Hockey Canada Dressing Room Policy

Dear SHC Families,

As some of you may or may not have heard, Hockey Canada has recently updated their dressing room policy which applies to all minor hockey teams sanctioned by Hockey Canada and its member associations from U7-U18.  SHC, which includes the Fillies, Mustangs and Sting are all sanctioned by Hockey Canada and we must abide by this policy.  Here is the POLICY for your review but in a nutshell it says the following:

The updated policy includes a “minimum attire rule,” with the goal of respecting privacy and making dressing environments more inclusive.  Hockey Canada requires that players wear minimum attire in a dressing room when surrounded by at least one other person.  It recommends that players arrive at the arena wearing a base layer (shorts and t-shirt, compression shorts and shirt or sports bra).  However, should a player arrive without a base layer, they’re to get changed in a private area, such as a bathroom stall, before joining the rest of the team in the dressing room and putting on their equipment.  This policy is for all dressing rooms whether they are co-ed or all of the same sex.

The policy also speaks to having showers after practices and games.  It is recommended that when showers are not private stalls, that these be used in a manner that respects the privacy of all participants. When in open concept showers, it is encouraged that all athletes wear certain “minimum attire” at all times, including swimwear. In order to facilitate this, participants could use a private restroom stall to change out of their base layer and into their swimwear prior to using the shower. Similarly, they could dress in a private restroom stall after they have completed their shower. Coaches and/or team staff should ensure they are able to supervise the dressing room while participants are showering, following ‘Rule of Two’ guidelines.

I bolded the words "recommended" and "encouraged" so all parents, players and coaches know that putting on a swimsuit to shower is, at this point, NOT mandatory.  However, if a player chooses to wear a swimsuit to shower, coaches will need to make sure that these players can do so without fear of bullying, harassment and/ or ridicule.

I would ask that all parents have a conversation with their children to discuss this updated policy and to ensure they all understand what this means going forward.  This will also help our coaches when they address their teams at their next practice or game. 

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Sincerely,

Gene Connors

President

Sturgeon Hockey Club