This is a reminder for all Team Officials that teams are required to provide a ‘Pre-Season Chat’ with their players at the beginning of the hockey season. Officials must also complete the required Gender Identity and Expression online course which is attached to their E-Hockey profile.

The e-learning training is specific to Understanding Discrimination based on Gender Identity and Gender Expression and A Guide to the Confidentiality Policy and Dressing Room Policy. It is now important, and a requirement of their training, that this information be passed on to the parents and players of their team as Team Officials create a safe and inclusive environment for the coming season.

As various associations, clubs and leagues begin their seasons at differing times each year, there is not one date that can be established by which these discussions must occur. However, it is critical that the Pre-Season Chat take place at the outset of your season in order for everyone to be aware of the policy.

• Pre-Season Chat Checklist
• Pre-Season Chat Video Download
• Glossary of Terms
• Pre-Season Chat (Atom and Below)
• Pre-Season Chat (Peewee and Above)

The Pre-Season Chat will also be required at the beginning of each subsequent hockey season.

It is understood that some individuals may not have confidence or a comfort level in the content of the discussions. To be clear, the discussion is to be centered on parents and players maintaining the inclusiveness and respect of all individuals and providing explanation of the Dressing Room Policy as it relates to Gender Identity. If for whatever reason a parent/player is not willing to attend, it is not the association’s responsibility to force them to do so.

The PowerPoint slides and video can be utilized in the Pre-Season Chat, either as talking points or a formal presentation, however they should not be publicly displayed on websites, Facebook or any other on-line locations.

Please contact your Regional Director or the OMHA Office if you have any additional questions.