Policies and Conduct
Good hockey starts with how we treat each other. This page sets out the standards every SWZ player, parent, coach, manager and volunteer agrees to, and how we handle it when someone falls short. It's also where you'll find SWZ's policies and the Hockey Alberta, Hockey Canada and EFHL rules we play under.
Our goal is simple: a safe, respectful and fun place for every player. If you have a question about anything here, talk to your team manager first.
Our Code of Conduct
Parents and players agree to a code of conduct when they register their child at the start of the season. On top of that, every SWZ team signs the SWZ Code of Conduct at its first team meeting: players, parents, coaches and managers, all on one team sign off sheet. These are the rules we hold each other to.
- 24 hour rule. Wait 24 hours after a game or practice before raising a concern. Parents go to the manager, not the coach, and never to officials.
- Rule of Two. Two screened adults with players at all times: dressing rooms, travel, texts, TeamLinkt and social media. No one on one messages with players.
- Dressing rooms. No phones or cameras.
- Section 11. Slurs, harassment, threats or discrimination mean immediate removal and escalation to SWZ and Hockey Alberta. No warnings first.
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What Everyone Commits To
Players
- Respect teammates, opponents, coaches and officials.
- No bullying, harassment or discriminatory language.
- Accept mistakes as part of the game and support teammates.
- Follow team rules and coach instructions.
- Keep devices out of the dressing room and use social media responsibly.
Parents and guardians
- Support your child and the team in a positive way.
- Respect the 24 hour rule before raising concerns.
- Bring concerns to the team manager, never to coaches during games.
- Never approach referees or officials.
- No coaching from the stands and no negative comments.
- Model respect for players, coaches and other parents.
Coaches and managers
- Lead by example with respect and composure.
- Always follow the Rule of Two, in communication and supervision.
- Never single out or humiliate a player.
- Address behaviour consistently, fairly and confidentially.
- Keep a log of behaviour issues and escalate when needed.
- Work together as one coach and manager team.
How SWZ Handles Behaviour
Most issues are solved at the team level. Coaches and managers set the tone, Category Directors help resolve issues early, and the Discipline Committee steps in only for serious, repeat or unresolved matters.
- Stage 1, Reminder and reset: a quick, respectful conversation to refocus.
- Stage 2, Written notice: concerns in writing, what must change and what support is given.
- Stage 3, Behaviour plan: coach, player and parent agree on clear next steps.
- Stage 4, Temporary removal: a short break, with return guided by a signed behaviour contract.
- Stage 5, Discipline Committee review: serious or repeat issues only.