in communication and consider including your team manager in the conversation.
  • If there is no resolution, and if you haven’t done so already, speak with your team manager. If unable to resolve at that level, then
  • speak with the appropriate VP of Operations (see Board of Directors/Volunteers). If still unresolved, then
  • speak with the President, then if still unresolved
  • speak with the Chairman. If unable to resolve at that point, then
  • a TWHA Grievance Committee will be formed and will determine appropriate action.

If your grievance is with someone outside of TWHA (referee, opposing coach, Hockey Calgary, etc..)

  • Speak with your Team Manager, who will
  • speak with the appropriate Age Coordinator, who will
  • speak with the appropriate VP of Operations, who will
  • speak with the appropriate contact person of the non TWHA organization. The Board will be informed of such communication and if appropriate, other Board Members will be included in the process.
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Trails West Hockey Association

c/o Flames Community Arenas
2390 47 Avenue SW
Calgary AB T2T 5W5

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