24 Hour Communication and De-Escalation Policy

24 Hour Rule – Communication & De-Escalation Policy

Purpose

The 24-Hour Rule a widely accepted practice in youth sports for managing conflict, promoting respectful communication and preventing unnecessary escalation. The Wilmington Seahawks Hockey Association Inc. (WSHA) practices the 24-Hour Rule to ensure concerns are addressed in a constructive and professional manner that prioritizes the development and safety of our athletes.

Policy Statement

All members of the organization — including parents, players, volunteers, coaches, the Hockey Director, Director of Operations, and Board Members — are expected to wait a minimum of 24 hours before initiating communication with any member of the coaching staff regarding:

• Playing time
• Coaching decisions
• Game strategy
• Team selection
• Disciplinary actions
• On-ice performance
• Any issue arising from a game, practice, or team event

This reflection period allows all parties time to process the situation, gather facts, and approach the matter thoughtfully and productively.

Additionally, discussing these topics in locker rooms, on the bench, in hallways immediately after games, or in front of players and other families is inconsistent with the intent of this policy. Organization members are expected to refrain from engaging in such conversations.Scope

This policy applies to all forms of communication, including:

• In-person discussions
• Phone calls
• Text messages
• Emails
• Social media messages
• Group chats
• Other forms of communication

Communication Guidelines After 24 Hours

• All communication is expected to be respectful and solution-oriented.
• Concerns should first be addressed directly with the appropriate coach.
• If resolution is not achieved, concerns may be escalated to the Hockey Director.
• If further review is necessary, the matter may be brought before the Board of Directors.

Player Safety & SafeSport Exception

The 24-Hour Rule does not apply to issues involving:

• Player safety
• Abuse or misconduct concerns
• Bullying or harassment
• Violations of SafeSport policies

Concerns involving safety or SafeSport matters must be reported immediately to the Hockey Director, Director of Operations, Compliance Officer, a Board Member, or through the organization’s SafeSport reporting procedures. SafeSport concerns may also be reported directly to the U.S. Center for SafeSport.

No retaliation will be tolerated against any individual who raises a safety or SafeSport concern in good faith.