In an effort to make ice hockey a more desirable and rewarding experience for all participants, the USA Hockey Youth Council has instructed the officiating program to adhere to certain points of emphasis relating to sportsmanship.  This campaign is designed to require all players, coaches, officials, team officials and administrators to maintain a sportsmanlike and educational atmosphere before, during and after all USA Hockey-sanctioned games.  LAHA is committed to having all on-ice referees and linesmen implement the following points of emphasis:

Players

A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct (zero tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a player:

1.      Openly disputes or argues about any decision by an official.

2.      Uses obscene or vulgar language, including swearing, in a boisterous manner to anyone at any time, even if it is not directed at any particular person.

3.      Visually demonstrates any sign of dissatisfaction with an official's decision, in a manner that openly embarrasses the official and or challenges his judgment.

Any time that any player persists in any of these actions, he/she shall be assessed a misconduct penalty.  A game misconduct penalty shall result if the player continues such action.

Coaches

A bench minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct (zero tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a coach

1.      Openly disputes or argues about any decision by an official.

2.      Uses obscene or vulgar language, including swearing, in a boisterous manner to anyone at any time, even if it is not directed at any particular person.

3.      Visually demonstrates any sign of dissatisfaction with an official's decision, including standing on the boards or standing in a bench doorway with the intent of inciting the officials, players or spectators.

Any time that a coach persists in any of these actions, he/she shall be assessed a game misconduct penalty.

Officials

Officials must apply these guidelines in a realistic manner and must be careful not to get overly technical in their enforcement.  This policy is designed to eliminate direct confrontations with officials while still allowing players and coaches an avenue to communicate in a calm and reasonable fashion.

Officials are required to conduct themselves in a businesslike, sportsmanlike and non-vindictive manner at all times.  The actions of an official must be above reproach.  Actions such as baiting or inciting players or coaches is strictly prohibited.

On-ice officials are ambassadors of the game and shall always conduct themselves with the responsibility in mind.

MM-09.10.2010