Player Conduct and Discipline Policy

Purpose

The LZMW Yeti Hockey Club strives to hold all members of our community to a higher standard of conduct, including players, coaches, and families. This policy outlines the standards of conduct expected from all players, coaches, and team staff, both on and off the ice. Our goal is to promote respect, sportsmanship, accountability, and a positive team culture that represents our organization with integrity.

1. Adhere to the Code of Conduct

As outlined in the Player Code of Conduct signed at the beginning of the season, all players and team personnel are expected to:

• Demonstrate respect toward teammates, coaches, officials, opponents, and spectators at all times.
• Compete with integrity and maintain control of emotions, regardless of the game situation.
• Follow the rules of hockey, league regulations, and team policies.
• Represent the team positively during practices, games, tournaments, travel, and any team-related events.
• Avoid unsportsmanlike behavior, including taunting, fighting, or verbal abuse.
• Refrain from the use of alcohol, drugs, or inappropriate behavior.

2. Attendance and Commitment

• Players are expected to attend all scheduled practices, games, and meetings unless excused by a coach.
• Notify a coach or team manager as early as possible if you will miss a session.
• Consistent attendance and effort are part of maintaining good standing on the team.

3. Disciplinary Action

Violations of team rules, league regulations, or conduct expectations may result in disciplinary action, which could include:

• Verbal or written warning
• Suspension from practices or games
• Removal from the team roster

4. Suspensions

• Any player receiving a Game or Match Misconduct Penalty will automatically have the incident reviewed by the club’s Rules & Ethics Committee.
• Following review, the player may face additional club levied suspension(s) beyond the automatic (e.g., USA Hockey’s state affiliate - AHAI, and/or our league, IHSHL North Central) suspensions, depending on the nature and severity of the infraction.
• Repeat or severe offenses (e.g., USA Hockey Zero Tolerance violation, fighting, abuse of officials, or unsportsmanlike conduct) may result in multi-game suspensions or removal from the team.
• Suspended players receiving an AHAI Match Misconduct Penalty are not permitted to participate in any club activities until an AHAI review has been concluded [see USAH rule 405(c)].
• Suspended players serving an AHAI and/or IHSHL N/C Game Misconduct penalty are not permitted to participate in games during their suspension period but may attend team activities at their Head Coach’s discretion [see USAH rule 401(c)].
• Suspended players serving any additional club discipline may be allowed on the bench during games and attend team activities at their Head Coach’s discretion.

5. Appeals

• Players may request a meeting with the LZMW Yeti Rules & Ethics Chair and/or Club President to discuss disciplinary actions.
• Formal appeals to AHAI and/or IHSHL N/C must come from the Club President.
• All decisions are made with the intent of maintaining fairness, accountability, and a positive team culture.