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Policies

The U.S. Center for SafeSport is an independent nonprofit organization responsible for responding to and preventing emotional, physical, and sexual misconduct and abuse in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. The Center also serves as an educational resource for sports organizations at all levels, from recreational sports organizations to professional leagues.



Zero Tolerance Policies

USA Hockey has ZERO TOLERANCE for abuse and misconduct.

This Safe Sport Handbook includes the various Policies that apply to all USA Hockey Member Programs.  Those Policies address

  • Sexual Abuse
  • Physical Abuse
  • Emotional Abuse
  • Bullying, Threats and Harassment
  • Hazing

The Policies also address areas where misconduct can occur and are intended to reduce the risk of potential abuse, including:

  • Locker Room Policy
  • Electronic Communications Policy
  • Travel Policy
  • Billeting Policy

In addition to Policies, the Safe Sport Handbook includes information about  the available and required Training of USA Hockey and its Member Programs’ employees, volunteers, administrators, coaches, parents and players on recognizing and reducing circumstances for potential abuse to occur; information on USA Hockey’s Screening and Background Check Program; the availability and procedures for any person to Report suspected abuse or misconduct (including protections from any retaliation or repercussions for such reporting); the procedures and means by which USA Hockey and its Member Programs should Respond to allegations of abuse and misconduct; and how USA Hockey and its Member Programs will Monitor and Supervise the Safe Sport Program to help ensure its effectiveness.

By combining all of these elements into a comprehensive Safe Sport Program, USA Hockey intends to create the safest possible environment for participation in hockey.

SafeSport Documents and Rescources

*Includes Parental Consent Forms


GTHA Policies

Parent Code Of Conduct

As a parent/legal guardian of a child involved in a program of the Grand Traverse Hockey Association (GTHA), I agree to abide by and follow the rules and guidelines below.

I WILL promote the emotional and physical well-being of the athletes ahead of any personal desire to win.

I WILL remember that my child plays hockey for his/her enjoyment, not mine.

I WILL encourage good sportsmanship through my actions, by demonstrating positive support for all players.

I WILL provide support for coaches and officials working with the athletes to provide a positive experience for all.

I WILL demand my athlete treat all players, coaches, officials, parents, and spectators with respect, regardless of race, creed, color, sex, or ability.

I WILL treat all players, coaches, officials, parents, and spectators with dignity and respect in language, attitude, behavior, and mannerisms.

I WILL inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my athlete or the safety of others.

I WILL respect the property and equipment used at any sports facility, both home and away.

My failure to comply with this Agreement or my participation in any of the defined conduct subject to discipline will result in disciplinary action.

Participant Code of Conduct

As a participant involved in a program of the Grand Traverse Hockey Association (GTHA), I agree to abide by and follow the rules and guidelines below.

No swearing or abusive language on the bench, in the rink, or at any team  function.  

No lashing out at any official no matter what the call is. The coaching staff  will handle all matters pertaining to officiating.  

Anyone who receives a penalty will skate directly to the penalty box.  

Fighting will not be tolerated. Fighting will result in an appearance before a  Discipline Committee.  

There will be no drinking, smoking, chewing of tobacco or use of illegal substances at any team function.  

I will conduct myself in a befitting manner at all facilities (ice rink, hotel,  restaurant, etc) during all team functions.  

Any player who cannot abide by these rules or violates  them will be subject to further disciplinary action.