Player Code of Conduct
At the Wilmington Seahawks Hockey Association Inc. (WSHA), players are expected to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship, respect, and integrity. As members of this team, players play a crucial role in fostering a positive, safe, and development-focused environment for themselves and their teammates. This Player Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for all WSHA players to ensure that hockey remains a fun, educational, and enriching experience for everyone. By following this code, players contribute to a culture of accountability, teamwork, and dedication to the sport.
Respect for the Game, Officials, Coaches, and Teammates: Players will always show respect for coaches, teammates, opponents, officials, and spectators. No swearing, abusive language, or inappropriate gestures at any time—on the bench, on the ice, in the locker room, or at any team function. Players will not lash out at any official, regardless of the call. The coaching staff will handle all matters related to officiating. Players will not complain about penalties or officiating decisions. Officials are responsible for enforcing the rules of the game, and their authority must be respected.
Behavior Expectations and Sportsmanship: Players will always support and encourage their teammates. Teasing, ridiculing, bullying, or putting down teammates or opponents will not be tolerated. Players will show good sportsmanship in both winning and losing. After every game, players will shake hands and congratulate the opposing team. Fighting will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action, including a possible hearing before the Discipline Committee. Any form of hazing, initiation, or inappropriate locker room behavior is strictly prohibited. Before every home game, the national anthem must be played, and all players are expected to demonstrate respect and unity during its performance. Players will stand in a uniform manner, remove their helmets, and observe silence. Stick taps will only occur at the conclusion of the anthem. When playing at away games, our team will continue to uphold these standards, setting the bar for respect and sportsmanship.
Commitment to the Team and Personal Development: Players will be committed to improving their skills by attending practices, off-ice training, and meetings as required by the coaching staff. Players will arrive at practices and games on time and fully prepared, with all required equipment. Players are responsible for ensuring their equipment is properly maintained and ready for games and practices.
Locker Room, Facility, and Travel Conduct: Players will keep locker rooms clean and in good condition at both home and away facilities. Players will conduct themselves in a respectful manner at all team events, including at ice rinks, hotels, restaurants, and other venues. There will be no drinking, smoking, vaping, use of tobacco products, or illegal substances at any team function.
Social Media, Online Behavior, and Phone Use: Players must abide by all team and league policies regarding social media use. Players will not use social media to post content that is inappropriate, offensive, bullying, demeaning, or inflammatory. Players will not post criticisms of teammates, coaches, officials, referees, or opponents. In addition, phone use is restricted in locker rooms, during team meetings, and on the bench during games. Players are expected to be engaged, present, and respectful in all team settings. Any violations of phone use expectations will be addressed by the coaching staff and may result in disciplinary action.
USA Hockey, SafeSport, and League Compliance: Players must adhere to all USA Hockey, SafeSport, and league policies, including but not limited to:
- Zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, or abuse (physical, verbal, or online).
- Mandatory reporting of any violations of safety, misconduct, or abuse.
- Respecting locker room privacy policies and guidelines.
Disciplinary Action: Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to warnings, suspensions, loss of playing time, removal from team activities, or expulsion from the program. All disciplinary matters will be handled by the coaching staff and, if necessary, escalated to the Board.
By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to abide by the Player Code of Conduct.
Together, we can create an environment where players feel encouraged, respected, and inspired to grow both as athletes and individuals.