24-Hour Rule & Complaint Process

At RMHA, we understand that concerns may arise throughout the season. To support respectful communication and problem-solving, we ask that all members follow our 24-Hour Rule, one of our most important policies.

24-Hour Rule

Do not approach a coach, manager, or official immediately following a game.

If a situation has caused frustration, concern, or emotional response, please wait at least 24 hours before initiating any conversation. This allows time for reflection and prevents emotional, potentially confrontational exchanges in front of players or other parents.

Steps for Addressing a Concern

1. Follow the 24-Hour Rule.

2. After 24 hours, speak to your Team Manager about the concern.

   • If the concern involves a safety issue, contact your teams Safety Person instead.

3. The Team Manager will communicate concerns to the coaching staff.

   • The Safety Person will address all safety-related issues.

4. If the issue remains unresolved, you may submit a formal complaint using our online form below.

RMHAs Position on Conduct

RMHA follows Hockey Canada's definitions and guidelines on misconduct, bullying, harassment, and abuse. We are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants.

Definitions

Misconduct

Behaviour or repeated behaviour that is inappropriate and addressed through formal (investigation) or informal (fact-finding) processes.

Bullying

Intentional behaviour that hurts, humiliates, or excludes another. Can be:

• Physical - hitting, pushing, etc.

• Verbal - name-calling, threats.

• Relational - social exclusion.

• Reactive - provoking or taunting others.

Harassment

Offensive behaviour—emotional, physical, or sexual based on race, gender, religion, disability, or other protected grounds. It includes attempts to control, intimidate, or shame others.

Abuse

Mistreatment of a child that causes physical or emotional harm. It includes:

• Emotional Abuse - threats, intimidation, threatening, intimidating, isolating, humiliation.

• Physical Abuse - hitting, shaking, grabbing, hazing, excessive exercise as a form of punishment.

• Neglect - chronic failure to provide for basic needs (food, safety, hygiene, etc.). Neglect may apply in a hockey setting where there is a chronic inattention in the hockey context (ie, when a player is made to play with injuries)

• Sexual Abuse - any sexual contact or exposure involving a minor, by another youth or adult.

More on child protection and legal reporting requirements can be found on Hockey Canadas website.

Need to Submit a Formal Complaint?

If your concern was not resolved through your teams manager or safety contact, you may submit a formal complaint below. RMHA is committed to addressing concerns with transparency and respect