OMHA Moves to become a 'Respect' Integrated association
At the 2013 Ontario Minor Hockey Association’s Annual General Meeting, the OMHA Board of Directors announced the OMHA will move to become a complete ‘Respect’ integrated association effective the
2014-2015 season.
The ‘Respect in Hockey’ initiative will require all Team Officials, On-ice Volunteers, On-Ice Officials and Parents to take the appropriate ‘Respect’ education.
At least one parent or guardian of each player registered in minor hockey in the OMHA will be required to complete the Respect in Sport - Parent Program as a condition of participation. The one-hour online course is a proactive, educational program that empowers parents with the tools to ensure the game is enjoyable and respectful for themselves, their children and all other stakeholders in the game.
Team Officials, On-ice Officials and On-ice volunteers will be required to complete the online Respect in Sport - Activity Leader Program or in-class Speak Out! certification.
The next step in this initiative is to provide support to our member centres in the successful implementation and delivery of these programs. With this in mind the OMHA has created the ‘Respect in Hockey’ Implementation Plan which is a detailed guide including program overview, pricing models, administration, timeline and frequently asked questions (FAQs).
“This program encourages positive behaviour, effective communication, and provides parents with valuable tools which can only enhance the enjoyment of our great game for all stakeholders,” commented OMHA Director, Development Programs, Ian Taylor. “Value-added programming such as this is one component of the OMHA’s ongoing commitment to our membership to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants.”