| In an effort to make
ice hockey a more desirable and rewarding experience for all participants,
the USA Hockey Youth, Junior, and Senior Councils have instructed the
Officiating Program to adhere to certain points of emphasis relating to
sportsmanship. This campaign is designed to require all players, coaches,
officials, league officials and administrators to maintain a sportsmanlike
and educational atmosphere before, during and after all USA Hockey
sanctioned events. Thus, the following
points of emphasis must be implemented by all on-ice referees and linesman:
Players
A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct
(Zero Tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a player:
1) Openly disputes or argues any decision by
an official.
2) Uses obscene or vulgar language at any
time, including any swearing, even if it is not directed at a particular
person.
3) Visually demonstrates any sign of
dissatisfaction with an official's decision.
Any time that a player persists in any of these
actions, they shall be assessed a misconduct penalty. A game misconduct
shall result if the player continues with such action.
Coaches
A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct
(Zero Tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a coach:
1) Openly disputes or argues any decision by
an official.
2) Uses obscene or vulgar language in a
boisterous manner to anyone at any time.
3) Visually displays any signs of
dissatisfaction with an official's decision including standing on the
boards or standing in the bench doorway with the intent of inciting the
officials, players, or spectators.
Any time that a coach persists in any of these
actions, they shall be assessed a game misconduct penalty.
Officials
Officials are required to conduct themselves in
a businesslike, sportsmanlike, impartial and constructive manner at all
times. The actions of an official must be above reproach. Actions such as
"baiting" or inciting players or coaches are strictly prohibited.
On-ice officials are ambassadors of the game and
must always conduct themselves with responsibility in mind. |
