ATIKOKAN MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATIONThe Constitution

Amended and accepted Apr.27/2010This document supersedes all previous documents

Table of Contents

Article #1: Interpretation.............................................................................................................1

Article #2: Authority....................................................................................................................1

Article #3: Non Profit Organization.............................................................................................1

Article #4: Objectives.................................................................................................................2

Article #5: Membership..............................................................................................................2

Article #6: Executive ..................................................................................................................36.1 Definition.....................................................................................................36.2 Elections.....................................................................................................3

Article #7: Protection of Directors/Officers.................................................................................37.1 Limitation of Liability...................................................................................37.2 Indemnities to Directors/Officers.................................................................4

Article #8: Meetings...................................................................................................................48.1 Regular General Meetings..........................................................................48.2 Executive Meetings.....................................................................................48.3 Annual Meeting...........................................................................................5

Article #9: Rules of Order for all Meetings.................................................................................69.1 General Rules.............................................................................................69.2 Amending a Motion.....................................................................................69.3 Withdrawing A Motion.................................................................................79.4 Tabling A Motion.........................................................................................79.5 Motions Null And Void................................................................................79.6 Notice Of Motion.........................................................................................7

Article #10: Protests...................................................................................................................810.1 Procedures.................................................................................................8

10.2 Appeals...................................................................................8

Article #11: Amendments to The Constitution............................................................................8Article #12 Abuse of Alcoholic Beverages, Drugs, Harassment andBullying........8Atikokan Minor Hockey:

Article #1: Interpretation

1.1 This organization shall be known as the Atikokan Minor Hockey Association (AMHA) and will be hereinafter referred to as the “Association”.

1.2 In the by-laws and in all other by-laws of the association hereafter passed unless the context otherwise requires, word importing the singular number of the masculine gender shall include the plural number of the feminine gender, as the case may be, and vice versa, and the references to the personal shall include firms and associations.

1.3 The head office of the Association shall be in the Township of Atikokan, in the Province of Ontario, or as the directors may from time to time determine.

Article #2: Authority

2.1 This Association is also affiliated with the Hockey Northwestern Ontario Association, which is hereby recognized as the governing body for Amateur Hockey in Northwestern Ontario.

2.2 This Association has full and complete jurisdiction over all minor hockey within the Association's geographical boundaries.

2.3 This Association shall have full jurisdiction over all teams in the Association including but not limited to:

1. Initiation Program 2. Novice3. Atom4. Pee Wee5. Bantam6. Midget

Article #3: Non Profit Organization

3. The Association is a non-profit organization operating without financial gain for its members. Any profit to the Association will be used solely for

promoting its purposes.

Article #4: Objectives

4.1 To govern and administer hockey in accordance with the Association’s Articles, By-Laws, Resolutions, Rules and Regulations.

4.2 To form, operate and improve organized IP1, Novice, Atom, Peewee, Bantam and Midget Hockey in the town of Atikokan, under the authority of “Hockey Canada” and Hockey Northwestern Ontario.

4.3 To foster among its members, supporters and teams a general community spirit.

4.4 To maintain and increase interest in the game of hockey.

4.5 To have and exercise a general care, supervision and direction over the playing interest of teams and players under the Association's control.

4.6 To control the inventory of all hockey equipment purchased by or donated to the Association.

4.7 To be responsible for all monies donated to or earned by the Association.

4.8 To teach young amateur players in hockey the following:

1. To respect all game officials.2. To respect other players and coaches, both on their own team as

well as on the opposing teams, for their skill and mutual interest in minor hockey.3. To play cooperatively and supportively with their team mates.4. To enjoy hockey for the physical and mental fitness it can generate

and the camaraderie and friendships it can foster.5. To refrain from fighting and abusive language at all times.6. To strive for personal excellence in executing hockey skills.7. To encourage sportsmanship and enjoyment in all aspects of

training and competition, regardless of the sport.

Article #5: Membership

5.1 Membership in the Association shall consist of all Officers, Directors, Parents/Guardians of a carded player, Officials, Convenors, Coaches, Managers and Trainers of teams governed by the Association. All members shall comply with the constitution and abide by all policies and/or procedures. All members shall accept the authority of all governing bodies. The governing bodies being Hockey Northwestern Ontario and Hockey Canada.

5.2 AMHA reserves the right not to accept for membership any person if it has reason to believe that such acceptance would be prejudicial to the fulfilment of the beliefs as stated in Article #4 of this Constitution.

5.3 AMHA reserves the right to revoke the membership at any time of any person who conducts himself or herself in a manner that is prejudicial to the maintenance of a wholesome environment in which the game of hockey can grow and be an asset to those who enjoy playing the game. Such action may result in player or team official being refused the right to continue.

Article #6: Executive

6.1 Definition

The Executive of the Association shall consist of twelve (12) Directors, the Secretary and the Treasurer who shall manage or supervise the business and affairs of the Association. Two of the Directors shall be appointed for the Officer positions of President, Vice President of the Association.  In the event that the Officer positions of Secretary and/or Treasurer are not filled, two of the Directors will be appointed to fill those positions..

6.2 Elections

1. The Directors will be elected each year at the annual meeting, two of whom shall be elected as the following Officers:

(a) President(b) Vice President

2.  The Secretary and Treasurer will be appointed by the Directors each year at the annual meeting.  If there are no candidates for one or both of these positions, they will be appointed from the eleven Directors

3. Any person who has a current membership in the Association shall have the privilege of nominating a candidate for the position of Director or Director/Officer.

4. The term of office for all Directors and Director/Officers will be one year.

Article #7: Protection of Directors/Officers

7.1 Limitation of Liability

No Director/Officer, for the time being of the Association, shall be liable for the acts, receipts, neglects or defaults of any other Director/Officer, employee or official of the Association or for any loss occasioned by any error of judgment or oversight on his part or for any other loss, damage or misfortune which may happen in the execution of the duties of his office. But nothing herein shall relieve any Director/Officer from the duty to act in accordance with the regulations or from any liability for any breach thereof.

7.2 Indemnities to Directors/Officers

Every Director/Officer of the Association shall from time to time be indemnified and saved harmless by the Association from and against all costs, charges and expenses that he sustains or incurs in respect of the affairs of the Association.

Article #8: Meetings

8.1 Regular General Meetings

1. FrequencyRegular General meetings shall be held monthly during the each month on

a day determined by the Executive.(a) Members are welcome to attend regular general meetings of the

Association. They may voice their opinions or questions subject to the Rules of Order for all meetings as outlined in By-Law #4, but are not eligible to vote.

2. QuorumA quorum shall consist of a simple majority of the Directors.

3. VotingThe following are a list of eligible members who can vote.

(a) Life members.(b) Honorary members.(c) Board of Directors

(d) There will be no proxy votes.(e) No person shall have more than one vote. Voting shall be by a

show of hands unless the meeting decides on a ballot.

8.2 Executive Meetings

1. FrequencyExecutive meetings may be held when required.

2. QuorumA quorum shall consist of a simple majority of the Directors.

3. RecommendationsRecommendations may be made and brought to the next general meeting

for action.

8.3 Annual Meeting

1. Frequency

(a) The Annual meeting will be held on or before the 15th day of May in each year at a time and place to be announced.

(b) Notice of the Annual meeting shall be publicized at least fifteen (15) days in advance. Information about the agenda can be obtained from the secretary.

(c) The order of business will be:

1. President’s report2. Treasurer’s report3. Special business requiring approval of the Executive4. Old business5. New business6. Election of new Executive

2. Quorum

A quorum shall consist of a simple majority of the Directors.

3. Voting

(a) Members are welcome to attend the Annual General meetings of the Association. They may voice their opinions or questions subject to the Rules

of Order for all meetings as outlined in By-Law #4.

(b) All members of the Association shall be eligible to make and second motions.

(c) All members of the Association are entitled to make nominations.

(d) All members of the Association shall be eligible to vote.

(e) There will be no proxy votes.

Article #9: Rules of Order for all Meetings

9.1 General Rules

1. An individual must be recognized by the Chair before obtaining the floor to make a motion. This means that the Chair must tell a person that it is his or her turn before that person can speak to the Executive and formally propose a course of action.

2. Once an individual has the floor, he or she may make a formal proposal, or motion, beginning with the statement “I move that.....”.

3. Before the motion can be considered, another individual must second the motion by saying “I second the motion”. This does not necessarily indicate that he or she agrees with the proposal, only that it should be discussed.

4. Once a motion has been made and seconded, the chair restates the motion (states the question) so that everyone clearly understands what is being proposed. From this point until the motion is voted on, all discussion must focus on the question.

5. If members of the group wish to discuss the motion, the Chair opens debate. Each participant may speak to the question twice, but no one may speak a second time until everyone has had a chance to speak once.

6. If no one indicates a desire to speak further to the issue, the Chair asks if the members are ready for the question (ready to vote on the motion). The Chair then puts the question and conducts the vote by asking for those in favour and those opposed. The vote may be conducted by a show of hands, by standing, or by secret ballot.

7. In case of a tie, the motion is defeated.

9.2 Amending a Motion

1. Until the Chair states the question, the person making the motion may change it, although the seconder may withdraw and the changed motion may need another seconder. Once the question has been stated, however, the motion can only be amended formally in one of the following ways:

(a) The person making the motion may propose to change it. The Chair will ask if anyone objects. If someone does object, the question to change the motion is put to a vote. If the group consents to the change, debate continues on the motion as amended.

(b) Someone else may move to amend the motion by saying, “I move to amend the motion by....”. Then the normal process for a motion, as outlined above in the General Rules section, is followed.

(i) An amendment to the amendment may also be proposed, but a third amendment is out of order.

(ii) After the amendment has been dealt with, discussion returns to the original motion.

9.3 Withdrawing A Motion

1. At anytime before a vote, the person making the original motion may ask to withdraw it. The motion to withdraw does not require a seconder. Once the question is withdrawn, it is as if it had not existed.

2. If the Chair has already stated the question and a request to withdraw the motion is made, the Chair asks if there is any objection. If there is none, the motion is withdrawn. If someone objects, the request to withdraw the motion is put to a vote.

9.4 Tabling A Motion

1. A motion to table a motion means to set it aside to discuss at another time so that more pressing business can be discussed or more information about the issues can be obtained. The following rules apply to tabling a motion:

(a) The motion to table takes precedence over the motion being discussed

(b) The motion to table requires a seconder.

(c) There can be no debate on a motion to table.

9.5 Motions Null And Void

1. Any motion that contradicts provincial laws and regulations, CAHA or HNO rules, or local Constitutional authority is out of order, even if it was voted on and passed by a majority vote.

9.6 Notice Of Motion

1. Notice of motion must be submitted in text form, included in the previous meeting agenda and recorded in the minutes of the previous meeting no less than 14 days prior to the meeting at which the motion will be voted upon.

2. All motions which require specific action to adopt, amend, revise or repeal any Article, By-Law, Resolution, Rule or Regulation require a notice of motion.

Article #10: Protests

10.1 ProceduresA protest may be filed by any association member when the member

alleges that an article, by-law, resolution, rule or regulation of the Association has been violated.

1. The person with the protest must attempt to resolve the concern with the assistance of the Head Coach, Convenors and the Executive.

2. If the protest remains unresolved after “#1” above, the member with the protest shall communicate the concern in writing to the Executive.

3. The Executive at its next regular meeting shall appoint a panel consisting of five (5) Directors to investigate the protest and recommend solutions to the Executive.

10.2 AppealsAny appeals by any member must be accompanied by a $100.00 deposit

within a 24 hour period of said incident to the secretary. Appeals will be heard by a 3 member panel and shall follow the guide lines of the HNO appeals process.

Article #11: Amendments to The Constitution

11.1 Alterations or amendments to Articles and By-Laws (The Constitution) can only be made at the Annual Meeting by a vote of at least two-thirds majority of the voting membership.

11.2 Notice of motion for the proposed alterations or amendments shall be

given to the Secretary in writing at least 14 days before the day of the meeting and the Secretary shall forthwith notify the Executive of the proposed changes.

Article #12: Abuse of Alcoholic Beverages, Drugs, Harassment, Bullying

12.1 Alcoholic Beverages and Drugs

The use of alcoholic beverages or drugs by team officials or players prior to or during an official function of the AMHA is prohibited. Any team official or player found in violation of the above shall be subject to a suspension of up to one year.

12.2 Harassment, Abuse and Bullying

It is the policy of AMHA that there shall be no harassment, abuse, bullying and neglect, whether physical, emotional or sexual as defined by Hockey Canada of any participant in any of its programs. AMHA expects every parent, volunteer and staff member to take all reasonable steps to safeguard the welfare of its participants and protect them from any form of maltreatment. AMHA adopts Hockey Canada’s policy, as it applies to our Association, for the procedures for reporting and reviewing complaints. Anyone found guilty of harassment, abuse or bullying shall be subject to a suspension of up to one year.

By-LawsDuties of Director/Officers

Table of Contents

By-Law #1: Duties of the Directors.............................................................................................1

By-Law #2: Duties of Officers.....................................................................................................22.1 President.....................................................................................................22.2 Vice President............................................................................................22.4 Secretary....................................................................................................22.5 Treasurer....................................................................................................3

By-Laws #3: Amendments.........................................................................................................4Atikokan Minor Hockey: By-Law #1Duties of Director/Officers

By-Law #1: Duties of the Directors

The Directors of the Association shall be responsible for but not limited to:

1. Having control over all affairs of the Association. All decisions will require an affirmative simple majority vote.

2. Supporting the objectives of the Association.

3. Organizing and holding regular general monthly meetings that are open to the public.

4. Attending all meetings.

5. Having full power to make motions.

6. Having full power to vote on motions.

7. Sitting on and/or chairing various committees.

8. Imposing and enforcing suspensions and/or penalties for any violation of the Articles, By-Laws, Resolutions, Rules and Regulations of the Association.

9. Making financial decisions relevant to the aims and objectives of the Association.

10. Classifying teams in the Association as follows, but not limited to:

A) Initiation Program 1B) NoviceC) AtomD) Pee WeeE) BantamF) Midget

11. Determining the size and composition of all teams.

12. Receiving the recommendations of committees and act on them accordingly.

13. Hearing requests for player releases and making decisions relevant to the requests.

14. Organizing and holding publicized annual meetings for members of

the association. 15. Approving and controlling the collection of dues, fees, and any funds collected on behalf of the Association.

16. Clarifying any Article, By-Law, Resolution, Rule or Regulation.

17. Having the power to fill any vacancy which may occur in its members.

18. Having at their absolute discretion the power to declare vacant any Executive position left vacant for two (2) consecutive regular meetings, and having the power to fill such vacancy at the next regular Executive meeting.

19. Ensuring that a duly audited annual financial statement is prepared for the Annual Meeting. (If this deadline cannot be met then an audited financial statement should be presented at the first general meeting in September.)

By-Law #2: Duties of Officers

2.1 President - Within the jurisdiction of the Association the President shall have all powers of the President of the Branch, and shall be responsible for but not limited to:

1. Acting as signing officer of the Association.2. Presiding at all meetings.3. Exercising the powers of the Executive in case of emergency. Such

action shall be subject to ratification by the executive committee at the next scheduled general meeting.

4. Setting dates for the Annual meeting and convening any special meetings as the need arises.

5. Appointing an Executive nominating committee.6. Writing a summary report for the Annual meeting.7. Sitting on all committees as a voting member.8. Chairing the Budget Committee.9. Serving on the Discipline Committee.

2.2 Vice President - In the absence of the President the Vice President shall have and exercise all the powers of the President. As well he shall be responsible for but not limited to:

1. Being one of the signing Officers.2. Sitting on any and all committees as designated by the President of

the Association.3. Chairing on the Coaches Committee.

4. Preparing a list of suitable coaches willing to volunteer their services for the pending year and submitting this list to the Executive for its approval.

.

2.3 Secretary - The Secretary shall be responsible for but not limited to:

1. Keeping an accurate record of the proceedings of the Association including but not limited to minutes, agendas, attendance and motions, by-laws, etc..

2. Being to all intents and purposes the legal holder of all trophies and cups in trust of the Association.

3. Notifying the Executive Officers of the time and place of meetings.4. Publishing the Notice of the Annual Meeting at least fifteen (15)

days before the meeting and posting general meeting dates.5. Performing such other duties as shall be necessary for the good

and welfare of the Association.6. Sitting as the chair of the Registration Committee and coordinating

all phases of player registration.7. Keeping a register of all players in the Association.8. Handling all liability claims, seeing that they are properly

processed.9. Sending a list of Convenors names and addresses to all

neighbouring Associations.10. Posting on the first Monday following a meeting, a copy of the

minutes of that meeting on the Arena bulletin board and distributing copies to all Executive members.

11. Being one of the signing Officers.

2.4 Treasurer - The Treasurer shall be responsible for but not limited to:

1. Keeping a record of all monies received and disbursed.2. Presenting at each Annual Meeting, a report of the year’s

operations.3. Preparing a duly audited annual financial statement for the Annual

Meeting. (If this deadline cannot be met then an audited financial statement should be presented at the first Executive meeting in September.)

4. Serving on the Budget Committee.5. Being the primary signing officer.6. Applying for any and all licenses for fund raising activities and

preparing final reports as necessary.

By-Law #3: Amendments

3.1 To adopt, amend, revise or repeal any Articles of this By-Law notice of

motion must be made.

3.2 Notice of motion must be made at any Annual, Regular General or Special General Meeting.

3.3 The Secretary shall communicate the proposed amendments to all concerned parties as soon as possible.

3.4 The motion will be entertained at the next Annual, Regular General or Special General Meeting held at least 14 days after the Notice of Motion.

Procedures/Duties of Officials

Table of Contents

By-Law #4: Appointment of Officials.........................................................................................1

By-Law #5: Duration of Appointment.........................................................................................1

By-Law #6: Duties of Officials....................................................................................................16.1 Referee-in-Chief.........................................................................................16.3 Division Convenor.......................................................................................16.4 Head Coaches............................................................................................2

Article #7: Amendments.............................................................................................................3Atikokan Minor Hockey: The Procedures/Duties of Officials

By-Law #4: Appointment of Officials

The Executive shall appoint officials for the following positions1. Referee-in-Chief2. Equipment Manager3. Division Convenors4. Head Coaches

By-Law #5: Duration of Appointment

The appointed Officials shall hold their positions for one (1) seasonal term.

By-Law #6: Duties of Officials

6.1 Referee-in-Chief - The Referee-in-Chief shall be responsible for but not limited to:

1. Preparing a list of suitable referees for the pending year and submitting this list to the Executive for its approval.

2. Appointing referees for all games, and, his appointment shall be final.

3. Appointing goal judges for play-off games upon request.4. Appointing a certified referee other than on the approved list only

when he cannot secure the services of one on the list or for special circumstances considered in the interests of the Association.

5. Through the aid of clinics, training and supplying sufficient referees to satisfy the demands of the Association.

6. Having the authority to recommend the dismissal of a referee deemed to be incompetent.

7. Serving on the Disciplinary Committee.

6.2 Equipment Manager - The equipment manager shall be responsible for but not limited to:

1. Being responsible for the issue, control and collection of all the Association’s hockey equipment.

2. Preparing for the Executive an inventory of all equipment owned and possessed by the Association.

3. Preparing for the following year, a list of all equipment that needs to be purchased.

4. Arranging for the storage, repair and cleaning of any equipment.5. Communicating to the Executive the need for equipment purchases

and other relevant matters.

6.3 Division Convenor - The duties of a Convenor are many and varied. His primary function is to ensure compliance with the Association’s Articles, By-Laws, Resolutions, Rules and Regulations and, to see that proper procedures are carried out. The Convenor is in direct contact with the coaches, and the public. The Association is judged by the Convenor's organizational ability to handle and solve problems while meeting the needs of his division. Public relations and tactfulness are of the utmost importance. The division Convenor is responsible for but not limited to:

1. Attending all meetings of the Association.2. Being in charge of teams within their division.3. Developing routine schedule for his division, informing coaches

immediately of changes or variances.4. Reporting immediately to the President any infraction of Articles,

By-Laws, Resolutions, Rules and Regulations for remedial action.

5. Informing the Referee-in-Chief of referee requirements for regular scheduled and tournament games within his division.

6. Presenting to the Executive a preliminary budget for his tournament and obtaining approval to proceed.

7. Organizing home tournaments.8. Requesting HNO travel permits for all out of town games and

tournaments.9. Ensuring the division receives its entitled ice time. 10. Ensuring the division receives its entitled financial support.

a. Notifying players and parents of practice and game schedules as well as cancellations as far in advance as possible.

b. Requesting referees for games from the Convenor.c. With the convenor, coaches and parents assistance,

deciding as far in advance as possible, which out of town tournaments will be attended and requesting permission to attend same from the Executive. Requesting that the Convenor obtain necessary travel permits and arranging for necessary registration fee.

d. When travelling to tournaments, taking travel permits and Branch approved team registration certificates.

e. Instructing players re the proper care of association sweaters, socks, etc..

f. Collecting jerseys after every game (PeeWee, Bantam and Midget) and ensuring that all jerseys are turned in to the Equipment Manager at the end of the season11. Ordering trophies/medallions for season12. Updating and issuing letters of invitation to neighbouring associations to attend the Association's home tournaments13. Issuing thank you cards to all contributors/sponsors

6.4 Head Coach - The Head Coach is primarily responsible for directing and guiding the actions and efforts of his team. With his Assistant(s) and Convenor, he is responsible for the safety and conduct of the players on the team. He is responsible for but not limited to:

1. Ensuring that all Articles, By-laws, Resolutions, Rules and Regulations of the Association are followed

2. Attending all scheduled games and practices, or, ensuring a competent replacement.

3. Encouraging and assisting all players on his team in the development of good hockey skills and sportsmanship.

4. Be an exemplary role model when in the team’s presence (sportsmanship, language, etc.)

5. Appropriately disciplining players who use abusive language on or off the ice.

6. Not tolerating dangerous or unsportsmanlike behaviour.7. If the team’s physical safety is in danger, refusing to start the game

until problem(s) have been rectified (e.g. inadequate refereeing, poor ice, rink disrepair, etc.)

8. Becoming familiar with the Emergency Accident procedures of the Association.

9. Supervising the dressing room 15 minutes before game time.10. Removing players from the ice when ice preparations are

scheduled to begin and keep players off the ice until all ice preparation activities have ceased.

11. Supervising the dressing room 15 minutes after the game or practice has ended.

12. Involving the team in only those hockey events approved by the Executive.

13. Accompanying the team to all out of town tournaments and games or arranging for a competent replacement.

14. Ensuring that all players are properly and safely uniformed (see CAHA and TBAHA requirements) for all games and practices.

15. Reporting all accidents on the Accident Report Form and immediately forwarding the same to the Secretary.

16. Ceasing all activity on the ice surface and vacating the same at the scheduled time.

17. Enforcing all player disciplinary orders of the Executive.18. Enforcing all player disciplinary orders resulting from out of town tournaments and games.19. Taking immediate charge of any accident emergency or ensuring that a competent replacement does so.20. Carrying an approved First Aid Kit to all team activities.22. If a team contact person/convenor cannot be appointed, the coach/assistant coach will assume the responsibilities listed in 10 Convenor Duties above.:

By-Law #7: Amendments

4.1 To adopt, amend, revise or repeal any Articles of this By-Law notice of motion must be made.

4.2 Notice of motion must be made at any Annual, Regular General or Special General Meeting.

4.3 The Secretary shall communicate the proposed amendments to all concerned parties as soon as possible.

4.4 The motion will be entertained at the next Annual, Regular General or Special General Meeting held at least 14 days after the Notice of Motion.

Committees

Table of Contents

By-Law #8: Required Committees.............................................................................................1

By-Law #9: Composition of Committees....................................................................................1

By-Law #10: Duties Of Committees...........................................................................................110.1 Registration Committee..............................................................................110.2 Budget Committee......................................................................................110.3 Constitution Committee..............................................................................210.4 Coach Selection Committee.......................................................................210.5 Discipline/Protest Committee......................................................................2

Article #11: Amendments ..........................................................................................................2Atikokan Minor Hockey: By-Law #8Required Committees

By-Law #8: Required Committees

The following Committees shall be formed at the beginning of each new season:

1. Registration Committee2. Budget Committee3. Constitution Committee4. Coach Selection Committee5. Discipline/Protest Committee

By-Law #9: Composition of Committees

Each Committee listed in 1 above shall have at least three members and be chaired by an Executive member.

By-Law #10: Duties Of Committees

10.1 Registration Committee shall be responsible for but not limited to:

a. The coordination of the Association's registration.

b. The registration of all minor hockey players and coaches registering in the Association.

c. Maintaining a register of all players in the Association.d. Communicating to the Executive on all relevant matters.

10.2 Budget Committee shall be responsible for but not limited to:

a. Gathering all required information (i.e. ice rental rates for year, ice requirements, equipment requirements, registration and insurance cost)

b. Compiling the above information and preparing a preliminary budget to the Executive for approval.

c. Recommending to the Executive, rates for the current year's registration.

10.3 Constitution Committee shall be responsible for but not limited to:

a. Reviewing the constitution and recommending amendments, additions or deletions in time for them to be made at the Annual Meeting.

.

10.4 Coach Selection Committee shall be responsible for but not limited to:

a. The Association requirements for Head Coaches.b. From a list of interested people, making recommendations to

the Executive on the selection of Head Coaches.

10.5 Discipline/Protest Committee shall be responsible for but not limited to:

a. Reviewing the Association's suspension list for any required revisions and recommending these revisions to the Executive.

b. Promptly organizing any required meetings to deal with disciplinary infractions as they arise.

By-Law #11: Amendments

11.1 To adopt, amend, revise or repeal any Article of this By-Law notice of motion must be made.

11.2 Notice of motion must be made at any Annual, Regular General or Special General Meeting.

11.3 The Secretary shall communicate the proposed amendment to all concerned parties as soon as possible.

11.4 The motion will be entertained at the next Annual, Regular General or Special General Meeting held at least 14 days after the Notice of Motion.

  By-Law #12Initiation Program Guidelines

By-Law #12:

To promote and encourage a standardized progression or step by step approach to teaching the fundamentals of hockey, otherwise known as the Hockey Canada Initiation Program Curriculum. The AMHA agrees to adopt and follow Hockey Northwestern Ontario’s policies and guidelines with respect to the Initiation Program, including any successor policies and guidelines.

By-Law #13

AA Policy/Specially Affiliated Team

Table of Contents

By-Law #13-1: Creation of Team……………………………………………………………..1

By-Law #13-2: Coach Requirements …………………………………………………………1

By-Law #13-3: Convenor Guidelines …………………………………………………………1

By-Law #13-4: Tryouts/Ice Time/Team size…………………………………………………...1

By-Law13-1: Creation of Team

To create a AA team for Atom, PeeWee, Bantam and Midget leagues.

By-Law #13-2: Coach Requirements

A coach must have the HNO Level one coaching certificate. This will ensure that the coach is up-to-date with the policies and initiatives of HNO and AMHA.

The coach should not be involved with the “A” program and may have to leave this position while coaching the ‘AA’ program. This is to ensure that all kids are getting fair and equal ice time during the ‘A’ practices and that the coach doesn’t get too tired with the extra coaching that is involved with both programs.

A trainer may have to be brought over because of the courses involved, unless there are other trainers available

By-Law #13-3: Convenor Guidelines

A different convenor should be involved from the ‘AA’ program as well. This is to ensure that there are different signing people for the cheques and a different account set up for the ‘AA’ program. The convenor will be responsible for signing the team up for the tournaments and receiving the travel permits ($10 each). Plus ice time must be paid by the parents involved in this program since it will be outside of the regular hockey times. This is by going through the Vice President and the recreation department for times and prices. If no Convenor is available the Head Coach will be responsible for administrating all of this.

By-Law #13-4: Tryouts/Ice Time/Team Size

Try outs should involve two dates so that all players interested in get a proper chance to try out. A Head Coach, Assistant Coaches, Trainers and Convenors can be involved in choosing the team. The try-out dates should be in Nov. or Dec. at the latest since the team has to get approved by HNO by Jan 15 of the next year. The convenor/coach will bring the list of players for approval to the executive.

Minimum team size should be 12 players. (10 skaters and 2 goalies) This is an HNO Policy #2 Specially Affiliated Team Program and the rules of this policy should be followed.

You can try and get up to 3 hours ice time a week if available for practice. You can go on 8 exhibition games and 3 tournaments per year.

Under HNO policy an Association governing a Specially Affiliated Team will ensure that players fulfill ‘A’ commitments prior to participation on the ‘AA’ team. This will ensure that the ‘A’ program will not suffer due to formation of specially affiliated ‘AA’ team.

Fundraising and Sponsorship can’t compete with the ‘A’ league and must be brought forward to the board for approval before acting.

Regulations

Awards Policy………………………………………………………………………………..6

League Awards………………………………………………………………………………6

Participation Awards………………………………………………………………………...7

Team Awards ………………………………………………………………………………..7

Game Format…………………………………………………………………………………8

Team/Players…………………………………………………………………………………8

Rationale:

In promoting participation in its House League/Single “A” Hockey Programs, the Association recognises the need to maintain an awards policy that builds upon the realities of our community. Unlike larger associations that offer multi level hockey programs, A, AA, and AAA, the A.M.H.A. promotes a strong house league program that typically consists of two teams in each league or at times, only one team in a particular league. Whereas larger associations recognise high statistical achievements within much larger and select leagues, the A.M.H.A. believes that the following awards policy will better serve the players within our Association.

Philosophy

Within the financial limitations of the Association the awards process is intended to foster personal growth in the following areas;

(g) A lifelong desire to participate in hockey.(h) A sense of fair play and sportsmanship.(i) An appreciation of the offensive and defensive skills of the game.(j) A sense of dedication and commitment to the team, league and

Association.(k) An acceptance of all participants regardless of ability, genders, or ages.

Approach

Each year at the annual Wind-Up Banquet, the Board of Directors will co-ordinate an awards ceremony. Awards will be given out based on a prescribed set of criteria at each league level. The list of awards and league categories are summarised herein.

Section 1 – League Awards

(a) League Awards consist of; (i) a main league trophy that is updated annually with the recipient’s name and remains permanently displayed in the arena showcase, and (ii) for the Novice league, Esso Medallions ONLY will be awarded, 3 per team, these will be for the 3 categories and the criteria on which they are based on most dedicated, most improved and most sportsmanlike (iii) for the Atom to Juvenile leagues, a smaller trophy or plaque that is engraved with the recipient’s name and is presented to and remains in possession of the recipient.

(b) League awards will be presented in the Atom, PeeWee, Bantam, Midget and Juvenile leagues only, and are presented to individual players that best display five(5) categories of specific skills or attributes, within their entire league. The coaches in consultation with the league Convenor will determine selection of the league awards. The 5 categories and the criteria on which they are based, are listed below;

(l) Most Valuable Player (M.V.P.) – The player who combines skills, abilities, and character to make the most valued contribution to the league. Consideration will be given to contributions made on and off the ice. Ideally Association’s Awards Philosophy.

(m) Most Improved Player – The player who shows the highest growth in the 5 attributes outlined in the Association’s Awards Philosophy.

(n) Most Sportsmanlike – The player who bests demonstrates the qualities of fair play, team play, ability, and dedication, on and off the ice.

(o) Best Offensive Player – Ideally this player will demonstrate the 5 attributes outlined in the Association’s Awards Philosophy, while displaying high skills in the offensive aspects of the game of hockey. Although considered, selection will not be based solely on total points.

(p) Best Defensive Player – ideally this player will demonstrate the 5 attributes outlined in the Association’s Awards Philosophy, while displaying high skills in the defensive aspects of the game of hockey. Goaltenders and defensive players are eligible to receive this award.

Section II – Participation Awards

(q) Participation awards are given to all players in the Mighty Mites and Novice leagues and may consist of small trophies, medals, plaques or certificates, to be determined annually by the Board of Directors based on the financial situation of the Association.

Section III – Team Awards

(r) Team Awards will be presented in the Atom, and PeeWee leagues only, and are presented to individual players that best display three(3) categories of specific skills or attributes, within their own team. The team coaching staff will determine selection of the team awards. The team awards will consist of Esso Medallions or its equivalent, as determined by the Board of Directors. The 3 categories and the criteria on which they are based are listed below.

(s) Most Dedicated – The team player that most consistently attempst to demonstrate the 5 attributes outlined in the Association’s Awards Philosophy during games, practices, fund-raising, and other related league activities.

(t) Most improved – The team player that demonstrates the highest degree of growth in the 5 attributes outlined in the Association’s Awards Philosophy.

(u) (iii) Most Sportsmanlike – The team player that bests demonstrates a combination of fair play, team play, ability, and dedication, on the off the ice.

Game Format

(v) The frequency (weekly) and duration (hourly use) of ice time for each league shall be determined by the Board and arranged by the vice-president.

(w) In accordance with the frequency and duration of ice times, league convenors, in consultation with coaching staffs, shall determine a game format during regular season play, that will ensure optimum use of ice time, i.e; two(2) periods of twenty minutes each, three(3) periods of fifteen minutes each, etc.

(x) Convenors, in consultation with coaching staffs, shall also determine and schedule specific game nights and practice nights.

(y) Convenors shall ensure that the regular season is completed in sufficient time to adequately provide a playoff season if required.

Teams/Players

(z) No player shall be permitted to register in the Association after December 31st of each season, without the express authorisation of the Board.

A player may compete in a league above his/her own age group, if in the opinion of the coaches and the Board of Directors, he/she possesses the ability to do so safely and effectively. All players must register within their own group. Players wishing to move up a league will be given a two (2) week try-out in the first two weeks of the season. Coaches and Convenors must be informed of this movement. Following the try-out the coaches and convenors will meet to evaluate the appropriateness of a transfer and forward a recommendation to the Board of Directors for approval. The decision to allow a player to play “up” will be based on player safety and skill as well as the impact that the movement will have on the teams involved.

(aa) Any player competing in a higher league merely to provide a sufficient number of players, unless in the opinion of the Board, the player possesses the ability to compete safely and effectively at that level.

(bb) Any player competing in a higher league solely by choice, and playing in his/her own league as well, shall be required to pay an additional fee, in excess of his/her normal annual registration fee, as determined by the Board and outlined.

(cc) Every player, playing at the house league of “A:” level, shall be given the opportunity to play in regular season, playoff, exhibition, and tournament games.

(dd) There is a two (2) week tryout playing for any league. In the event a registered player has requested a re-imbursement of his/her registration fee, such request shall be denied except where, in the opinion of the Board it is deemed appropriate under the circumstances.

(ee) The Board is authorised to suspend the travelling privileges of any team refusing to adhere to the rules and regulations of the Association.

(ff) Due to the boards philosophies it is very important that each player attends as many games and practices as possible. It is the requirement of the child to notify the coach if unable to attend. Each team, child participates in tournaments, and is hoped that each child can do so safely and with the knowledge needed to play. To this the board requires that every player attends at least half of the house league games and half of the practices to be eligible to participate in tournaments. Any exemptions to this will be subject to the boards’ discretion.