Chicago River Dogs

 

By enrolling in and participating in a River Dogs program, each player and family agrees to abide by the River Dogs organization’s conduct requirements and disciplinary process. 

 

The following is a list of prohibited behaviors that will result in disciplinary action by head coaches, the River Dogs organization, and/or USA Hockey:

Verbal and Emotional Abuse: Using obscene, vulgar, or abusive language, taunting, Hazing  or demonstrating dissatisfaction with a coach’s or an official's decision. 

Physical Aggression:  Engaging in or inciting fighting, aggressive physical contact, or intentionally injuring another player. 

Disrespect and Disruption:  Disrespecting coaches, officials, or other players, or engaging in negative/harmful actions like bullying or harassment. 

The team’s head coach is responsible for implementing appropriate discipline for minor infractions.

For severe/repeated infractions, the following disciplinary process shall apply:

First offense: Verbal warning and discussion with player and guardian(s).

Second Offense: One (1) game and one (1) practice suspension and written warning. 

Third Offense: Penalty may range from a (3) games suspension plus practices. 

Fourth Offense: Player is suspended from all on ice and off ice activities until there is a meeting with Rules and Ethics to discuss the disciplinary issues of the player and if removal from the program.

Official Penalties: Players who commit infractions during games may be given penalties by the officials on the ice.  If a player receives a game misconduct penalty or suspension, the River Dogs organization will also apply the following disciplinary process:

First offense: Verbal warning and discussion with player and parent.

Second Offense: For each suspension imposed by the league, the River Dogs organization will add a second suspension. (For example, a one (1) game league suspension will become a two (2) game suspension; a two (2) game league suspension will become a four (4) game suspension.

Match Penalties: If a player receives a match penalty the player is out of all activities for 30 days until AHAI Rules and ethics decides the correct punishment along with investigation from River dogs R&E.

 

• I will conduct myself in a respectful manner and will represent my team and the horned frogs to the best of my ability.
• I know that swearing/abusive language on the bench, in the rink, or at any team function is not appropriate and will conduct myself accordingly.
• In the event I receive a penalty, I will skate directly to the penalty box without negatively speaking at/to the referee, fans, players, or coaching staff.
• I know that fighting is not tolerated and will conduct myself accordingly.
• I know the use of any illegal substances (i.e., Tobacco, alcohol, vape products, Juul, etc.) is forbidden and I will conduct myself accordingly.
• I will treat all horned frogs (teammates, coaching staff, managers, etc.) with respect and assist them in performing to the best of their ability.
• I know that disruptive behavior in the locker room, waiting for and during practice &/or games will not be tolerated and I will conduct myself accordingly.
• I know that the use of social media (Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.) in a negative manner will not be tolerated and will conduct myself accordingly.
• I know that the use of cell phones is not allowed in locker rooms and I will conduct myself appropriately.

• I accept the responsibility to provide positive support, care, and encouragement for my child participating by following the parent’s code of conduct.
• I will help my child enjoy this sport’s experience by doing whatever I can, such as attending as many games as possible, being a respectful fan, respecting decisions made by the organization and the coaching staff and moving the club in a positive direction.
• I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, officials, and fans with respect.
• I will encourage good sportsmanship, positive support for all players, coaches, fans, officials at games, practices, and at club events.
• I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my child ahead of my personal desires to win.
• I will support coaches and officials working with my child to encourage a positive and enjoyable team experience for all.
• I will do my best to make this sport fun for my child. I will attempt to relieve competitive pressure, not increase it.
• I will remember this organization and the game is for the players.
• I will conduct myself in such a manner as to bring positive feedback to our athletes, facility, sponsors, and the community.
• I will refrain from undermining or spreading ill. I will refrain from passing on gossip, rumors, and innuendoes which would or could destroy team morale or cohesiveness.
• I will support the 24-hour rule. Parents are not allowed to discuss athletic concerns with the coach for at least 24 hours after the issue arises at a game. I will schedule an appointment with the head coach if necessary.
• Recognize the importance of volunteer coaches. They are important to the development of your child and the sport. Communicate with them and support them. If you enjoy the game, learn all you can about hockey - and volunteer.