Parents/Guardians Code of Conduct

Parents/Guardians Code of Conduct

I recognize that it is a privilege, not a right, for my child or participant to play for the South Westchester Hockey Club (“SWHC”) as a Blackhawks, Raiders or Lady Raiders player. I understand that my behavior sets the standard for my child’s / participant’s experience. Accordingly, I agree to the following Code of Conduct:

1. The "Athlete-First" Perspective

• Focus on Fun: I will not force my child / participant to participate. I will remember that children play organized sports for their enjoyment, not mine.
• Development Over Results: I will emphasize effort, learning, improvement and skill development over winning, especially at lower age and competitive levels.
• Positive Reinforcement: I will applaud good effort in both victory and defeat. I will never yell at or physically abuse my child after a game or practice.

2. Respect & Sportsmanship

• Leading by Example: I will exemplify the highest level of sportsmanship by supporting all players, opponents, coaches, officials, and parents.
• Respecting Officials: I will learn the rules of the game and support the officials on and off the ice. I understand that criticizing officials hurts the game and my child's experience.
• Sideline Decorum: I will not yell, taunt or otherwise antagonize players, parents, spectators, facility employees, coaches, or officials by means of baiting, ridiculing, criticizing, threatening physical violence or enacting physical violence. I will maintain a positive attitude toward all participants of the game.

3. Communication & Professionalism

• The 24-Hour Rule: I will follow the "24-Hour Rule"; if I have an issue resulting from a game (or practice) situation, I will wait until the following day to speak with either the coach or the team manager.
• Respectful Channels: I will not engage in displays of anger or harassment toward coaches, players, parents, game officials, league officials, facility employees or spectators in person or via any digital channel (email, messaging apps, etc.), phone, or social media.
• Supporting Volunteers: I recognize that many coaches and managers are volunteers. I will communicate with them respectfully and support their efforts to develop the team.

4. Commitment to the Association

• Safety & Inclusion: I will help foster an environment free of physical and verbal abuse.
• Engagement: I will learn as much as I can about the sport and look for opportunities to volunteer and support the community.
• Representation: During a tournament or game when we are away, I represent the SWHC. I understand that any misconduct such as shoplifting, destruction of property, illegal or excessive consumption of drugs or alcohol, or any other illegal activity will not be tolerated. This rule applies for the entire time I am away for a game or tournament.

I agree to abide by these rules and understand that any violations will make me AND MY CHILD OR PARTICIPANT subject to disciplinary action, which may include suspension or removal OF ME OR MY CHILD OR PARTICIPANT from the program.

The Board of Directors of the South Westchester Hockey Club will deal with unacceptable conduct at its sole discretion, imposing warnings, suspension or expulsion as it deems appropriate. ANY SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION BASED ON VIOLATIONS OF THE CODE OF CONDUCT WILL NOT BE ACCOMPANIED BY ANY REFUND.