Codes of Conduct and Participant Expectations

Overview

The Gloucester-Cumberland Ringette Association (GCRA) is committed to providing a safe, respectful, inclusive, and positive environment for all participants.

All players, parents/guardians, coaches, bench staff, volunteers, spectators, and Association representatives are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the values of Ringette Ontario, Ringette Canada, and GCRA.

Participation in GCRA programs is conditional upon compliance with the applicable Codes of Conduct and Association policies.

Respect in Ringette

GCRA believes that all participants have the right to enjoy ringette in an environment free from:

Harassment
Bullying
Discrimination
Abuse
Intimidation
Unsportsmanlike conduct

All participants are expected to demonstrate respect for:

Players
Coaches and Bench Staff
Officials
Volunteers
Parents and Guardians
Spectators
Opposing teams
Facilities and equipment

Parent & Guardian Expectations

Parents and guardians play a critical role in creating a positive sport experience for all athletes.

Parents are expected to:

Encourage and support all participants.
Demonstrate respect toward coaches, officials, volunteers, players, and other spectators.
Promote fair play, sportsmanship, and respect.
Refrain from abusive, aggressive, or disruptive behaviour.
Allow coaches and officials to perform their responsibilities without interference.
Follow all GCRA, Ringette Ontario, and facility rules and policies.

Athlete Expectations

Athletes are expected to:

Demonstrate good sportsmanship and respect for teammates, opponents, officials, and coaches.
Follow team, Association, and Ringette Ontario rules.
Participate honestly and fairly.
Refrain from bullying, harassment, discrimination, or abusive behaviour.
Contribute positively to the team environment.

Coaches & Bench Staff Expectations

Coaches, trainers, managers, and other bench staff are expected to:

Act as positive role models.
Place athlete development and well-being ahead of winning.
Create a safe and inclusive environment.
Follow Ringette Ontario coaching standards and Safe Sport requirements.
Treat all participants with dignity and respect.
Adhere to the Rule of Two and all applicable screening requirements.

Spectator Expectations

Spectators contribute significantly to the atmosphere of games and events.

Spectators are expected to:

Support athletes in a positive manner.
Respect officials and game volunteers.
Refrain from abusive language, harassment, or inappropriate conduct.
Promote a welcoming environment for all participants.

Acknowledgement Requirements

As part of the registration process, participants and/or parents may be required to acknowledge applicable Codes of Conduct and Association policies.

Failure to comply with these requirements may affect eligibility to participate in GCRA activities.

Discipline and Complaints

Violations of applicable Codes of Conduct may result in disciplinary action in accordance with:

GCRA Discipline and Complaints Policy
Ringette Ontario Discipline and Complaint Policy
Ringette Ontario Investigation Policy
Ringette Ontario Safe Sport Policies

Depending on the nature and severity of the incident, disciplinary measures may include education, warnings, suspension, removal from activities, or other sanctions deemed appropriate.

Ringette Ontario Codes of Conduct

The following Ringette Ontario Codes of Conduct apply to GCRA participants:

Participants are encouraged to review the applicable Code of Conduct prior to the start of each season.

Questions

For questions regarding participant expectations, discipline matters, or Codes of Conduct, please contact the Director of Safety, Discipline & Appeals.