St. CATHARINES CYO MINOR HOCKEY CODES, RULES AND POLICIES

(Reviewed, edited and published, September 2009)

Every effort has been made to establish rules and policies that cover all issues, incidents and questions that may occur in the St. Catharines CYO Minor Hockey League.

 Any incidents or issues that may not be covered by this document  will be researched and reconciled through St. Catharines CYO Minor Hockey League By-Laws,  Alliance Hockey, the OHF, and Hockey Canada, Rules, Policies and Guidelines.

1:0 Codes of conduct
1:1 Websites
2:0 League Rules/Policies
2:1 Player Age Eligibilities
2:2 Bench Area
2:3 Discipline
       a) Team Officials
       c) Players
       f)
House League Specific Penalties and Suspensions
2:4 Injury Assistance
2:5 Game Structure
       d) Overtime 
2:6 Minimum Players Requirement
2:7 Parish Colours
2:8 Player Eligibility
2:9 Team Officials Eligibility
2:10 Conveners/Tyke-Novice
2:11 Player Rotation
2:12 Review/Suspension/Appeal Procedures
2:13 Standings (Regular Season)/Playoff Tie Breaking
2:14 Tournaments/Exhibition Games
2:15 Player Registration and Distribution
2:16 Select Program
         k) Suspensions
2:17 Minor Development (MD) Program
2:18 Equipment Requirements
2:19 Changes to These Rules and Their Application

 

1:0 Codes of Conduct

 Any CYO member may be required to read and sign a relevant code of conduct, resulting from any violations discovered during a disciplinary hearing or an Incident Report review. The signed acknowledgement will be presented for any further disciplinary action.


a. ALLIANCE Code of Conduct:

The Code of Conduct identifies the standard of behaviour that is expected of all ALLIANCE members and participants, which for the purpose of this policy shall include all players, guardians, parents, coaches officials, volunteers, directors, officers, committee members, conveners, team managers, trainers, administrators, referees, employees and others involved in ALLIANCE activities and events.

The ALLIANCE is committed to providing an environment in which all individuals are treated with respect. Members and participants of the ALLIANCE shall conduct themselves at all times in a manner consistent with the values of ALLIANCE which include fairness, integrity and mutual respect.

During the course of all ALLIANCE activities and events, members shall avoid behaviour which brings the ALLIANCE or the sport of hockey into disrepute, including but not limited to abusive use of alcohol, use of non-prescription drugs and use of alcohol by minors.

The ALLIANCE members and participants shall at all times adhere to the ALLIANCE's operational policies and procedures, to rules and regulations governing ALLIANCE events and activities, and to rules and regulations governing any competitions in with the member participates on behalf of the ALLIANCE.

Members and participants of the ALLIANCE shall not engage in any activity or behaviour which interferes with a competition or with any player or team's preparation for a competition, or which endangers the safety of others.

Members of the ALLIANCE shall refrain from comments or behaviours which are disrespectful, offensive, abusive racist or sexist. In particular, behaviour which constitutes harassment, abuse, or bullying will not be tolerated, and with be dealt with accordingly. .

Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Discipline Policy of the ALLIANCE. Such action may result in the member losing the privileges which come with membership in the ALLIANCE, including the opportunity to participate in ALLIANCE activities and events, both present and future.


b. Team Officials:

I will be reasonable when scheduling games and practices, remembering that players have other interests and obligations

I will teach my players to play fairly and to respect the rules, officials and opponents I will ensure that all players get equal instruction and support

I will not ridicule or yell at my players for making mistakes or for performing poorly. I will remember that players play to have fun and must be encouraged to have confidence in themselves

I will make sure that equipment and facilities are safe and match the players’ ages and abilities

I will remember that participants need a coach they can respect. I will be generous with praise and set a good example.

I will obtain proper training and continue to upgrade my coaching skills

I will work in cooperation with officials for the benefit of the game


Signature:_________________________________________ Date:____________________________


c. Players:

I will play hockey because I want to, not just because others or coaches want me to

I will play by the rules of hockey, and in the spirit of the game

I will control my temper – fighting and “mouthing off” can spoil the activity for everybody

I will respect my opponents

I will do my best to be a true team player

I will remember that winning isn’t everything – that having fun, improving skills, making friends and doing my best are also important

I will acknowledge all good plays/performances – those of my team and of my opponents

I will remember that coaches and officials are there to help me. I will accept their decisions and show them respect.


Signature:_________________________________________ Date:____________________________


d.
Team Mom or Dad:

 I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care and encouragement for all children participating in CYO Hockey by following this Code-of-Conduct.

 I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, timekeepers and officials at every game, practice or other youth events.

 I will place the emotional and physical well being of all children ahead of my personal desire to win.

 I will insist that all children practice and play in a safe and healthy environment.

 I will provide support for coaches and officials working with children to provide a positive, enjoyable experience for all.

 I will remember that a game is for children and not for adults.

 I will do my very best to make hockey fun for each child.

 I will ask all children to treat other players, coaches, fans and officials with respect regardless of race, sex, creed, ability or economic circumstance.

 I will promise to help all children enjoy the CYO Hockey experience within my personal constraints by assisting the coaches and trainers, being a respectful fan, providing help in whatever I am capable of doing.

 I will discuss the Code-of-Conduct with the other parents on the team.

 I will provide a report an accounting of all team money raised and spent to the coach and Parish Leader.

 I will bring issues of concern to the Parish Leader of Program Director for discussion.

By signing this Code-of -Conduct, I understand and accept the Code-of-Conduct as it is written. I also understand that if failure to comply with this Code-of-Conduct it will result in disciplinary action as determined by the CYO Executive, after a review of the violation. I agree to abide by the CYO Executive findings and realize that this includes and is not limited to, my removal from the team or league.

Signature:_________________________________________ Date:____________________________
 

e. Parents:

I will not force my child to participate in hockey.

I will remember that my child plays hockey for his or her enjoyment, not for mine.

I will encourage my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.

I will teach my child that doing one’s best is as important  as winning, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of a game.

I will make my child feel like a winner every time by offering praise for competing fairly and trying hard.

I will never ridicule or yell at my child for making a mistake or losing a game.

I will remember that children learn best by example. I will applaud good plays/performances by both my child’s team and their opponents.

I will never question the officials’ judgment or honesty in public.

I will support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children’s hockey games.

I will respect and show appreciation for the volunteer coaches who give their time to coach hockey for my child.

Signature:_________________________________________ Date:____________________________


 
f. Parish Leaders /Program Directors:
 

I will do my best to see that all players are given the same chance to participate, regardless of gender, ability, ethnic background or race.

I will absolutely discourage any sport program from becoming primarily an entertainment for the spectator.

I will make sure that all equipment and facilities are safe and match the athletes’ ages and abilities.

I will make sure that the age and maturing level of the participants are considered in program development, rule enforcement and scheduling.

I will remember that play is done for its own sake and make sure that winning is kept in proper perspective.

I will distribute the fair play codes to spectators, coaches, athletes, officials, parents and media.

I will make sure that coaches and officials are capable of promoting fair play as well as the development of good technical skills and I will ensure that they become certified.

Signature:_________________________________________ Date:____________________________


g. Spectators:

I will remember that participants play hockey for their enjoyment. They are not playing to entertain me.

I will not have unrealistic expectations. I will remember that players are not professionals and cannot be judged by professional standards.

I will respect the officials’ decisions and I will encourage participants to do the same.

I will never ridicule a player for making a mistake during a game. I will give positive comments that motivate and encourage continued effort.

I will condemn the use of violence in any form and will express my disapproval in an appropriate manner to coaches and League officials.

I will show respect for my team’s opponents, because without them there would be no game.

I will not use bad language, nor will I harass players, coaches, officials or other spectators.

I will leave the playing arena when requested to do so by a game official.
 

Signature:_________________________________________ Date:____________________________

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1.1 Websites

All CYO Parish, program and tournament websites must contain a link to the CYO Homepage (www.cyohockey.on.ca).

 

2:0 League Rules & Policies

 

2:1 Player Age Eligibilities:

Mites must be 4 years of age by December 31st of the current season.

Tykes must be 5 or 6 years of age by December 31st of the current season.

Novices must be 7 or 8 years of age by December 31st of the current season.

Atoms must be 9 or 10 years of age by December 31st of the current season.

Peewees must be 11 or 12 years of age by December 31st of the current season.

Bantams must be 13 or 14 years of age by December 31st of the current season.

Midgets must be 15, 16 or 17 years of age by December 31st of the current season.

Juveniles must be 18, 19, or 20 years of age by December 31st of the current season.

Alumni must be 21 and over.

Note: The Hockey Council will determine the age brackets, provided that they are consistent with Minor Hockey ALLIANCE of Ontario guidelines.
 

2:2  Bench Areas

a) Certified coaches, trainers or, managers are the only personnel allowed on the bench, other than team players. All team officials are to be certified by November 15th of the current season.

b) The names of all people in the bench area and their certification numbers are to be recorded on the game sheets.

c) Parish Leaders will supply a list of coaches, trainers or, managers, with their certification numbers to the V.P. of External Operations by November 10th. The VP External shall compile a list of all coaches and trainers complete with their certification numbers to be used by the timekeeper. As of November 15th, the timekeeper will be responsible for ensuring that only certified team officials are behind the bench. Violations will be brought to the referee’s attention and games will not start until uncertified team officials are removed from the bench area. Refusal to vacate the bench area by uncertified team officials will result in forfeiture of the game by offending team.

d) No more than 5 team officials are to be on the bench during games. In the tyke division, an on-ice coach is permitted during regular season games, until December 31st. This coach must adhere to Rule 2.9(d).

e) The minimum age for all coaches will be consistent with Minor Hockey ALLIANCE of Ontario rules. Assistant coaches and trainers must be 18 years of age or older. Fourteen to Seventeen year old members, as of December 31st of the current season, may be assistants in the tyke, novice, atom and peewee divisions, with prior approval from the Hockey Council.

f) All head coaches must be twenty-one years of age or older as of December 31 of the current season.

g) The head coach shall ensure that a certified trainer is present on the bench, excluding qualified players, during games and practices. The head coach may declare the opposing teams’ trainer as his own, in the absence of his teams’ regular trainer,  during games.

h) All team/league officials must obtain the following certifications to participate:

 

League Positions

Police 
Record
Check

Speak
Out
Certificate

Coach
Certificate

Trainer
Certificate

Code of
Conduct

Board Member        
Bench Coach    
Assistant Coach    
Trainer    
Manager*      
Team Mom or Dad        
On Ice Helper (Practices ONLY)      
On-Ice Helper - Under 17 yrs. Old- must be a registered CYO player and be wearing full equipment.          
Mite Program Coordinator    
Tyke Division - On-Ice Game Helper    
Division Convener        
League Administrator        

 

*Managers must obtain a coach/trainers card to participate on the bench during games.

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2:3 Discipline


a) Team Officials:

 i) Any team official ejected from a game for any reason, must go directly to the dressing room, and may not return to arena area. Any additional suspension will be according to the OHF Suspension List.

ii) Any suspension uncompleted at the end of the season shall be carried over into the following season. Suspensions will be served in league or select games (regular or playoff).

iii) There shall be no appeal process afforded the offending team official to reduce the severity of the automatic OHF suspensions, nor shall there be a method for the Executive Committee to impose an increased suspension for the offense in question. However, this does not disallow the right of the Executive Committee to review the actions and behaviour of the coach outside the confines of the game, as prescribed by the League By-laws and/or Rules and proceed with further discipline.

iv) The accumulation of penalty minutes,  by a team, exceeding 24 minutes in a game, consisting of minor penalties only, will cause the ejection of the head coach. 

b) Players:

i) In Bantam and Midget Divisions ONLY, the coach in consultation with the Parish Leader may discipline players who have been missing any games or practices without a legitimate cause. If the form of discipline is to bench the player, for any length of time, it must be reported on an Incident Report Form. This form must be submitted, by the coach, to the Parish Leader, who in turn must forward the form to the VP Internal, prior to or immediately thereafter the incident.

ii) In all divisions, any events, occurring outside the normal progression of the game must be reported using the Incident Report Form.
 

c) CYO House League Specific Penalties and Suspensions:

i) All minor penalties in Tyke and Novice divisions are to be one (1) minute in length. All minor penalties in Atom, Peewee, Bantam and Midget are to be two (2) minutes in length. Juveniles are to be three (3) minutes in length

ii) Three (3) penalties in one game – current game suspension.  This does not include Supplemental Discipline for the same offence.  Example:  A player receives a penalty for tripping, argues the call and receives a penalty for arguing the call.  He now has two penalties.  He continues to argue and the referee gives him another penalty.  This last call is considered “Supplemental Discipline” and is not included in this rule.  The VPI will examine ALL game sheets to ensure this rule is properly applied.

iii) If a player repeats – 1 game suspension*

iv) If a player repeats again – 2 game suspension

v) If player repeats again – suspension until review by the Executive

*vi) In the midget and juvenile divisions only, any player receiving three penalties, will be ejected from the immediate game, only, for the first two offences, of the season .  

If the same player is ejected a third time, for three penalties, an additional one game suspension will be enforced.

The fourth ejection for receiving, three penalties in one game,  an additional two game suspension will be enforced.

Following a fifth instance, an indefinite suspension will occur and an interview by the Board will be necessary for re-instatement to continue to participate.

  vii) Juvenile House League Only:  1st Fight major – 5 games suspension.  2nd Fight major – ejection from the League with no registration refund.

viii) Midget House League Only: 1st Fight major – 1 game suspension.  2nd Fight major – 5 game suspension. 3rd Fight major – ejection from the League with no refund

ix) All suspensions listed above, are in addition to the OHF minimum suspensions for the infractions.

x) After receiving a match penalty, under no circumstances is a player to participate in House League or select games or, AP to MD.

xi) If a player receives more than one major or misconduct in the same game, the suspensions will be added up and served.  Penalties assessed near or at the end of the season will carry over into the following season.

xii) Any player ejected from three games for any disciplinary reasons will be assessed an additional one game suspension.

xiii) Suspensions received in CYO League Games, tournaments and exhibition games must be served in the next scheduled game (house league or select). Scheduled games are defined as games in which the CYO has been given prior notification before the infraction. Discipline assessed during these games will be determined using the Minor Hockey ALLIANCE of Ontario Rules and Regulations. Any suspensions received in select tournaments and exhibition games must be served in the next scheduled game (whether it is House League or select)

d) No parent may contact the Minor Hockey ALLIANCE of Ontario.
 

2:4  Injury Assistance
Only trainers shall be allowed on the ice to attend an injured player or official,  unless more assistance is required and an official requests the aid of another person.

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2:5 Game Structure
a) The President or VP Administration may order a postponed game to be played on 48 hours notice.

b) Starting of the Game: THE RUNNING START
.
Timekeeper should put period time plus three (3) minutes on the clock during the start of game flood. (e.g. peewee games – 13 minutes)
.
Clock starts immediately upon the closing of the Zamboni doors.
The three (3) minutes is warm-up time. Buzzer should be pressed at the two (2) minute and one (1) minute mark to advise teams but the clock does not stop.
Two Officials will be at centre ice at the 10 (or 15) minute mark and call the teams for the face-off. No game will begin without two (2) Officials on the ice.
Clock does not stop until 1st stoppage in play of the 1st period.
This method is also used during periods. Timekeeper will put period time plus one (1) minutes on the clock. Teams have 1 minute to change ends and begin play. Clock does not stop until 1st stoppage in play in any period.
This procedure ensures that games can be completed in the allotted hour and that teams wasting warm-up time do not cause an adverse effect on the following games. If your team is not ready at the face-off circle, the game clock will CONTINUE to run.

c) The buzzer system shall be in effect as follows:

   i. TYKE 3-10 minute stopped time periods, 2-minute line change buzzer.

   ii. NOVICE 3-10 minute stopped time periods, 2-minute line change buzzer.

   iii. ATOM 3-12 minute stop time periods, change on the fly.

   iv. PEEWEE 3-12 minute stop time periods, change on the fly.

   v. BANTAM 3-10 minute stop time periods, change on the fly.

   vi. MIDGET 3-10 minute stop time periods, change on the fly.

   vii. JUVENILE 3-12 minute stop time periods, change on the fly.
 

d)  Overtime:  There is no overtime  period during the regular season or games prior to Championship Weekend.

e). On Championship Weekend, all periods will be 10 minutes in length in all divisions. The Running Start is suspended. There is not a curfew for these games. Teams with less than the required number of players will have 15 minute grace to ice a team or a forfeit will occur.  One 30 second time out per team is allowed during games on Championship Weekend only.

f) Players of all divisions must shake hands before the game.

g) After the game, visiting team returns to the bench and the home team goes immediately to the dressing room, before the visiting team leaves the ice.  Head coaches who fail to hold their team after completion of the game may be subject to discipline.

h) Slap shots are banned in tyke and novice.

i) All teams must be ready to start ten minutes prior to the scheduled time should the ice, timekeepers and referees be available. This may be required in order to ensure that all games scheduled for a given day be completed on time.

j) At the timekeeper’s discretion, if the time remaining to complete the game will not be sufficient to finish the game in the allocated hour, the timekeeper may switch the clock to running time to attempt to get the game completed. This will apply to all divisions.

k) In the event that a game starts late, the timekeeper shall note the actual time of day on the game sheet to verify the late start.

l) In Tyke, Novice and Atom divisions only: There will be a three-goal cap per player per game not including overtime and the shootout. When a player scores more than his/her three goals, the goal will be disallowed and the face-off will be held in the offensive zone.

m) Icing will be suspended in the Tyke division only.

n) In the event of an on-ice injury where the player cannot be moved, the timekeeper will not run the clock until the player is removed from the ice. The timekeeper will determine how much time is left on the hour and adjust the clock accordingly. This does not apply on Championship weekend.

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2:6 Minimum Players Requirement

a) The minimum number of players, to start a game, is 7 skaters and 1 goalie. Note: If during a game, due to players being ejected from the game, or hurt and not able to play, and the number of players excluding the goalie falls below the minimum, the game will be played following the rotation rules (Paragraph 2:12)

b) No game may be cancelled.  Anyone attempting to cancel any game will be reviewed by the board and disciplined. The exception to this rule is if the Arena administrators cancel activities at City facilities due to  equipment malfunctions or, in climate weather conditions.

b) Defaulted games are noted in the records as a 3-0 score. Goals for and against will be noted in the case of a tie in the final standings.

c) Player requirements are to be met before the drop of the puck to start the game. If the puck is dropped to start the game and sufficient number of players are not present at this time, the game is defaulted, (by either or both teams as the case may be) and shall be played as an exhibition game. Full details are to be recorded on the game sheet by the timekeepers.

d) Any team defaulting 1 or more games, will be reviewed by the Executive Committee, for  possible, disciplinary action.

e) If a team that does not have sufficient number of players to play a game shall, in consultation with the Parish Leader and coach, call up a major age player from the next lower age division. other than on Championship weekend, to a higher age group with parental permission. Players chosen must first be requested from the same Parish.  The team may then request replacement players  from other Parishes in the lower age group division.

Skaters from the same division may not be recruited to play in a league/playoff game. This will create a forfeit for the offending team and possible discipline for the head coach.

 The team may call from the lower division to allow a maximum of 10 players (2 full lines) plus a goalie.

A skater may be called up to a higher division for a maximum of 3 games per year.  This rule is designed to avoid a default situation.  This is to be noted on the game sheet.

f) Tyke/Novice coaches may rotate players to goalie at his/her discretion with player and parental approval.

 In the Atom division only, in the absence of the regular goalie, any player on the team may play in net, with parental permission.

If a goalie is required by a Peewee, Bantam, Midget or Juvenile team, in consultation with Parish Leaders and coaches involved, coaches must:

i) First call across from their sister team (if there is one)

ii) 2nd year goalie from the lower division in the same Parish, with player and parental permission.

iii) Call across a same aged goaltender from the same division, only if the coach has exhausted all the avenues listed in this rule.

There are no limitations to how many games a goaltender may play for another team.  In Atom-Juvenile, registered goalies may only play in net.
 

2:7 Parish Colours

St. Denis
:

Green, White and Blue

White, Green and Blue

Black, Green, Blue and Silver

White, Blue, Black and Silver

St. Alfred:

Teal, Black and Grey

Gold, Black and White

St. Julia:

Black, Gold, White and Green

White, Black, Gold and Green

Immaculée Conception:

Dark Blue, Red, White or Gold

White, Red and Dark Blue

Red, White and Blue (provided that should a conflict arise when playing SOTS, the IC team will change jerseys regardless of other provisions of this rule)

St. Mary:

Powder Blue, Navy

Navy, Powder Blue

Star of the Sea:

Red, White

White, Red
Black, Red and White

St. Patrick:

Mustard, Blue and Silver
Blue, Mustard and Silver

a) Parish Leaders must submit new colors to the Hockey Council for approval prior to the start of the season.

b) List of Conflicting Colors: To be compiled when available by the Vice President of Administration prior to the first game of each season.

c)  When a conflict in jersey color occurs, the home team is responsible to provide alternate, non-conflicting,  jerseys. Failure to do so will result in forfeiture. 

d) Shirts and socks must be matching.

e) Authorization to modify team/Parish colors can only be made via rule change or amendment.

f) All Parishes must have numbers no smaller than 3 inches high on both sleeves of each player’s jersey.

g) All Parish names will be established prior to the start of the season.

h) All jerseys must have St. Catharines CYO visible on the front.

i) All Parishes and Parish teams with regard to communications and public relations must identify themselves as follows: “Parish Name” CYO Hockey AND “Parish Name” CYO Hockey “Division” “Team Name.” 

j) All jerseys must have “STOP SIGN” patch attached to the back of the jersey.

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2:8 Player Eligibility

a)
Eligibility to play in the League shall be restricted to players who are not playing in any other organized hockey League, other than school Leagues. Any Parish Leader, coach, player or parent knowing of any infraction to this rule is obliged to report it, upon discovery, to their Parish Leader (where applicable) who will then inform the VP of Internal Operations. It will then be the VP of Internal Operations responsibility to verify or disprove such allegations and notify the Hockey Council of his/her findings. The verification process is to take no longer than necessary to contact the parties involved. Failure to disclose a player’s ineligibility will result in disciplinary action to be decided by the Executive Committee.

b) Proof of age and registration form must be provided by any player for League approval before participating in any League games.

c) Any player found playing under false pretense, over the age limit or while under suspension will be immediately suspended until further notice (review by the Executive Committee).

d) Upon verification that a player is participating in another organized hockey League, s/he will be expelled from CYO League for the balance of the season, without refund. Re-admission into the CYO will be at the discretion of the Executive Committee upon written application by the offending party. This does not affect the outcome of any games played by the player up to this date unless:

            i) An Incident Report form is sent to the League within 48 hours of the incident, detailing the player’s status as ineligible.  The VPI will review the report and respond.

e) Special approval by the Executive Committee is required in order for a player who has been refused membership in any other athletic organization for misconduct to be admitted to the CYO League.
 

2:9 Team Officials Eligibility

a) Any team official who has been suspended indefinitely by the Board of Directors must apply for approval to the Executive Committee to participate the following season.

b) All team officials  must supply an original Police Record Check (PRC) processed by the Niagara Regional Police every 4 years. It must make reference to “CYO Minor Hockey” and be submitted no later than November 15th of the current season. The PRC is be reviewed by the CYO Compliance Officer, in accordance with the ALLIANCE Volunteer Screening Policy. The cost of this report is the responsibility of the participant.

c) All CYO Team Officials will comply with certification requirements listed in Rule 2:2

d) ON-ICE PERSONNEL HELMET POLICY: All team officials, volunteers and on-ice helpers are required to wear CSA approved helmets during all on ice activities. Any person on the ice for a CYO event whose helmet's chinstrap is not fastened properly will be treated the same as not having a helmet. If the strap is missing or, broken, they will leave the ice. Trainers, coaches, and CYO executive are empowered to remove anyone who does not comply.  Trainers or any other team officials who enter the ice surface for the purpose of attending to an injured player are exempt from this rule. Any person found in violation of this rule will receive a warning for the first offence, a two-week suspension for a second offence and a one year suspension for the third offence.

2.10 Conveners – Tyke/Novice

Hockey Council will ask for and approve volunteer convener(s), for the tyke and novice divisions only.

Conveners will be responsible for ensuring games start promptly and at the designated time.  They will confirm the presence of two on-ice officials, a timekeeper and alert both teams of the possibility of any curfew issue.

Conveners will ensure proper rotation is maintained throughout all regular season games.

Conveners will be required to submit a signed Code of Conduct form.

Conveners will be identified to all Members so they will be aware of their presence.   

The conveners will make every effort to be present at all the designated division’s regular season games or have a Board approved representative present at the games in their place. 

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2:11 Player Rotation

a) Team line-ups will be made according to the player rotation formula. Player rotation is to be in order of the names on the game sheet in buzzer divisions only.

b) Please note that players may be placed in any position once they are on the ice. The buzzer system shall be in effect for tyke and novice.

c)  i) If a team has a penalty, the players will be sent out in sequence. When the penalized player returns to the bench, s/he will go back into the order of sequence as per the game sheet. No player may be held back from his or her rotational shift more than once if the team is serving a penalty. When a penalty occurs, if the last player in rotation of the next shift has already been held back on the bench because of a penalty, the coach must then proceed to the player before that player in the rotation. This sequence shall continue if this situation occurs with the next available player.

     ii) Rotation Compliance: Upon receiving a rotation complaint, the convener may monitor and record any team’s rotation using a CYO approved Monitor form without notice.  The convener may also randomly monitor any team’s rotation throughout the course of the season, having given prior notice to the Board. All rotation complaints in these divisions will be submitted on an incident report form and directed to the convener, who will then contact the Parish Leader and the VPI for notification. If a convener is not present, no rotation complaint will be entertained by the Board or Hockey Council. All monitoring records will be given to the timekeeper to submit along with the game sheet to the administrator whether an issue results from the record or not. All submitted monitor records will be reviewed by the VPI, prior to next divisional games.

d) Any team that does not follow the rotation formula during the regular season or play-off games will be disciplined in the following manner:

1. First offence – warning.

2. Second offence during the same game – 2 minute bench minor.

3. Third offence during the same game – 2 minute bench minor plus ejection of coach from the game (if coach refuses to leave, game will be forfeited).

4. Coach is suspended for 3 games.

5. If the above items are repeated, indefinite suspension from the League.

e) In the tyke and novice divisions:

i) Goalies must be identified on the game sheet.

ii) All remaining players must be listed in the order in which they will go out on the ice.

iii) Coaches may place players in any position. The player does not have to be designated as a forward or defenseman for the entire game.

iv) No changing “on the fly” in these divisions.

v) When a player is injured and is required to leave the ice, the 5th player from the last rotational shift played by the team (the shift that just finished playing) is required to take the place of the injured player. If the injury occurs on the first shift of the game, the last player listed on the game sheet will take the place of the injured player. The injured played in entitled to return at the next stoppage in play if s/he is able to do so.

vi) The goalie cannot be pulled until the last 4 minutes of the game regardless of the situation (i.e. delayed penalty).

vii) If during a game, which is monitored by the convener , in a division where the buzzer system applies, a goal is scored and a team is in violation of Player Rotation at the time when the goal is scored, the game shall be stopped and the goal immediately disallowed. The time clock will be reset to the start of the shift in which the disallowed goal was scored.

vii) In the tyke division  one coach is required on the ice until Christmas break. Their function is to aid the on-ice officials, with the positioning of players for face-off and not to coach the players.

f) The team goalie, as defined on the game sheet, must start each shift in the crease of the team net.

g) Atom, Peewee, Bantam, Midget and Juvenile divisions:

i. All players must play one out of three shifts.

ii. When changing “on the fly”, line change must be completed on the next whistle.

iii. Five players must be changed to complete a shift.

iv. All participants must have fair ice time.  No double shifting. Double shifting means five players must go out before the same player goes back on.

h) When a situation arises where there will be two players rotating in one position (i.e. center), the players which are on the bench waiting for the next line change will go on the ice before the player who is in the two man rotation returns to the ice. It is the responsibility of the coach to inform the monitors of the two-man rotation system, designating their jersey numbers.

vi) All playoff  games will be monitored for rotation compliance. Failure to follow any of the above rules shall result in the game being stopped immediately and the game shall not continue until the proper rotation is restored.  Any rotation infraction in the last two minutes of the third period, or overtime, will result in a two-minute bench penalty for the offending team. The offending team will rectify the rotation immediately and send one of the players who were one the ice, in proper rotation when the infraction occurred, to serve the bench minor.

 i) The HOME team has the right to enter their roster on the game sheet after the visiting team has done so.

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2:12 Review/Suspension/Appeal Procedures

Review Procedure:

In cases listed in Section 2:3 that require review by the Board:

a) The VP of Internal Operations shall advise the President and Parish Leader of the incident. In the event the Parish Leader cannot be reached, the assistant Parish Leader shall be advised.

b) The VP of Internal Operations shall place the incident on the agenda of  the next Board meeting.

c) In cases of repeat offenders (three or more suspendable offences), the VP of Internal Operations shall notify the Parish Leader of the date, place and time of the meeting, and when the Board will review the incidents. The parent and child will be advised that they have a right to be present at the meeting and speak on their own behalf.

d) The VP of Internal Operations shall make a full report to the Board.   At the review meeting, the VPI may call any witnesses s/he wishes and make any submissions and recommendations s/he wishes to make to the Board. 

e) After hearing all the evidence and submissions, the Board shall, in closed session, make any decisions regarding discipline which shall be conveyed in writing to the player, parent, coach and Parish Leader concerned.

f) The discipline of the player/ team official is still in effect until the review process is complete.
 

Suspension Procedure:

In all cases listed in Section 2:3 that call for automatic suspensions:

a) The VP of Internal Operations shall advise the President and Parish Leader of the incident.

b) The Parish Leader will advise the coach, parent and player involved, of the discipline to be imposed according to these rules.
 

Appeal Procedures

Members who are not satisfied with results of disciplinary action may do the following, in this order:

a) Discuss the situation with the player’s coach.

b) Discuss the situation with the Parish Leader or Assistant Parish Leader if the Parish Leader cannot be reached. The Parish Leader may, in turn take the matter up with the VP of Internal Operations on behalf of the parent, player or coach. The VP of Internal Operations shall interpret the Rules and mediate disputes. In mediating disputes when requested, s/he shall determine the appropriate procedure.

c) OHF minimum suspensions cannot be appealed.

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2:13 Standings (Regular Season)/ Playoff Tie Breaking

a) The League shall maintain standings on the basis of wins, ties and losses, which will be posted on the CYO website

b) The procedure to resolve regular season final standings shall be as follows:

i) Team with most wins.

ii) Result of head to head play – Best Record (win/loss).

iii) Team with fewest goals against.

iv) Fewest penalty minutes.

v) Coin Toss.

c) Tied games can occur in round-robin style playoffs .

d) The method to resolve playoff final standings ties in the first playoff round shall be as follows:

i) Team with most wins.

ii) Result of head to head play – Best record (win/loss).

iii) Team with fewest goals against.

iv) Fewest penalty minutes.

v) Goal differential formulas according to ALLIANCE rules.

vi) Playoff game to be played.

e) The procedure for resolving ties in semi-final and championship games will be as follows:

i) There will be a 10 minute sudden-death stop time period (all divisions).

ii) There will be a two-minute buzzer in the tyke and novice divisions.

iii) Rotation for the start of the overtime will follow the regular game rotation (e.g. If players 3-7 are on the ice at the end of the game, then players 8-12 will start the overtime period).

iv) If the game should not be decided within the 10 minute overtime period, there will be a 5-player shoot-out to decide the winner.

v) Players in the shoot-out are to shoot one at a time. The Home team will have the choice whether to shoot first or last in the shoot out.

vi) Players for the shoot-out are to be selected by the coaches prior to the game and are to be designated on the game sheet (Players to be numbered in the margin of the game sheet 1 to 5, 1 being the player to shoot first, 5 the last).

vii) Should there be a tie after all 5 players have shot, there will be a sudden death shoot out. Starting from the number 1, designated players from each team will continue to shoot through rotation until one-team scores and the other fails to do so.

f) Playoff format for all divisions will be determined by the January Board meeting.

g) For semi-finals and finals, home is determined as the team who finished higher in the regular season standings.

h) The team which finishes first in their respective division during the regular season will get the choice of playing in either the 1st or 2nd place position during the playoffs.

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2:14 Tournaments/Exhibition Games

a) Any CYO hockey team may enter a House League tournament.  Exhibition games may also be arranged with affiliated teams or Leagues.

b) All teams are required to fill out Minor Hockey ALLIANCE of Ontario travel permits prior to participating in an exhibition game or tournament. Travel permits are available from the CYO office. Tournament permits must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the respective event and exhibition game permits must be submitted at least 3 days prior to the event.

c) The VPE must be notified of all tournaments and exhibition games in advance.

d) All tournament/exhibition game sheets must be submitted to the CYO Administrator for review before the team’s next game. Failure to comply will result in suspension of future travel permits.

e) House League teams are limited to entering no more than 3 tournaments, not including the ALLIANCE Championships.

f) Select teams are restricted from entering Christmas Tournaments.

 

2:15 Player Registration/Distribution

Definitions:

a.       A Registered Player:

A Registered Player is a player who has filled out a registration form in full, and paid the registration fee (or made arrangements with the CYO President or VPA for payment).  If registration is after August 31st of the year, a late fee is applied to all Tyke to Midget returning players (House League or MD), new players to the League are not required to pay a late fee.   Any player who is not considered a registered player cannot step on the ice, and will not be rostered under any circumstances. 

If a Parish/program is going to cover the registration fee for a player, they are considered registered when the Parish/program has paid the fee, and the parent/guardian has filled out the registration form.

b.      Priority Card:

A Priority Card is a Parish tool that allows the Parish/program to displace a lower registration number.

Each Parish will receive only 2 (two) priority cards per hockey season that will offset all registration numbers. The Priority Cards are to be used at the Parish Leader/Delegate discretion on player allocation day.

c.       Parish Leader/Assistant Parish Leader Rule:

Motion carried at 2008-2009 Player Allocation Day

That the children of a Parish Leader and 2 (two) Assistant Parish Leaders as defined in the bylaws, are guaranteed a spot within the Parish they are volunteering in.  (Rationale – the amount of work one provides to these roles, and the importance of volunteers in these roles should allow this advantage).

NOTE: the child must register prior to the end of regular season, and have made payment arrangements with the League.

PL or APL must have been to a Hockey Council meeting prior to and including the August Hockey Council. 

d.      Determination of Low Number:

Upon registration the League assigns a number to the registration.  These are done in the date/time order in which they were received.  Mail is time and date stamped when it is put through the sorting machine, fax prints it, and walk in we use the office clock.

e.       Priority Requests:

1.      To play for a Parish you asked for in the previous season but did not receive.

2.      Sibling Unification.

3.      Child was not granted the Parish he requested in the year prior.

4.      A child played MD the previous year and wants to come back to House League, provided they do not try out for the current season.

f.        Non Priority Requests:

1.      Want to play with my friend.

2.      Want to play for Coach X – please remember that rule 2:18 d.iv applies to transfers to a Parish of a select team official.

3.      Moved and this is my schools' church.

4.      Played MD in the previous season, tried out for MD this season and did not make the team, or chose not to take the spot – provided his House League registration was paid in full on time.

g.       Tampering:

Team Officials and Parish executive are not to ask players/parents to switch to their Parish. 

h.       Letter Players Include:

MD, AE, A, AA, AAA, Chaos (any level) – MD is considered a letter player based on the chart that ALLIANCE and OMHA use for seeding in tournaments and the interlock the governing bodies use.

      i.         A Full Team:

A full team is 15 skaters and 2 goalies.  In Tyke and Novice where we do not have goalies it is 16 players.  A team is not to have more than that number unless approved by Hockey Council.

j.        Player Allocation Day Procedure:

1. Each Parish will do a blind draw to determine ‘Parish Order’.  Any time Parish order is needed this order will be used.  Once the order has been used, the next Parish that would have been used will be the 1st in the order the next time.

2. We will work from the tyke division to the bantam division.  Midget player allocation will follow on another day.

3. # of teams in the division will be determined. 

Tyke and Novice:

The goal is to put 16 players per division, so we will take the # of registrations and divide by 16.  That will tell us how many teams.

7 teams – 112 players max.

6 teams – 96 players max.

5 teams – 80 players max.

Atom/Peewee/Bantam/Midget:

The goal in these divisions is 15 skaters and 2 goalies per team

To determine the # of teams we will take the number of registrations for the division, subtract the # of goalies and divide by 15.

10 teams – 150 players max.

9 teams – 135 players max.

8 teams – 120 players max.

7 teams – 105 players max.

6 teams – 90 players max.

The total number of teams in all divisions cannot exceed the budgeted total number of teams for that year.  Example – we may have budgeted for 6 teams in each division, if we have 4 in one division and 8 in another that is fine, as the total number of teams in the League has not changed.

4. A Parish must have a minimum of 5 players requesting them in a division (other than tyke or in novice) to be granted a team.

Determination of how Parishes receive 1st, 2nd and subsequent teams. 

All Parishes are to receive one team prior to any Parish receiving multiple teams.  If there are not enough teams to give each Parish a team,

It will be asked if any Parish does not want a team in that division.  If all want a team – the Parish with the least # of returning players plus priority transfers requesting that Parish will not receive a team.

Parishes to receive a second team are selected based on the Parish with the most returning players and priority transfers selecting that Parish.  A Parish cannot count players requesting a transfer out of their Parish.

All Parishes are to receive 2 teams prior to a Parish receiving a third.

5. # of players per team to be determined.

Once we know how many teams in the division we will determine the # of players per team by taking the total # of players and divide by the total # of teams.

The Parish Order will be used to determine which teams take the additional players (ie 2 teams need to take 16 and 5 teams 15).

6. Goalies are to be populated first.  Each team is to have one goalie prior to a team having 2.   Each Parish is to have a minimum of one goalie prior to a Parish with multiple teams having 2.

7. Skaters allocated per team based on the following order.

1. Priority Card

2. Returning Player Low #

3. Transfer Request – Priority

4. Sibling of a returning player – sibling is new to League

5. Transfer Request – Non Priority

6. New Players

7. Late Registrants (regardless of returning or new)

8. Identification of lettered players.  Letter players are to be distributed evenly throughout the League.  Each team is to have 1 lettered player prior to a team receiving 2, providing they have space.  A Lettered new player cannot displace a returning player/transfer request/or sibling.  Once all teams have 1, then all teams will be given a 2nd, and so on until all lettered players are distributed. 

Go back to step 3 and repeat for the next division.

9.  Once player allocation is completed, there is no movement of players within House League.  If a player does not want to play for the team they are allocated to, they will be refunded their registration fee.

10.  Players who register after the player allocation day will be populated to teams through the VPA. 

            1.  The Parish which does not have as many players as the other Parishes.  All teams will be brought to the same number of players, and then all teams will be given another player, and so on until a team is full.

            2.  The Parish in the draft order who is next in line for a player

NOTE: Lettered players who register after – and the Parish next in line already has a lettered player, will go to the 1st Parish in the order that does not have the lettered player provided they have room.

11. Goalies who register after the player allocation day will be populated to teams through the VPA

12.  Teams who lose a goalie after player allocation day will be re populated a goalie by

            1. The team will be given a goalie who registers after player allocation day and has not been allocated as of yet.

2. A goalie on the waiting list

3. If there is a team which has 2 goalies, moving the last registered goalie from that team will be moved to the team needing a goalie.

4. If there are multiple teams with 2 goalies, the last registered goalie in the League allocated as the 2nd goalie to a team will be the goalie moved.

5. If there are not enough goalies, the League will develop a rotation schedule with all willing goalies in that division.

13.  Significant changes:

If a Parish deems something a significant change after Player Allocation day, then the Parish leader would bring the issue to Hockey Council.

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2:16 CYO Select Program

a.       Select Team Representation:

All age divisions of House League from Novice to Juvenile are eligible to form a “House League Select Team” to participate in Hockey Canada sanctioned exhibition games and tournaments.  The VPE will manage the House Select program and can appoint a Convener to represent him/her in all matters pertaining to the program.

b.      Team Selection:

House League players from the applicable age group and team officials would form the Select team. Ideally, a minimum of 2 players from each Parish team should be selected to form a roster of 17 skaters and 2 goaltenders.   AP players and goaltenders are included in these numbers.  AP players & goaltenders are only to be asked if they will be used on the team. 

c.       Coach Selection:

All Head coaches will be voted on by Hockey Council and must receive a majority vote to be approved.  In addition to this:

i)                 *Head Coach – must be a current member of the CYO, or, a former member in good standing.  They must hold an  NCCP Level Coach Certification and a minimum 2 years coaching experience with CYO.  Coaches will submit their application (form found on the CYO website) to the VPE for consideration in the October Hockey Council meeting. 

ii)                 Assistant Coaches – must be current coaches within the CYO with a minimum 1 year coaching experience in CYO and  hold current coach certification cards.

iii)              Trainer – CHA Level 1 Trainer Certification and a minimum of 1-year training experience with CYO and must be present at every game and practice.  The trainer will ensure that a fully equipped safety kit is taken to all games and practices. 

iv)              Manager – Capable of coordinating schedule and managing team finances, and hold relevant certification.

* If  a satisfactory current member, is not available  to be a select head coach, the  hockey council , may approve a non-member to become a head coach, with this person to become a member, and be bound by all CYO  rules and By-Laws for the term of their appointment.

d.      Player and Team Selection:

i)        Select tryouts are open to all players and goaltenders who are interested in trying out for the team.  Selection should be based on good behaviour and sportsmanship in addition to their ability to play at this level, as these players will be representing the St. Catharines CYO in their travels.

ii)       Four ice times, each one hour in length, will be supplied to the coaching staff to allow for team selection.  Each participant must pay the League established tryout fee.

iii)     All select teams must have a minimum of 12 players and 1 goalie by the final tryout or the team is folded for the upcoming season.

iv)     Any child playing in the CYO select program may not transfer to the parish of any member of the select coaching staff in the following year.

e.       Ice Time Rules:

Players are permitted to participate in both House League and select activities which occur on the same day.  If a House League game is scheduled for the same time as a select activity, the player must play the House League game.  However, if a House League practice is scheduled at the same time as a select activity, then the player may participate in the select activity if he/she desires.  If a player chooses to go to his/her House League practice rather than the select function or vice versa, he/she shall receive no discipline from either team for missing either activity but shall notify the coach in advance. 

f.        Team Rules:

You must present your team rules to the VPE and/or the Convener before having them approved by the parent group. 

g.       Team Schedule:

i)        The CYO will provide each team with 9 one hour practices and 3 exhibition games consisting of three 10 minute periods.  Minor Midget to Juvenile games will be 10-15-15 in length. 

ii)       Practices and home exhibition games must be scheduled so that they do not interfere with regular League play (and practices).  Away exhibition games must be scheduled to avoid conflict with the League schedule.

iii)     All tournaments and Exhibition games must be approved by the Convener or VPE before submitting to the CYO administrator for final approval.  Failure to do so will result in the game not being played.

iv)     Unless game sheets have been handed in, no further travel permits will be approved.  Should there be a back log of game sheets not returned, future travel permits may be suspended.

h.       Select Schedule Limitations:

i)        Teams will be registered with the ALLIANCE as a “Roster” team and play within its limitations as set by the ALLIANCE.  The same process used to roster a House League team will be used to roster a Select team.

ii)       The House Select teams from Novice-Midget will be allowed to play 30 games including tournaments, but excluding the ALLIANCE Select Championships, as mandated by ALLIANCE Hockey.  Juvenile select is a wait and see and will focus around the ALLIANCE Championships only.

iii)     Select teams cannot schedule a tournament during the March Break week (from Fri to Sun covering all 10 days) without permission from the Convener.  The Select teams cannot schedule exhibition games during Championship week (the week when the semi finals are played and the Championship game on Saturday).

iv)     If a team has played more than 30 games before attending the ALLIANCE Championships that team will not be allowed to attend the ALLIANCE Championships and the team will no longer be approved to play in any exhibition games or tournaments for the rest of the current season. 

i.         Select Team Fees:

i)        All costs required to participate in House League Select play shall be borne by the select team participants in addition to their prepaid CYO basic Select fees and the basic CYO House League fees.

ii)       The prepaid CYO Select fees will cover the cost of 9 practices, 3 exhibition games, and the entry fee for the ALLIANCE House Select Championship Tournament, as well as ALLIANCE fees and administration fees.  When the teams are created and they meet to vote on the Budget all League fees must be paid before any ice time will be given to the teams.

iii)     All teams must produce a budget for team activities, which must be pre-approved by a majority vote of all players’ parents/guardians and the respective House Select Convener and/or the VPE.  An estimated budget is to be presented to the families before the final selections.

iv)     Any fundraising must be approved by the Convener and/or VPE and requires 100% approval by the parents in order to do so.

v)      Team budgets will be approved and reviewed by the VPE.

j.        Uniforms:

The CYO Central Stores will provide approved St. Catharines CYO Avalanche away jerseys.  Purchases necessary to outfit teams will be charged to the select team as applicable.  Socks and white jerseys can be ordered through the approved supplier.  Players are able to keep the white jerseys at the end of the season.

It is recommended that mouth guards must be worn by all players.

k.      Suspensions:

Any suspensions issued in League play or select play will carry-over to each League according to O.H.F. guidelines.  All suspensions received during select League play must be reviewed by the VPI before a return to play is granted. Suspensions must be communicated immediately to the VPE/Select Convener.  Game sheets from tournaments and exhibition play must be submitted to the CYO office to be reviewed before the next house league or select game is played.  Failure to submit game sheet will result in the refusal of future travel permits.

       l. Body Contact:

In the Peewee division and above, a body contact clinic is required prior to the final team selection.  Select teams may not participate in body contact games without team participation in CYO approved Body Checking Clinic.

      m.     Select League Convener:

At least one Convener can be appointed by the VPE to oversee all select teams Novice to Juvenile.

      n. ALLIANCE Select Championships:

Eligible Select teams must participate in the annual ALLIANCE Select League Championships.  All fees and costs required to participate will be included in the signing fee paid to the league.  This ensures that the CYO office enters the teams early with all fees paid for this tournament.

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2:17 CYO Minor Development Program


a) Having been elected or appointed, no person is disqualified from office as a Program Director or Assistant Director of any CYO MD Hockey Association due to the fact they are not selected as a member of the coaching staff or their child is not selected as a player within the teams of the CYO MD Hockey Association.

b) No person will be guaranteed of a coaching position or as a player within the teams of the CYO MD Hockey Programs the following season because they or their parent, have been elected or appointed as a Program Director or Assistant Program Director of any CYO MD Hockey Association.

c) All MD teams must have a minimum of 12 players and 1 goalie by the final tryout or the team is folded for the upcoming season.

d) After the tryout process and start of any CYO MD Hockey Program, a
player may only return to the CYO House League program on or before November 30th
of the current season. The player will then be allowed to return to the House League
team, which lost a player due to his/her vacant spot on the MD team. If no replacement player is required then it will become the decision of the Hockey Council as to where this player will participate within the CYO House League Program. No refund of MD Association fees will be granted as a result of the player’s desire to stop participating in the CYO MD Hockey Program.  Players playing in the MD program who decide to move back to HL, after January 15th must pay the full HL registration rate less insurance. MD will not forfeit any of their fees back to the player.

e) After the House League player allocation day, no player may be removed from a Parish (House League) roster to a MD roster without it being voted on and approved by hockey council.  A MD team may however AP up to 19 players without approval. 

f)  St. Catharines Rep Hockey Player Limitations:
Any player who has played more than four games during the current season or the immediate previous season for any Rep Team (including Jr. Falcon’s, Warriors, CYO MD Hurricanes) and registers to play in the CYO House League after the CYO Player Distribution meeting must comply with Rule 2:16 and will be assigned to the team in the appropriate division that is lowest in the standings (if League play has commenced) which has room to accommodate the player.

2:18 Equipment Requirement

 C.S.A. approved helmet (with ear protectors)

 C.S.A. approved facial protector (full cage or full visor)

 B.N.Q. approved throat protector (collar or bib type)

 Athletic support cup (male)

 Athletic jill strap (female)

 Hockey pants

 Shoulder pads

 Elbow pads

 Garter belt (or combination undershorts)

 Shin/knee pads

 Hockey gloves

 Hockey socks/Jersey (League Approved)

 Skates/Hockey Stick

2:19 Changes to these Rules and Their Application
Within these Rules “CYO Hockey Season” means the annual period of time commencing with the convening of the first Player Assignment Meeting and ending at the conclusion of the last House League game on CYO Championship weekend, but excludes any Minor Development or Select team activities and the ALLIANCE Provincial Championships.

These rules may not be altered during the CYO Hockey Season. However, the VP of Internal Operations may submit a recommendation to suspend, waive or limit the application of any of these rules in a particular situation where it is of the view that the normal application of a rule has an unduly harsh impact upon any person during each CYO Hockey Season. This recommendation will be applied unless it is defeated by the Hockey Council with a unanimous vote less one.

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