Bearcat Hockey Club Parent & Player Policy – 2027 Season
- Disciplinary Removal:
If a player is removed from the program due to disciplinary actions related to the behavior of the player or their parent(s), no refund will be issued, and the player will not be permitted to participate further.
- Voluntary Withdrawal by Parent:
If a parent chooses to remove their player from the program at any time, no refunds will be given, and any outstanding balances will be subject to collection notices.
- Harassment of Staff:
Harassment toward Bearcat staff members, whether verbal, written, or through electronic communications (email, social media, text), is strictly prohibited and is grounds for immediate removal from the program.
- Payment Responsibilities:
All program fees must be paid according to the payment schedule. Failure to meet payment deadlines may result in suspension or removal from the program until accounts are current.
- Attendance Policy:
Regular attendance at games is expected. Excessive absences without prior notice may impact playing time and participation.
- Player Injury Reporting:
Parents must promptly inform coaches and staff of any injuries or medical conditions that could affect the player’s participation and safety.
- Equipment and Uniforms:
Players are responsible for maintaining their own equipment and uniforms in good condition. Lost or damaged items may incur replacement fees.
- Code of Conduct:
All players and parents are expected to adhere to the Bearcat Hockey Club Code of Conduct, promoting respect, sportsmanship, and a positive environment.
- Communication Protocol:
All team communications should be directed through appropriate channels such as team managers or designated coordinators to ensure clear and consistent information flow.
- Travel Policy:
When attending away games or tournaments, parents are expected to comply with team guidelines regarding curfews, supervision, and conduct.
- Photography and Media Release:
By participating, you agree that Bearcat Hockey Club may use photographs and videos of players for promotional and social media purposes unless you provide written notice opting out.
What to Expect from Bearcat Coaches:
Our Bearcat coaches strive to help players develop as athletes and individuals. They aim to foster a passion and respect for hockey, emphasizing that lessons learned in sport apply beyond the rink.
- Philosophy: Work hard, play with discipline, respect opponents and officials, represent Bearcat with class, and have fun! We emphasize outworking opponents in all aspects.
- Player Development vs. Winning: We aim to give players equal ice time to promote growth in all facets. During critical situations (power play, penalty kill, matchups), lineups may be adjusted to maximize team success.
- Discipline: Respect for teammates, opponents, coaches, and officials is mandatory. Players not meeting expectations will face consequences, including sitting out shifts.
- Fun: We encourage players to enjoy the game and develop a passion by having a positive experience on and off the ice. Misbehavior will result in lessons and consequences to uphold team goals.
Bearcat Expectations of Parents:
- Support & Messaging: Please encourage your player to listen to coaches. Reinforce that hard work, discipline, and commitment lead to improvement. Avoid “coaching” from the stands or during car rides to prevent confusion.
- Positive Reinforcement: Your encouragement is vital. Learn about hockey, share experiences, and ask questions rather than giving direct instructions to your player.
- Safe Sport Commitment: All coaches and team managers are Safe Sport and USA Hockey certified. We enforce a zero tolerance policy on sexual misconduct, abuse, bullying, threats, harassment, or misconduct of any kind. Violations lead to immediate suspension. Learn more and report concerns at USA Hockey Safe Sport.
- Officials: Do not yell at officials, as it negatively affects players and the team and will not change calls. Respecting officials promotes a positive environment.
- Game Time Arrival: Players must arrive at least 1 hour before game time to prepare and participate in warm-ups and team meetings.
- Locker Room Access: Access is restricted to head and assistant coaches, team managers, and those with valid Safe Sport certifications. Coaches will assist young players in getting ready as needed.
- Game Behavior: Fans must model respectful conduct to maintain Bearcat’s reputation. Positive support is encouraged; negative yelling or confrontations are not acceptable. Avoid engaging with opposing teams’ parents or players aggressively.
- Hotels: Players must follow curfews, limit activities like swimming when instructed, and maintain good nutrition. Teams must leave hotel areas clean and respectful to ensure continued welcome.
Addressing Concerns:
- To discuss concerns about your child or the program, contact the Team Coordinator to arrange a meeting or call with the head coach.
- Discussions about playing time or depth charts will not be held via email or TeamSnap.
- Please wait at least 24 hours after a game or incident before raising issues.
Bearcat Expectations of Players:
- Work hard with maximum effort in practices, drills, and games.
- Skate through the whistle and hustle on shift changes.
- Listen attentively to coaches.
- Respect parents, opponents, coaches, and officials.
- Be a positive teammate in all circumstances.
- Represent Bearcat proudly regardless of the outcome.
- No bad language or negative attitudes.
Player / Parent Contract:
By participating in Bearcat Hockey Club programs, both players and parents agree to the following:
- Inappropriate behavior during games, practices, or hotel stays by players or parents will lead to disciplinary action, including possible barring from events.
- Harassment or misconduct will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
- Any dismissal from the program due to code violations will result in a zero refund policy.