Abuse and Harassment - ODHA Policy

As the governing body of amateur hockey within our community, the Ottawa and District Hockey Association (ODHA), is obligated to provide an environment whereby all individuals are treated with respect. This Branch considers any form of abuse or harassment to be unacceptable and will do all it can to prevent this intolerable social problem.

The ODHA’s Abuse and Harassment Policy identifies the standard of behaviour, which is expected of all Branch members, including, but not limited to players, officers, board of directors, conveners, committee members, coaches, assistant coaches, trainers, managers and any other team officials, on or off-ice game officials, executive directors, administrators, employees/staff, (paid or unpaid), and any other recognized volunteers. It also applies to any individual who, although not directly employed by, nor a registered member of a team within, nor a volunteer for any association of this Branch, is considered to have a vested interest in amateur hockey, and/or a strong influence on any of its members; for example, parents/guardians, family members or spectators.

Protecting participants from all forms of abuse and harassment, whether emotional, physical, neglectful, sexual or of the bullying type is an important element of safety. Members shall conduct themselves in a fair and responsible manner and are to refrain from comments or behaviours which are disrespectful, offensive, abusive, racist or sexist.

Although this policy is not intended to replace any specific Association’s, District’s and/or League’s existing Code of Conduct, it should to be utilized as a “guiding” resource in the decision making process. This Policy however, will be the deciding resource when dealing with any incident reported to and subsequently dealt with at the ODHA level; including any investigation, hearing and/or appeal

The complete policy can be viewed at this link: A& H Policy(pdf) Questions / Comments email : odharsm@cogeco.ca