Coaches and Team Officials Expectation (Dunnville Minor Hockey)

Icon for Register Your Child Today
Register Your Child Today
Icon for Tournaments
Tournaments
Icon for Coach Resources
Coach Resources
Icon for Trainer Resources
Trainer Resources
PrintCoaches and Team Officials Expectation

Coaches & Team Officials – Expectations

All coaches, trainers, managers, and team officials representing Dunnville Minor Hockey Association are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, respect, and leadership both on and off the ice.
The following expectations are based on Haldimand Local League and DMHA Rules of Operation – Section 2.2 Coaches and Team Officials Code.

General Expectations

  • Represent DMHA with professionalism, integrity, and respect at all times.

  • Provide a positive, inclusive, and safe environment for all players.

  • Communicate clearly and respectfully with players, parents, officials, and league representatives.

  • Model appropriate behaviour — language, dress, attitude, and respect for the game.

  • Ensure all bench staff have valid certifications and background checks (as required by OMHA and Hockey Canada).

Coaches & Team Officials Code (Section 2.2)

  1. Lead by example:

    • Teach and model cooperation, discipline, and respect for officials, opponents, and teammates.

    • Demonstrate proper conduct in language, dress, and sportsmanship.

    • Follow the rules and uphold the spirit of fair play.

  2. Recognize individual differences:

    • Consider each player’s unique abilities and development needs.

    • Focus on long-term growth and realistic goals suited to age and skill level.

  3. Be a supportive resource:

    • Help athletes build confidence, independence, and their full potential on and off the ice.

  4. Make hockey fun and challenging:

    • Teach skills in an encouraging way; learning should be engaging, not discouraging.

  5. Prioritize safety:

    • Ensure equipment and facilities meet current safety standards at all times.

  6. Be honest and consistent:

    • Players respect fairness — be clear about expectations and decisions.

  7. Maintain positive relationships:

    • Interact respectfully with administrators, officials, and parents.

    • Address issues privately and constructively.

  8. Commit to growth:

    • Stay flexible and open to learning through clinics, feedback, and ongoing development.

  9. Encourage year-round wellness:

    • Promote fitness and healthy habits beyond the hockey season.

  10. Respect injury protocols:

    • Follow medical advice when determining return-to-play for injured athletes.

  11. Maintain professional boundaries:

    • Keep relationships with players appropriate and professional at all times.

    • Avoid actions or conversations that could be misinterpreted by players, parents, or others.

  12. Respect other coaches and teams:

    • Acknowledge the right of all coaches to develop their players within their age division.

    • Follow OMHA/League guidelines on affiliated player usage.

  13. Commit to the Long-Term Player Development Model:

    • Develop players in alignment with the Hockey Canada and OMHA frameworks for age-appropriate skill progression and growth.

Accountability

  • Any violation of these expectations may result in review and potential disciplinary action by DMHA’s Executive and/or the Haldimand Local League.

  • Coaches and team officials are leaders — our conduct directly shapes the experience, confidence, and values of our players.