THUNDER BAY, ON – Hockey Northwestern Ontario, is proud to announce the Respect in Sport Parent program will be used in the branch, effective for the 2016-2017 season. A parent or guardian of all Novice and Atom age players including any new registrants in the Peewee to Midget age categories will be required to complete the one hour online program by November 1st, 2016.
Respect in Sport is an accessible, online resource in the prevention of bullying, abuse, harassment, and discrimination (BAHD). The program’s mission is to empower participants to recognize signs of BAHD and eliminate it from the game, through a global culture of respect.
“We already provide education for the volunteers in our game, the Respect in Sport Parent Program will help to provide the parents with the necessary tools to deal with any situations they encounter in the minor hockey journey,” said Glenn Timko, HNO President. “Some of our members are already using the program and have seen a reduction in parent related issues once the program was implemented,” said Trevor Hosanna, HNO Executive Director.
The program cost is $12.00+HST and is available immediately through the HNO website.
“Respect Group is pleased to partner with the HNO, who are joining the majority of Hockey Canada Branches and the rest of Ontario who have made the Respect in Sport Parent Program, a requirement. The intention of the program is to provide education to parents which helps good parents, become better sport parents,” said Mark Allen, Respect Group’s Ontario Director. “The program is aimed at helping to keep the game fun and safe for kids, and to support coaches, referees and the numerous volunteers who make youth hockey possible in Canada,” says Allen.
Respect Group was co-founded by former NHLer Sheldon Kennedy in 2004. It partnered with the Canadian Red Cross to create a best-in-class e-learning curriculum for mass consumption. Participants are certified through a 60-minute on-line program, they can do from anywhere with internet access.
About Hockey Northwestern Ontario
Hockey Northwestern Ontario is the governing body for all amateur hockey from White River to the Manitoba boarder ranging from minor to senior hockey including the Superior International Junior Hockey League. Hockey Northwestern Ontario has approximately 50 member organizations representing over 5,000 participants in our jurisdiction. All players are coached, officiated and developed through the teachings and education that Hockey Northwestern Ontario provides.
About Respect Group
Respect Group offers several respect-focused programs for sport, schools and the workplace. To-date, Respect Group has certified over 600,000 Canadians on the prevention of abuse, bullying and harassment. Founded in 2004 by partners Wayne McNeil and former NHL hockey player Sheldon Kennedy, Respect Group programming has been developed in consultation with the Canadian Red Cross to protect youth, empower leaders, and create positive school, sport and work environments.
For more information please visit www.respectgroupinc.com
