USA Hockey

11 U S A H O C K E Y PA R E N T H A N D B O O K USA Hockey provides codes of conduct for players, parents, spectators, coaches, and all affiliated individuals to help everyone understand the expectations associated with their role in the game. Below is a snapshot of the USA Hockey codes of conduct, which can be found in the 2025-26 USA Hockey Annual Guide. SPECTATORS CODE OF CONDUCT RESPECT the decisions of officials and encourage participants' continued effort. DISPLAY good sportsmanship. Always respect and show appreciation to all players, coaches, officials and volunteers. ACT APPROPRIATELY; do not taunt or disturb other fans; enjoy the game together. CHEER GOOD PLAYS of all participants; avoid booing opponents. CHEER IN A POSITIVE MANNER and encourage fair play; profanity and objectionable cheers or gestures are offensive. COACHES CODE OF CONDUCT BE A POSITIVE ROLE MODEL to your players. Don't yell or criticize officials. Your team and players are an extension of you and your coaching philosophy. BE GENEROUS with your praise when it is deserved; be consistent and honest; be fair and just; do not criticize players publicly; learn to be a more effective communicator and coach; don't yell at players. ADJUST to personal needs and problems of players; be a good listener; never verbally or physically abuse a player or official; give all players the opportunity to improve their skills, gain confidence and develop self-esteem; teach players the basics. ORGANIZE practices that are fun and challenging for your players. Familiarize yourself with the rules, techniques and strategies of hockey; encourage all your players to be team players. MAINTAIN an open line of communication with your players' parents. Explain the goals and objectives of your association. BE CONCERNED with the overall development of your players. Stress good health habits and clean living. TREAT ALL ATHLETES with respect at all times. BE AWARE OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY of all athletes at all times in regard to our sport. If the conditions are unsafe, follow best practices and not allow the health and safety of the athletes to be compromised. RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS of injury, physical and psychological stress in themselves and in athletes, take these indicators seriously, and refer or seek out appropriate and qualified support. BE PREPARED with an executable emergency plan for their primary use facilities that has been shared and practiced. ASSIST THE ATHLETE in forming goals and expectations that are realistic and practical with consideration of the age, resources and experience of the athlete. GIVE ATHLETES THE OPPORTUNITY to develop their sport and non-sport skills translating into other facets of their lives. WINNING IS A CONSIDERATION, BUT NOT THE ONLY ONE, nor the most important one. Care more about the child than winning the game. Remember, players are involved in hockey for fun and enjoyment.

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