Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/277639
3 PLAY. LOVE. EXCEL. The safety of its players is USA Hockey's top priority. This includes not only on-ice safety, but also off-ice safety in any part of USA Hockey's programs. USA Hockey works together with leading organizations, including the United States Olympic Committee, to develop policies and programs that are intended to protect our participants and create an environment safe from abuse or misconduct. On the Ice USA Hockey has a strict standard of rules enforcement, allowing for improved skill development and a more positive environment for all participants. This standard results in a greater emphasis on skating, puck possession and the proper use of body contact. This standard is diligently reviewed and also includes equipment policies. USA Hockey has long been a leader in the effort to enhance player safety, spearheading numerous initiatives aimed at providing the safest possible player environment. Off the Ice USA Hockey has zero tolerance for misconduct and abuse. Our off-ice safety efforts are gathered under the banner of USA Hockey SafeSport, which includes strict policies aimed at protecting participants from all types of misconduct. The SafeSport program also includes a streamlined process for reporting alleged inappropriate behavior. About SafeSport: + SafeSport includes policies prohibiting sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, hazing, bullying and threats.These policies also specifically address areas such as locker rooms, online and social media, road trips and host families. + SafeSport also encompasses education and awareness training, a screening and background check program, reporting-of- concerns protocol, responses to abuse and other misconduct, and continued monitoring of the SafeSport program. A USA Hockey member or parent of any member who (1) violates any of the SafeSport policies or (2) fails to consent to and pass a screening and background check may be denied eligibility within any USA Hockey program and is subject to appropriate disciplinary action including, but not limited to, suspension, permanent suspension, and/or referral to law enforcement authorities. A Safe Environment for Your Child Recent data analysis by Safe Kids Worldwide, an organization dedicated to preventing injuries among children, indicated that a lower percentage of hockey players visited emergency rooms in 2011 and 2012 than kids who played football, soccer, basketball or wrestled. also specifically address areas such as locker Responding to Reports of Abuse Reporting of Concerns of Abuse Policies Prohibiting Abuse & Managing Hockey Environments Education and Awareness Training Screening of Staff and Volunteers Monitoring and Supervision of SafeSport Program SafeSport For more information on SafeSport, visit USAHockey.com/safesport For more information, click the Safety tab on USAHockey.com