‘Respect in Hockey’ is one of the most important aspects of the sport that we love. The Ontario Minor Hockey Association is committed to creating a safe community for our membership through Respect training and strive to make hockey an enjoyable place for everyone.
 
Players, coaches, parents and associations can work together to create a positive and welcoming environment for all those who participate in hockey.
 
At least one parent or guardian of each player registered in minor hockey in the OMHA is required to complete the Respect in Sport - Parent Program as a condition of participation. The one-hour online course is a proactive, educational program that empowers parents with the tools to ensure the game is enjoyable and respectful for themselves, their children and all other stakeholders in the game. Team Officials, On-ice Officials and On-ice volunteers will be required to complete the online Respect in Sport - Activity Leader Program. These are one-time courses and do not need to be taken again if already completed in a previous season.

Additionally, the Lacing Up program is a fun, online, game-based activity that Novice players are encouraged to check out. It helps them learn the fundamentals of being a successful, respectful young hockey player. Lacing Up focuses on the skills players need to know off the ice to stay healthy, play fair, support their teammates, respect officials, and contribute positively to their team.

This hour long program, which parents are encouraged to take along with their child, covers key elements of the game:

• Long Term Player Development, including; growth and development, nutrition, hydration, and sleep.
• Playing fair, including: the Hockey Canada Fair Play Pledge, respect for teammates, officials, and opponents and recognizing that everyone makes mistakes.
• Recognizing and dealing with bullying, including: types of bullying, what to do about bullying if you are the target or if you see it happening.
• Respect for the game, each other, and ourselves.

Young players experience all of this through the stories, adventures, quizzes and games played with five young animated characters, their coach and Puckster.