In an effort to make ice hockey a more enjoyable and rewarding experience for all participants, the Falcons Hockey Association (“FHA”) has adopted a Zero Tolerance Policy (the “Policy”) with respect to the behavior of the players, coaches, and parents who are members of the FHA. We are committed to enforcing, in accordance with the regulations adopted by the Northern Illinois Hockey League (“NIHL”) standards of behavior and sportsmanship and to instilling a respect for the game and all participants.
We expect and require that before, during and after a game in which a FHA team participates or which is a game sanctioned by USA Hockey or AHAI the following standards of behavior are observed:
I. For Players:
Players shall not:
1. Openly dispute, argue with or protest a decision made by an official.
2. Use obscene or vulgar language at any time, even if not directed at any particular person.
3. Visually demonstrate dissatisfaction with an official’s decision.
4. Make any physical contact with body, puck, stick, or other equipment with another player after the whistle has blown.
* Enforcement generally determined by the game official
II. For Coaches:
Coaches shall not:
1. Openly dispute or argue with an official’s decision.
2. Use obscene or vulgar language at any time.
3. Visually demonstrate dissatisfaction with an official’s decision.
4. Make any aggressive physical contact with any player.
* Enforcement generally determined by the game official
III. For Parents and Spectators:
Parents and Spectators shall not:
1. Use obscene or vulgar language at any time.
2. Verbally dispute, argue with or protest an official’s decision or conduct themselves in such a way as to taunt or ridicule officials.
3. Taunt, ridicule, provoke, bait, or threaten players, coaches, officials or other spectators.
4. Throw any object inside the rink or its surroundings which would create a safety hazard or create a delay in the game.
Violations and Sanctions:
Violations of the Policy shall be considered and reviewed by the appropriate committee of the Board of the FHA and penalties shall be assessed based upon the following classifications and in compliance with the NIHL Zero Tolerance Policy as follows:
Class 1 – A first time offense of a relatively basic nature but which shall not include a violation under III – 4 or under “threatening” pursuant to III – 3. Penalties may include reprimands and suspensions.
Class 2 – More serious violations where penalties may involve suspensions of from 3 games to 30 days with the penalty increased for repeat offenses.
Class 3 – The most serious violations involving threats or complete loss of control such that rink officials or outside authorities were required to become involved in the situation. Consistent repetitions of other violations may also result in a determination of a Class 3 violation. Penalties to be assessed will require a minimum 1 year suspension and referral to AHAI.
