SAHA MINUTES BOOK 2016-2017 SEASON - SportsEngine...of SAHA during the 2015-2016 season, as well as SAHA’s plans and focus for the 2016-2017 season. Successful, we still need grass

SAHA

MINUTES BOOK

2016-2017 SEASON

Bill Medbery

SAHA Board Secretary

Southern Amateur Hockey Association

Annual Meeting of Registered Association Members

MINUTES OF ANNUAL MEETING

HELD August 13, 2016

The Annual Summer Meeting of Registered Association Members of the Southern

Amateur Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was called to order by President John Cox on

August 13, 2016 beginning at 8:25 am CST.

Meeting Location: Embassy Suites Hotel

800 Monroe Street S.W.

Huntsville, AL 35801

MEETING AGENDA

Call to Order – John Cox

Introductions, Roll Call and Seating of Association Member Representatives - John Cox

Publication of Officer’s Reports

President’s Report

Secretary’s Report

Treasurer’s Report

Registrar’s Report

Publication of Standing Committee Reports

ADM Committee Report

Audit Committee Report

College/University Committee Report

Disabled Hockey Committee Report

Discipline and Dispute Resolution Committee Report

Girl’s Committee Report

High School Committee Report

Junior Committee Report

Membership Growth Committee Report

Player Development Committee Report

SafeSport Committee Report

SYTHL Liaison Committee Report

Tier I Committee Report

Youth Committee Report

North Alabama Hockey Association Growth Presentation – Ralph Drensek

USA Hockey Goaltending Development Program – Erik Hudson

Nashville Predators – Liz Wardlaw

Grant Applications – Kevin Cook

Report on Annual USA Hockey Congress – Chris Powers

Coaching, CEP, Rules, ADM Update – Chris Powers

Disabled Hockey – Ed Ragland

Registrar Update – David Polk

Rostering Rules Process for 2017-2018 season – John Cox

SafeSport Program and Training, Bylaw Rule 10-C Update – Rich Bennett

Roll Call of the SAHA Board: Present were 2016-2017 SAHA Directors John Cox,

Richard Bennett, Ed Ragland, Bill Medbery, Don Stone, Jack Flynn, Ryan McCormack,

Paul Petrarca, Kevin Cook, Dennis McGuffie, Yan Kaminsky, and Tim McAlister.

Registrar David Polk, USA Hockey District Director Chris Powers, District Risk

Manager Ship Williams, and Adult Committee Chair Jill Rathert were also in attendance.

President John Cox introduced the Registered Association Members of the Association

and guests. The meeting attendance was 43 Association Members.

2016-2017 SAHA Board Elections – The following Board terms expired in 2016. All

incumbents were nominated to stand for re-election. There were no other nominations

for the Board positions, so the incumbents were unopposed. By proclamation, the Board

members were elected to a new three (3) year term for 2016-2017 year through the 2018-

2019 year.

• John Cox, Tennessee

• Ed Ragland, Alabama

• Bill Medbery, Georgia

• Paul Petrarca, Arkansas

Information Obtained during the Meeting:

Publication of Officer’s Reports and Publication of Standing Committee Reports:

John Cox reported that the Publication of Officer’s Reports and Standing Committee

Reports are available on the SAHA website.

President’s Report – John Cox presented his report on the affairs and accomplishments

of SAHA during the 2015-2016 season, as well as SAHA’s plans and focus for the 2016-

2017 season. Successful, we still need grass roots support to continue to grow the Sport.

All of the Reports for 2015-2016 season are available at the SAHA Website:

http://www.sahaonline.org

Secretary’s Report – Bill Medbery presented the Minutes Book which is the Minutes

records of the Annual Summer Meeting of Registered Association Members of the

Southern Amateur Hockey Association, as well as all SAHA Board meetings and

Conference Calls for the entire 2015-2016 year. The By-Laws were amended at the April

2017 Board Conference Call. The Minutes Book and the By-Laws are available on the

SAHA website at: http://www.sahaonline.org,

Treasurers Report – Don Stone presented the Treasurers Report for 2015-2016 season.

We did not spend our entire budget for the year. Ending asset balance is $118,042.53.

Don Stone presented a detailed 2016-2017 Budget for approval at the afternoon SAHA

Board of Director’s meeting.

http://www.sahaonline.org/

There was $28,007.20 spent for Membership Growth Grant awards, and Don encouraged

the Associations to seek developmental grants to accomplish their goals this season. The

Development Grant budget for 2016-2017 will be $36,600. SafeSport training grants are

also available in the next year budget is available for training. There has been funding

for 2 Hardboards per year for past two years, and budget for 2 more Hardboards for this

new season are available to non-profit organizations.

North Alabama Hockey Association Membership Development Recognition from

USA Hockey – NAHA President Ralph Drensek acknowledged USA Hockey’s award to

NAHA for the highest percentage conversion from Try Hockey for Free day in 2015.

NAHA was awarded 60 sets of gear by USA Hockey for conversion under the program.

Huntsville and Decatur were both very successful in converting new players into hockey.

USA Hockey Goaltending Development Program – Erik Hudson from Pelham, AL

gave a presentation about the new USA Hockey program to develop state of the art

goaltending coaching practices.

Little Preds Learn to Play - Liz Wardlaw from the Nashville Predators gave a

presentation about a new learn to play program sponsored by the Nashville Predators.

There will be cost and equipment support for up to 7 rinks to participate in the program.

Liz also presented the details of their free Coaching Symposium on Saturday October 1st.

The Nashville Predators have several programs available to spur hockey development

and ticket sales.

Grant Development Program – Kevin Cook presented the new ideas the Committee has

come up with for 2016-2017. See chart of the six different categories of Program Grants

available for 2016-2017 (hand written from Don Stone. Add SafeSport $5,000). There

will be up to 28 Grants totaling $36,600 in 2016-2017. The Committee will be

monitoring the accountability and performance of the Grants, but the traditional 75%

initial funding 25% upon documentation may not work as well this year. Funding

formats will be determined based upon the situation. The Grant Applications are on the

SAHA website and must be submitted to Kevin Cook by October 1st.

Annual USA Hockey Congress – Chris Powers reported that our District continues to

grow and we are either the third or fourth largest District in USA Hockey. The USA

Hockey website and the USA Hockey Annual Guide have been updated and changes are

highlighted.

The highlights are:

- Registrations continue to grow, the 3rd or 4th largest District

- Flex Hockey – less structured programs, none body checking, under USA Hockey

Insurance as long as the players are USA Hockey registered under a coaches

supervision

- New Tier II Program application was turned down

- Progressive Penalties focus has resulted in fewer penalties and fewer injuries

- Disabled Hockey expansion continues

- Multi-Affiliate League structure was complex and have withdrawn that structure

- Club Excellence- Online portal system that integrates Associations throughout the

Hockey structure.

- Finance Committee - Associations can invest funds under the USA Hockey

Foundation - $50,000 initial investment required which can be withdrawn on 30

days notice

- Tier I Hockey Discussion and new Rules – No Tryout for Tier I or Tier II until 48

hours after the last National Championship Game, nor conduct any solicitation

thereof. Violations can be dealt with severely.

Referee’s Report - Jim Dewhurst was in St Louis – John Cox reported that Jim

Dewhurst asked to have the contact for issues to be the local administrator.

Rich Bennett encouraged each Association President to register so that they will receive

game reports and Penalty notices. There has been a considerable increase in the Assault

of Officials 601(f), and USA Hockey has taken serious stances in this penalty type.

These type of penalties show a lack of respect of Officials. Referee’s calling games more

closely now and are resulting in Match Penalties. This infraction results in one year

suspensions from all USA Hockey involvement.

Chris Powers – PeeWee Tier II Tournaments during Tier I has been eliminated in 2017.

Tier I District Tournament will be in Huntsville this year.

No Team roster certification can occur until all Coaches required certifications are

in order. Games played without a proper roster certification will not count as

played.

Risk Management – Skip Williams reported on 1) the process to receive a Certificate of

Insurance requested by the Rinks, 2) Fair indemnity and responsibility clauses, 3)

Participant Accident Insurance, 4) Special Event Sanctions, 5) SafeSport qualifications

and Locker room monitors. (See Skip Williams Handout Information)

Player Development – Jack Flynn went over the purpose and process of Player

Development Camp sessions. SAHA Uses a different approach than the other Affiliates.

SAHA has an unbiased approach and high integrity. Over 200 kids attended in 2015 and

2016. 2016 participants were at the 2016 Camp in Atlanta at The Cooler. Independent

evaluators are recruited to participate in the process. Evaluators from the NE, and

Topeka participated. Lists include jersey colors and numbers, not names. It is 100%

unbiased, which is good but could be bad also. Good process, but not a perfect process.

This year we had a lot of feedback from parents and coaches asking why their children

did not make the selection. The Camp is volunteer driven. It would helpful to have more

of the association’s involvement in the process, especially to run the benches. 2015 was

the highest percentage of participants advancing in the blue gray games. 100% of the

proceeds are reinvested into the kids. In 2017 the Camp will be April 22 and 23 in

Huntsville and in Nashville in 2018.

Disabled Hockey – Ed Ragland reviewed the Disabled Hockey and Sled Hockey

programs, tournaments, and clinics for the 2016-2017 year. Sled Hockey growth

throughout the Affiliate has been in growth mode. Disabilities include physical and

mental disabilities. Military program growth has been strong. Veteran Wounded

Warriors have benefitted from the Sled Hockey Program and the Georgia Sled Hockey

program is listed with the Veterans Affairs Department as an adaptive rehabilitation

program. Blind Hockey is seeing some growth as well. The puck has ball bearings and

makes a sound, and the referees have a horn to warn goalies about shots on goal. USA

Hockey has a $250,000 grant process in $25,000 incremental for sled hockey acquisition.

Knoxville received a $25,000 grant which allowed them to introduce Disabled Knoxville.

Registrars Report –David Polk reported that the Southern District grew by 6.52%

versus USA Hockey nationally at 2.12%. His presentation was a recap of the 2015-2016

season with total registrations of 8,840, broken out by relevant age bracket. He then

presented the 2016-2017 registration process with an emphasis on good planning skills by

the teams to avoid last minute emergency processing requests. What is new for 2016-

2017: Flex Hockey, New Age 15 Classification, Disabled Hockey, Disabled Hockey

over 18, Background Screening, SafeSport renewals.

Proposed By-Law Changes for 2017-2018 for Travel Team Rostering Rules – John

Cox reviewed proposed changes to the SAHA By-Laws in junction with USA Hockey

Tier I changes discussed at the Annual Meeting in Colorado Springs. Tier II focus should

be community based. Rec Rosters should also support community based teams, not as a

mechanism to by-pass rules. There would be waivers exceptions process.

College and University – Paul Petrarca reported that the SEC Tournament and the

SAHA Showcase will be held February 10th 11th, and 12th 2017 at The Ford Ice Center

in Nashville. Showcase games are February 11th and 12th. In 2016, 200 kids applied for

80 slots. In 2016, 68 kids participated, and 24 of them went on the sign on with an SEC

Team. This will be the 6th season and 10 SEC teams will be participating. The SAHA

Showcase takes place the same weekend. SEC coaches coach the teams and there is an

All-Star game. This tournament has been strengthening the SEC and SAHA. Russ

Beatse asked that Hockey Directors please not to schedule games that weekend that

would prohibit a player from participating in the Showcase. The first thing the coaches

ask about is grades, not hockey ability. Russ asked for Tier I team support as well this

year. Applications are sent to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. 7 games over the

weekend. 68 players participated, and 24 made commitments to the Colleges. The cost

is approximately $100.00 for the students.

SafeSport Program –Richard Bennett presented the 2015-2016 SafeSport program

results covering pre-screening to prevent physical, emotional, and sexual abuse including

bullying, hazing, and harassment in Youth Hockey both on and off the ice. 89% of our

Coaches have been certified. 91% of Officials have been certified. We have seen a drop

in Volunteers, down to 48% certification.

A USA Gymnastics documentary film was shown.

USA Hockey takes the place of parents (‘in loco parentis”) while under the care of

hockey programs. It is designed to avoid known predators who might take advantage of

youth. USA Hockey requirements are that all coaches and volunteers with access to

student athletes, to complete the SafeSport training module prior to certification of their

team rosters. Please refer to the SafeSport presentation handed out at the meeting.

See Rich Bennett’s presentation for 2016-2017. The focus for 2016-2017 will be on

Locker room monitors.

Each Association must assign a Safety Director responsible for SafeSport and

Concussion Management compliance. Each Association must report the Safety Director

Coordinator assignment to Bill Medbery by September 1, 2016. Each Association should

also have a Disciplinary Dispute Resolution committee to address disciplinary issues.

SafeSport incidences will now be dealt with at the local level. Organizational issues will

be investigated by the SAHA Affiliate. The Officials will deal with on-ice issues. Off-

ice issues though the SafeSport process.

The USA Hockey Bylaw Rule 10 Hearing process is the process is used to investigate

any reported issues. The entire process is on the website:

www.sahaonline.org>resourses>Discipline/Disputes

Complaints increased in 2015 because there is now a process in place to deal with these

issues. Over 900 coaches and volunteers were trained in 2015.

No Team roster certification can occur until all Coaches required certifications are

in order. Games played without a proper roster certification will not count as

played.

Background screenings are required every two years for Coaches and Volunteers who

have access to the youth players.

The meeting was adjourned at 2:43 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary


MINUTES OF AUGUST 13, 2016 ANNUAL BOARD MEETING

HELD August 13, 2016

The regularly scheduled Annual Summer meeting of the Board of Directors of the

Southern Amateur Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was called to order by President John

Cox on August 13, 2016 beginning at 3:00 pm CST.

Meeting Location: Embassy Suites Hotel

800 Monroe Street S.W.

Huntsville, AL 35801

MEETING AGENDA

Call to Order

Roll Call

Election of Officer’s

Appointment of Standing Committees

Publication of Minutes

Old Business

New Business

Adjournment

Roll Call of the SAHA Board: Present were 2016-2017 SAHA Directors John Cox,

Richard Bennett, Ed Ragland, Bill Medbery, Don Stone, Jack Flynn, Ryan McCormack,

Paul Petrarca, Kevin Cook, Dennis McGuffie, Yan Kaminsky, and Tim McAlister.

Registrar David Polk, USA Hockey District Director Chris Powers, and Adult Committee

Chair Jill Rathert were also in attendance.

Election of SAHA Directors – John Cox (Tennessee), Bill Medbery (Georgia), Ed

Ragland (Alabama), and Paul Petrarca (Arkansas) were re-elected by their respective

States for a three-year term beginning in the 2016-2017 seasons.

Election of Officers: President John Cox called for nominations and seconds to elect the

Board’s Officers and Committee Chairs with results as follows:

President John Cox

Vice President Bill Medbery

Second Vice President Rich Bennett

Secretary Bill Medbery

Treasurer Don Stone

Appointment of Standing Committee Chairs:

American Development Model Curtis ‘Mo’ Morrison

Adult Dennis McGuffie

Audit John Cox

College/University Paul Petrarca

Disabled Hockey Ed Ragland

Discipline and Dispute Resolution Bill Medbery

Girls & Women’s Tim McAlister

High School- Jack Flynn

Junior Ryan McCormack

Membership Growth Kevin Cook

Player Development Jack Flynn

SafeSport Rich Bennett

SYTHL Paul Petrarca

Tier I Yan Kaminsky

Youth Jack Flynn


Secretary Report and Publication of Minutes– Secretary Bill Medbery published the

Annual Minutes Book, which contained the Minutes of the 2015 Annual Membership

Meeting and the Minutes from the Board’s August and Winter meetings as well as the

monthly conference calls during 2015-2016.

Treasurer Report –Don Stone presented the 2016-2017 Plan and Budget. A motion was

made and seconded to approve the Budget and Plan. The Budget and Plan was approved

with eight (8) approved adjustments from the presentation.

Old Business: None

New Business: None

The meeting was adjourned at 3:33 pm


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary


MINUTES OF Monthly Conference Call

September 18, 2016

A regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors of the Southern Amateur

Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday September 18, 2016 beginning at

8:00 pm EST/7:00 pm CST via conference call.

A quorum of the Board was not achieved. Present at the September 18 meeting were

2015-2016 Directors John Cox, Bill Medbery, Ed Ragland, and Dennis McGuffie, were

in attendance. Also in attendance was Curtis “Mo” Morrison, ADM Committee member.

It was subsequently learned that our conference call provider split us into two separate

calls tonight. In addition to the one call with Bill, Ed, Dennis, Mo, and me there was

another call with Chris Powers, David Polk, Paul Petrarca, Kevin Cook, Rich Bennett and

Russ Beatse. The meeting was rescheduled for Wednesday September 21 and then again

for Sunday September 25th, and the Minutes reflect the extended meeting.

Present for the Sunday September 25th meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill

Medbery, Rich Bennett, Ryan McCormack, Ed Ragland, Don Stone, Kevin Cook, Jack

Flynn, and Dennis McGuffie. Also in attendance were Chris Powers USA Hockey

District Director, David Polk, SE District Associate Registrar, and Mo Morrison ADM

Committee Chairman.

Conference Call Information: The conference call dial in number is (605) 562-3000. The

participant access code is 300310#.

MEETING AGENDA

Secretary Report

Treasurer Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business

- Club Excellence Update

- ADM Model Exception Request for the Atlanta Knights

Secretary Report –Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the August 13th Annual

Meeting of the Members and the SAHA Board meeting. Those Minutes were approved.

Bill Medbery discussed the rollout of USA Hockey’s Club Excellence program and has

communicated the program the all of the Association’s Presidents for implementation.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone reported that the IRS requires an amendment that upon

dissolution the financial resources be distributed to charitable sources.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk was traveling from Washington, DC during the

conference call Sunday evening. His written report issued in advance is as follows:

3,188 registered players and coaches

3,173 unclaimed registrants (think I will claim them all and I will have the controlling

vote!! JUST KIDDING

Teams:

As of 10am this morning we have:

71 approved teams

19 unapproved teams

4 supplemented teams

The 23 teams not on approved status are for birth certificates and coaches not having

completed their background screening and Safesport requirements. All have been

notified more than once. The next step will be to advise them the entire team is being

redlined and not to resubmit until ALL requirements are met. In the meantime, NO

games will be counted toward the 20-10 rule for national bound teams.

Please keep me informed as quickly as possible regarding the decision or whatever

regarding the mite playing up from another Affiliate, keeping in mind that USAH

requirements are that both Affiliates must approve it.

Thanks,

David

--

David F. Polk

Associate Registrar

Southeast District

Information Obtained during the Meeting and abbreviated Committee Reports.

Regular Committee Reports were suspended.:

Ed Ragland mentioned there was a September 30th Disabled Hockey event at the Ford Ice

in Nashville. October will have USA Hockey Sled Tournament. Contact Ed Ragland for

details

Development Grant Process - October 1st is the Grant Programs deadline to have

applications into Kevin Cook.

October 15th is the deadline for all teams to declare National Bound intentions.

SafeSport and Background screening are required every two years. In the prelude to the

2014-2015 season, SAHA did a good job of getting a high percentage of personnel

through the process. There is a need to renew everyone’s SafeSport and background

screening completed. Bill Medbery will send out a notice to all Associations about the

process. On Background screening processes, Data connection between databases is not

complete. Mo Morrison will contact Rich Bennett to get connected.

John Cox reported that Russ Beatse and the SYTHL would prefer to have the Annual

Meeting of the SAHA Members on the June 20h weekend to allow for better scheduling

of SYTHL games. There was a discussion and further follow up is needed.

ADM Model Exception Request for the Atlanta Knights - There was a discussion

about the Atlanta Knights 10 U A2 roster which was submitted with six (6) 8 U players

on the roster. The Atlanta Knights had submitted a brief written request stating that the 8

U play-ups would be needed in order to field a 10 U team due to numerous player leaving

the Maritta Ice Center and going to other rinks. After much discussion, the exception

requested was voted down unanimously.

The SAHA Calendar of Events for the next several months is as follows:

October

• Saturday October 1, 2016 – Deadline for member associations to submit SAHA

Developmental Grant applications

• Saturday October 8-9, 2016 – USA Hockey Girl’s Hockey Weekend

• Saturday October 15, 2016 – Deadline for member associations to declare Youth

Tier I, and Women’s teams as National Bound and for SAHA to report the

number of National Bound teams by classification and age level to SE District

• Saturday October 15, 2016 – Deadline for submitting G/W Game Count waivers

to District G/W Representative

• Sunday, October 16, 2016 - SAHA September Conference Call - 8pm

Eastern/7pm Central

November

• Tuesday November 1, 2016 – Last day to provide copies of all Federal and State

tax returns and all State Agency filings to Executive Director of USA Hockey

• Tuesday November 1, 2016 - Development Grant Applications reviewed by

Affiliate Grant Committee and recommendations submitted to Affiliate Board.

• Tuesday November 1, 2016 – Notification of ruling on Senior C Women’s

waivers and/or G/W Game Count waivers

• Tuesday November 1, 2016 – Last day to submit agenda items for USA Hockey

Winter Meeting

• Tuesday November 1, 2016 – Last day to submit proposals for USA Hockey rule

changes

• Sunday November 6, 2016 – Daylight Savings Time Ends

• Saturday November 12, 2016 – USA Hockey “Try Hockey for Free Day”

• Tuesday November 15, 2016 – Affiliate Questionnaire due to Vice President,

USA Hockey

• Tuesday November 15, 2016 – Deadline for SAHA to report the number of States

with National Bound High School teams to the SE District

• Tuesday November 15, 2016– Deadline for review of member association’s

SAHA Developmental Grant applications are complete, and committee

recommendations are due to the Board

• Tuesday November 15, 2016– Nominations open for annual election of District

Director (SE District Guide 6.d)

• Sunday November 20, 2016 - SAHA November Conference Call - 8pm

Eastern/7pm Central

• Wednesday November 30, 2016 – Deadline for Member Associations to submit

SafeSport Certification of Compliance letter to SAHA SafeSport Coordinator

December

• Thursday, December 1, 2016 – Deadline for member associations to declare

Youth Tier II teams as District Bound

• Thursday December 1, 2016 – Deadline for declaring Youth Tier II teams as

National Bound

• Thursday, December 1, 2016 – Notification and award of SAHA Developmental

Grants (75% award)

• Thursday, December 1, 2016– Last possible day for Tier II teams to remove

players from Tier II rosters for other than injury, financial, or disciplinary issues

• Sunday, December 11, 2016 - SAHA December Conference Call - 8pm

Eastern/7pm Central

• Saturday December 31, 2016 – Deadline for Affiliates to submit SafeSport

Certification of Compliance letter to USA Hockey

• Saturday, December 31, 2016 - Last day to change Youth (Tier I & Tier II), Girls

(Tier I & Tier II), and Women’s National Bound rosters

• Saturday, December 31, 2016 - Last day for SAHA to provide copy of current

bylaws, rules, regulations to member associations and to the Standing Director of

USA Hockey

• Saturday, December 31, 2016 - Last day for all coaches and referees to complete

and submit “Authorization to Release Information Form” and to be fingerprinted

• Saturday, December 31, 2016 - Deadline for all coaches (head and assistants) to

meet the minimum coaching education requirements as set forth in the USA

Hockey Annual Guide (Annual Guide Section V B (2) Page 139-140)

January

• Sunday, January 01, 2017 - Date that local associations are required to remove

from the roster all coaches (head and assistants) that do not meet the minimum

coaching education requirements as set forth in the USA Hockey Annual

Guide V.B (2) page 141

• Sunday, January 01, 2017 - Deadline for Declaring Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia,

Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee Youth Tier II teams as National Bound

• Sunday, January 15, 2017 - SAHA January Conference Call - 8pm

Eastern/7pm Central

• Sunday, January 15, 2017 - Deadline for State Directors to report Tournament

Committee Chair the number of national bound Tier II teams in each age group

and the date, location, format for their State tournament

• Thursday, January 12, 2016-to-Sunday, January 15, 2017 - USA Hockey

Winter Meeting Renaissance Orlando Sea World

• Friday, January 13, 2017 - 7 pm to 10 pm - SE District Caucus Meeting

during the USA Hockey Mid-Winter Meeting

• Tuesday, January 31, 2017 - Receive Block Grant Application from USA Hockey

For your ease of reference, the Committee Chairs for 2016-2017 are as follows:



Audit John Cox










SYTHL Paul Petrarca

Tier I Yan Kaminsky

Youth Jack Flynn

The meeting was adjourned at 8:43 pm EST, 7:43 pm CST on Sunday September 25,

2016.


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



October 2, 2016

A special meeting of the Board of Directors of the Southern Amateur Hockey

Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday October 2, 2016 beginning at 8:00 pm

EST/7:00 pm CST via conference call.

Present at the October 2nd special meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill

Medbery, Ed Ragland, Tim McAlister, Rich Bennett, Ryan McCormack, Yan Kaminsky,

Don Stone, Kevin Cook, Jack Flynn, and Dennis McGuffie. Also in attendance were

Chris Powers USA Hockey District Director, and David Polk, SE District Associate

Registrar

This was an informational meeting and a working session, not a regular meeting with 30

days advance notice. No voting on any issue took place in this meeting.

Conference Call Information: The conference call dial in number is (605) 562-3000. The

participant access code is 300310#.

MEETING AGENDA

ADM Model Violations – 8 U Players on 10 U Rosters for 2016

The following Associations submitted rosters for 2016 with 8 U Players on 10 U Rosters.

There had been a total of eight (8) Teams from five (5) Association with eighteen (18) 8

U players having been rostered:

Nashville Jr. Predators 9U:

Aliotta, Troy

Kim, Nicholas

Lohse, Hudson

Ozgener, Aidan

Huntsville 10U A2:

Penny, Ethan

Kennesaw 10U Minor:

Harper, Devin

Vayonis, Preston

Duluth 10 U Minor

Trent DiGiovani

Nashville Predators Select:

Prater, Christopher

Nashville Youth Hockey League

Clive Keeler

Atlanta Knights 10 U AA

Enzo Didomenicantonio Approved for Skill 9/20/16

Mark Tagg Declined CAHA Player

Atlanta Knights 10 U A2

6 Players not named in David Polk’s 9/20/16 email


John Cox gave a verbal update on the situation where David Polk had conducted an audit

and found that 8 U players that were submitted on 10 U rosters for the Associations listed

above. David Polk had subsequently redlined all 8 U players. John Cox felt that the

SYTHL schedule was at risk as a result.

John Cox mentioned that he had spoken with Casey Jorgenson, Counsel for USA

Hockey. Mr. Jorgensen’s advice was that SAHA execute uniform treatment across

Associations to insure fairness.

John Cox took responsibility for the fact the ADM Play-up policy and procedure had not

been well communicated since its inception in the 2013-2014 season. It is believed the

Associations thought they were following the rules. It appears to be a systemic issue.

Actions taken last week include the removal of the redline on player rosters so as not to

disrupt League activities and games while the situation is investigated and a resolution

decided. Bill Medbery sent a formal notice to each Association requesting information

.and if desired, a written request for exception on the 8U players

There was extensive discussion about the governance issues surrounding this situation.

Some of the proposed solutions could include:

1) Better Communication amongst the Board about our policies and awareness of the

Policies

2) Establish a Communication process with the Registrar about rule enforcement

3) Make our policies and rules more clear. This will likely require a re-write of the

Policies and inclusion of them in the SAHA By-Laws. Along with the need for better

By-Laws and communication, we will need a Process for everyone to follow.

4) There will need to be Accountability of the Associations for their actions in regard to

the policy

There was a suggestion that perhaps no more than 20 % of roster be 8 Us. There were

other ideas and potential formulas discussed as well.

Next Steps:

Bill Medbery to process any Exceptions that might result from his correspondence to the

Associations for the Board to Discuss at the October 16th Board conference call.

Chris Powers and Bill Medbery to work on proposed policy and procedure for Play-ups

to be considered for a By-Law amendment

David Polk and Bill Medbery to work to understand the MIC and Atlanta Knights new

roster which was submitted for a series of games with the Ice Bandits at The ICE the

weekend of October 1st.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:44 pm EST, 8:44 pm CST.


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



October 16, 2016


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday October 16th, 2016 beginning at


Present at the October 16th regular meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill

Medbery, Rich Bennett (abstain), Ryan McCormack, Tim McAlister, Yan Kaminsky,

Don Stone (abstain) , Paul Petrarca and Dennis McGuffie (abstain). Also in attendance

was David Polk, SE District Associate Registrar, Mo Morrison, ADM Committee

Chairman, and Russ Beatse, SYTHL President were in attendance.

Subsequent to the meeting, John Cox, President received notice from Free Conference

Call.Com that our Information had changed: The new conference call dial in number is

(641) 715-3680. The participant access code remains: 300310#.

MEETING AGENDA

Secretary Report

Treasurer Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business

- ADM Model Exception Requests from various Associations

Secretary Report –Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the September 18, 21, and

18, 2016 Board Conference Calls as well as the October 2nd Special SAHA Board

Meeting. Those Minutes were approved.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone had nothing new to report.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk had nothing new to report outside of the Age Bracket

Playup requests pending

Information Obtained during the Meeting - Committee Updates:

American Development Model – See Special Report under New Business.

Adult Committee – Ryan McCormack reported that a new Men’s League application

from Huntsville was pending with further information requested and to be reviewed.

Don Stone made an amendment to extend the timeframe for review for an additional

thirty (30) days. The motioned passed but Don Stone abstained from the vote.

Audit Committee – No Report at this time.

College and University Committee – No Report at this time.

Disabled Hockey – No Report at this time.

Discipline and Dispute Resolution – No Report at this time.

Safe Sport – No report at this time

Girls and Women’s Committee – No report at this time.

High School Committee - No Report at this time.

Junior Committee – No report at this time

SYTHL Report – No Report at this time.

Girls Committee – No Report at this time.

High School Committee–– No Report at this time.

Membership Growth Committee – No Report at this time.

Player Development – No Report at this time.

SYTHL Committee – Paul Petrarca reported that the SYTHL season was underway and

there are n issues. Russ Beatse reported that the SYTHL meeting would be held in

August 2017 in conjunction with the SAHA Annual Meeting of Members.

Youth Committee and District Tournaments – No Report at this time.

Juniors – No Report at this time.

Tier I – No report at this time.

Old Business – None

New Business: -

ADM Model Violations – 8 U Players on 10 U Rosters for 2016. David Polk had

conducted an audit and found that 8 U players that were submitted on 10 U rosters for the

Associations listed above. David Polk had subsequently redlined all 8 U players. Bill

Medbery sent a formal notice to each Association requesting information .and if desired,

a written request for exception on the 8U players. The following list of Play-up

exception requests were received:

The following Associations submitted rosters for 2016 with 8 U Players on 10 U Rosters.

There had been a total of eight (8) Teams from five (5) Association with eighteen (18) 8

U players having been rostered:

Nashville Jr. Predators 9U:

Aliotta, Troy

Kim, Nicholas

Lohse, Hudson

Ozgener, Aidan

Huntsville 10U A2:

Penny, Ethan

Kennesaw 10U Minor:

Harper, Devin

Vayonis, Preston

Duluth 10 U Minor

Trent DiGiovani

Nashville Predators Select:

Prater, Christopher

Nashville Youth Hockey League

Clive Keeler

Atlanta Knights 10 U AA

Enzo Didomenicantonio Approved for Skill 9/20/16

Mark Tagg Declined CAHA Player

Atlanta Knights 10 U A2

6 Players not named in David Polk’s 9/20/16 email

The SAHA Play-up policy was acknowledged, and it was determined the Associations,

through the Medbery communication process, had now fulfilled their requirement to give

SAHA notice of Play-up exceptions.

There was discussion about amending the SAHA By-Laws to address more stringent

Play-up rules for the 2017-2018 season.


November








Winter Meeting


changes




USA Hockey









Eastern/7pm Central



December




National Bound


Grants (75% award)




Eastern/7pm Central







USA Hockey






January








Eastern/7pm Central









February

• Saturday, February 4, 2017 - SAHA Winter Meeting:

11:00 am to 3:00 pm

Spring Hill Suites Chattanooga

495 Riverfront Pkwy

Chattanooga, TN 37402

Phone 423-834-9300

Fax 423-834-9301

• Friday, Saturday, Sunday February 10, 11, and 12th, 2017 - SEC Tournament and

College Showcase Events are scheduled at the Ford Ice Center in Nashville, TN.

• Wednesday, February 15, 2017 - Last day to change High School National Bound

rosters (Annual Guide IX.A.6.c - p148)

• Wednesday, February 15, 2017 - Youth Tier I Applications due for next playing

season (SAHA Bylaws Operating Rules, Policy, and Procedures Section 24.2.4)

• Wednesday, February 15, 2017 - Nominations open for election of District


• Wednesday, February 15, 2017 - Credential Books due for all SAHA National

Bound Youth Tier I and Tier II, High School, Girl’s, Women’s and District

Bound Youth Tier II

• Friday, February 24, 2017 to Sunday, February 26, 2017 - Hockey Weekend

Across America

• Friday, February 24, 2017 to Sunday, February 26, 2017 -SAHA Tier I and

Tier II Play-down




Audit John Cox










SYTHL Paul Petrarca

Tier I Yan Kaminsky

Youth Jack Flynn

The meeting was adjourned at 8:43 pm EST, 7:43 pm CST on Sunday October 16, 2016.


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



October 16, 2016


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday November 20, 2016 beginning at


Present at the November 20th regular meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill

Medbery, Tim McAlister, Yan Kaminsky, Ed Ragland, Don Stone, and Dennis

McGuffie. Also in attendance was David Polk, SE District Associate Registrar, Mo

Morrison, ADM Committee Chairman, Chris Powers, USA Hockey District Director, and

Brad Prefontaine from the Atlanta Knights Association.

The new conference call dial in number is (641) 715-3680. The participant access code

remains: 300310#.

MEETING AGENDA

Secretary Report

Treasurer Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business

- ADM Play up Status and Future Recommendations

- By-Law Amendment to conform with IRS 501(c)3 Status

- By-Law Proposal from Clayton Giffen, Nashville Junior Predators

- February Winter Meeting Notice Reminder

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the October 16, 2016

Board Conference Call. Those Minutes were approved.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone made a motion to accept a By-Law Amendment

following section 3.4 of the By-Laws. The motion was accepted and passed. The

following language is hereby incorporated into Section 3 of the SAHA By-Laws as a new

subsection 3.5:

“Upon the dissolution of this organization, assets shall be distributed for one or more

exempt purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code,

or corresponding section of any future federal tax code, or shall be distributed to the

federal government, or to a state or local government, for a public purpose.”

Mr. Stone reported the tax return is due on December 15th. The accountants will send a

draft and there will be a review period by the Board on December 13th. The Tax Return

will be filed on December 15th.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk reported that SAHA had 5,690 registered Players and

419 registered Coaches. Managers and Volunteers have not been totaled. There are149

approved Teams, of which 3 are approved with redline status as the Coaches have not

completed background screening. District Director Chris Powers asked how does that

compare to 2015? David Polk will research.

David Polk reported that District Registrar Mark Bodner’s health is not good, and he has

taken over his duties. All Registrar information for the District now needs to go to David

Polk. John Coleman is the Co-Treasurer and will take on those responsibilities. There

was a question as to whether there are any payments due to the District by SAHA? John

Cox and Don Stone to follow up on.

Information Obtained during the Meeting and Committee Updates:

American Development Model – Mo Morrison reported that there is a need for an

enhanced ADM Adherence Policy and a more robust Play-UP exception Policy in light of

the recent audit and number of play-up exceptions noted within SAHA. John Cox, Mo

Morrison, Chris Powers and Bill Medbery will review policy options for presentation at

the December Meeting. CAHA Policy to be considered.

Adult Committee – Ed Ragland reported on the new group in Huntsville, AL that

requested SAHA Membership. He reported that North Alabama Hockey Association

(NAHA) is against that group’s membership and tried to broker a potential solution. The

groups have not come together recently, and so the Tennessee Directors are not at a point

to make a recommendation to the SAHA Board. They are considered to be an organized

pick-up-game group. Three quarters of them play in NAHA currently. Most are

considered USA Hockey members. John Cox reviewed SAHA policy as agreed upon in

the April 16, 2016 version of the SAHA By-Laws for new members. There was a

discussion about Directors presenting the facts, then the Board decides. Alabama

Directors do not have the latitude to stop this organization, but they will bring the facts to

the Board and try to direct the best market results. Everyone agreed.

Audit Committee – Mr. Stone reported the tax return is due on December 15th. The

accountants will send a draft and there will be a review period by the Board on December

13th. The Tax Return will be filed on December 15th.


Disabled Hockey – Ed Ragland reported that the Nashville Predators hosted a recent

disabled hockey event at Ford Ice Center. USA Hockey was impressed with the Predators

devotion to the disabled. Nashville Sled Preds won their Division. Nashville won

plaudits for hosting such a great event.

Discipline and Dispute Resolution – Bill Medbery reported that the only DDR incident

included a GSHL Collins Hill Player who received a Match Penalty for Slew Foot and

Intent to Injure. The player accepted and is serving a 3 game suspension in lieu of a

hearing.


Girls and Women’s Committee – Tim McAlister reported that SAHA would have a

Women’s team going to Districts this year.

High School Committee - No Committee Report at this time. John Cox reported on

USA Hockey High School National Declaration process. November 15th was the

reporting deadline for the declaration process. It was subsequently learned that the

process is a “first come, first served” process. Although Tennessee declared two teams,

they did not make it into the tournament because the available slots were already filled.


Membership Growth Committee – Don Stone reviewed the Membership Growth

spreadsheet and the Committee’s recommendations. There were 5 requests for the two

“Learn To Play Hockey” slots. There was a discussion to go ahead and fund all 5 of the

requests in the 1st half of the year, and see what the 5 Associations do in the first half.

There was an acceptance of this budget risk. But we have $$ on hand from prior years.

This proposal will establish reporting and recording criteria and will meet accountability

for follow up from the Associations. The follow up process will include a questionnaire

from the Association with a decision matrix and an accountability requirement. Medbery

Motion, Ragland second. Motion passed to accept the Committee’s recommendation.

Player Development – It was reported that plans are in place for 2017. Nashville will

host the Player Development session on the either of the following weekends in March of

12/13 or 17/18 or 19/20.

SYTHL Committee – No Report at this time.


Tier I – There was a general discussion about the By-Law proposal sponsored by

Clayton Giffen, President of the Nashville Junior Predators. His proposal was to align

SAHA’s Tier I policy with USA Hockey’s new policy. SAHA’s requires team

representation at all age levels, and Giffen’s proposal eliminates the all age bracket

requirements.

Yan Kaminsky, Don Stone, Chris Powers and John Cox will form the committee to

review the Clayton Giffen request to eliminate SAHA’s more restrictive guidelines. We

should look at Tier I tryouts to make sure we are not restricting our Tier I players and

limiting their options for Tier II opportunities.

Tier II - Mo Morrison conducted a discussion about changing the dates in May for the

weekend Try-outs for 2017-2018. Options discussed were to have Tier II tryouts a few

days earlier next year, and a longer tryout period, and signing dates within a specific

timeframe. There are always conflicts with the May Holiday weekend at the end of the

month. It was determined the Atlanta Market is different from Nashville and from smaller

markets, and has its’ own set of issues. It was determined to establish a committee to

flush this out more in detail and report back later. Mo Morrison and Brad Prefontaine

will coordinate with Tim McAlister and Eric Hudson.


New Business: -

ADM Model Violations – 8 U Players on 10 U Rosters for 2016. Bill Medbery

presented the two new requests from the Atlanta Knights. Brad Prefontaine said he would

get back to the Board as perhaps only one of the two submitted were of the proper skill

level. Subsequent to the meeting, the Atlanta Knights pulled the exception requests for

David Levinsohn and Hudson Wagner.

Chris Powers reviewed the totality of play-ups across the league and asked Brad

Prefontaine why there are so many play-ups at the 8 U and 10 U age brackets at the

Marietta Ice Center. CAHA has a no travel players playing up rule. If SAHA had no

tolerance for play-ups, how would it affect the Atlanta Knights. It would most likely hurt

the Knights.

Next Board Conference Call - Sunday, December 11, 2016 - SAHA December

Conference Call - 8pm Eastern/7pm Central


November








Winter Meeting


changes




USA Hockey









Eastern/7pm Central



December




National Bound


Grants (75% award)




Eastern/7pm Central







USA Hockey






January








Eastern/7pm Central









February


11:00 am to 3:00 pm


495 Riverfront Pkwy


Phone 423-834-9300

Fax 423-834-9301











Bound Youth Tier II


Across America


Tier II Play-down




Audit John Cox










SYTHL Paul Petrarca

Tier I Yan Kaminsky

Youth Jack Flynn

The meeting was adjourned at 10:02 pm EST, 9:02 pm CST on Sunday November 20th,

2016.


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



November 20, 2016


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday November 20, 2016 beginning at


Present at the November 20th regular meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill

Medbery, Tim McAlister, Yan Kaminsky, Ed Ragland, Don Stone, and Dennis

McGuffie. Also in attendance was David Polk, SE District Associate Registrar, Mo

Morrison, ADM Committee Chairman, Chris Powers, USA Hockey District Director, and

Brad Prefontaine from the Atlanta Knights Association.


remains: 300310#.

MEETING AGENDA

Secretary Report

Treasurer Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business





Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the October 16, 2016


Treasurers Report – Don Stone made a motion to accept a By-Law Amendment

following section 3.4 of the By-Laws. The motion was accepted and passed. The

following language is hereby incorporated into Section 3 of the SAHA By-Laws as a new

subsection 3.5:




federal government, or to a state or local government, for a public purpose.”




Registrar’s Report – David Polk reported that SAHA had 5,690 registered youth

Players, 2,615 Adult Players, and 419 registered Coaches. Managers and Volunteers

have not been totaled. There are 149 approved Teams, of which 3 are approved with

redline status as the Coaches have not completed background screening. District

Director Chris Powers asked how does that compare to 2015? David Polk will research.

David Polk subsequently reported that the 8,305 registered Players for 2016-2017

compares to 8,480 the prior year. The now150 Teams registered compares to 171 the

prior year, but more teams will register as the year goes on.



Polk. John Coleman is the Co-Treasurer and will take on those responsibilities. There

was a question as to whether there are any payments due to the District by SAHA? John

Cox and Don Stone to follow up on.





Morrison, Chris Powers and Bill Medbery will review policy options for presentation at

the December Meeting. CAHA Policy to be considered.

Adult Committee – Ed Ragland reported on the new group in Huntsville, AL that

requested SAHA Membership. He reported that North Alabama Hockey Association

(NAHA) is against that group’s membership and tried to broker a potential solution. The

groups have not come together recently, and so the Tennessee Directors are not at a point

to make a recommendation to the SAHA Board. They are considered to be an organized

pick-up-game group. Three quarters of them play in NAHA currently. Most are

considered USA Hockey members. John Cox reviewed SAHA policy as agreed upon in

the April 16, 2016 version of the SAHA By-Laws for new members. There was a

discussion about Directors presenting the facts, then the Board decides. Alabama

Directors do not have the latitude to stop this organization, but they will bring the facts to

the Board and try to direct the best market results. Everyone agreed.

Audit Committee – Mr. Stone reported the tax return is due on December 15th. The

accountants will send a draft and there will be a review period by the Board on December

13th. The Tax Return will be filed on December 15th.


Disabled Hockey – Ed Ragland reported that the Nashville Predators hosted a recent

disabled hockey event at Ford Ice Center. USA Hockey was impressed with the Predators

devotion to the disabled. Nashville Sled Preds won their Division. Nashville won

plaudits for hosting such a great event.

Discipline and Dispute Resolution – Bill Medbery reported that the only DDR incident

included a GSHL Collins Hill Player who received a Match Penalty for Slew Foot and

Intent to Injure. The player accepted and is serving a 3 game suspension in lieu of a

hearing.




High School Committee - No Committee Report at this time. John Cox reported on

USA Hockey High School National Declaration process. November 15th was the

reporting deadline for the declaration process. It was subsequently learned that the

process is a “first come, first served” process. Although Tennessee declared two teams,

they did not make it into the tournament because the available slots were already filled.


Membership Growth Committee – Don Stone reviewed the Membership Growth

spreadsheet and the Committee’s recommendations. There were 5 requests for the two

“Learn To Play Hockey” slots. There was a discussion to go ahead and fund all 5 of the

requests in the 1st half of the year, and see what the 5 Associations do in the first half.

There was an acceptance of this budget risk. But we have $$ on hand from prior years.

This proposal will establish reporting and recording criteria and will meet accountability

for follow up from the Associations. The follow up process will include a questionnaire

from the Association with a decision matrix and an accountability requirement. Medbery

Motion, Ragland second. Motion passed to accept the Committee’s recommendation.



12/13 or 17/18 or 19/20.







requirements.














New Business: -

ADM Model Violations – 8 U Players on 10 U Rosters for 2016. Bill Medbery

presented the two new requests from the Atlanta Knights. Brad Prefontaine said he would

get back to the Board as perhaps only one of the two submitted were of the proper skill

level. Subsequent to the meeting, the Atlanta Knights pulled the exception requests for

David Levinsohn and Hudson Wagner.

Chris Powers reviewed the totality of play-ups across the league and asked Brad

Prefontaine why there are so many play-ups at the 8 U and 10 U age brackets at the

Marietta Ice Center. CAHA has a no travel players playing up rule. If SAHA had no

tolerance for play-ups, how would it affect the Atlanta Knights. It would most likely hurt

the Knights.

Next Board Conference Call - Sunday, December 11, 2016 - SAHA December

Conference Call - 8pm Eastern/7pm Central


November








Winter Meeting


changes




USA Hockey









Eastern/7pm Central



December




National Bound


Grants (75% award)




Eastern/7pm Central







USA Hockey






January








Eastern/7pm Central









February


11:00 am to 3:00 pm


495 Riverfront Pkwy


Phone 423-834-9300

Fax 423-834-9301











Bound Youth Tier II


Across America


Tier II Play-down




Audit John Cox










SYTHL Paul Petrarca

Tier I Yan Kaminsky

Youth Jack Flynn

The meeting was adjourned at 10:02 pm EST, 9:02 pm CST on Sunday November 20th,

2016.


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



December 11, 2016


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday December 11, 2016 beginning at


Present at the December 11th regular meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill

Medbery, Paul Petrarca, Don Stone, Dennis McGuffie, Jack Flynn, and Ryan

McCormack. Also in attendance was David Polk, SE District Associate Registrar, Mo

Morrison, ADM Committee Chairman, and Chris Powers, USA Hockey District Director.


remains: 300310#.

MEETING AGENDA


Secretary Report

Treasurer Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business


- Review SE District Play-Down Policy


- February Winter Meeting Notice Reminder (Don Stone to communicate)

President’s Report – John Cox reported that several committees had held recent

conference calls to review business needs. The Tier I Committee has been discussing

moving dates for try-outs up a week, which means Tier I could be on the same weekend

as Tier II tryouts. Dates to be confirmed at a later date.

Mo Morrison had a conference call with all of the Atlanta Hockey Directors on line. The

purpose was to discuss whether Tier II tryouts could be moved off of the May Holiday

weekend(s): Memorial Day and Mother’s Day. The objective is to work out a way to

resolves conflicts, and not conflict with Player Development which is often Mother’s

Day. The Committee will make a final recommendation shortly

John Cox reported that Nashville no longer has ice available for the District Play-down

Tournament in the Spring. District Tournament will now be in Huntsville in 2017.

Thank you to Huntsville for again coming to the service of SAHA.

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the November 20th, 2016


Treasurers Report – Don Stone made a motion to revise SAHA’s Articles of

Incorporation to reflect the By-Law Amendment passed last month in subsection 3.5 with

the following language:




federal government, or to a state or local government, for a public purpose.” Don Stone’s

Motion also included authorization to fund the costs of amending the Articles of

Incorporation thereof from the Audit Committee budget.




Registrar’s Report – David Polk reported that there are 160 approved Teams, of which

152 are approved with no changes needed. 5 to 7 teams have further information needed

to fully approve (Supplemental Status). One 10 U team submitted a roster with only 8 U

players from Nashville Jr. Preds. David has not approved and will not approve until they

submit a SAHA Board notice.

National bound Tier I and Tier II declarations are pending and will be certified based

upon their certification process and Credentials Book process. David’s goal is to have

the Credentials Book in proper order to pass Nationals requirements.



Polk. The Associate Registrars in the District are doing their part and David is handling

the Registrar’s business. David is going to plan to go to the Winter meeting in this

regard.

John Coleman is the Co-Treasurer and will take on those responsibilities. There was a

question as to whether there are any payments due to the District by SAHA? John Cox

and Don Stone to follow up on.





Morrison, Chris Powers and Bill Medbery will continue to review policy options for

presentation at future meetings.

Adult Committee – Ryan reported that there was no new news on the new group in

Huntsville, AL that requested SAHA Membership. He reported that North Alabama

Hockey Association (NAHA) is against that group’s membership and tried to broker a

potential solution. The groups have not come together recently, and so the Tennessee

Directors are not at a point to make a recommendation to the SAHA Board. They are

considered to be an organized pick-up-game group. Three quarters of them play in

NAHA currently. Most are considered USA Hockey members.

John Cox reported about Kevin Cook’s efforts to get the Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Association to register with SAHA. John Cox gave interim approval to accept them in

SAHA. A motion was passed to accept the Association as a new SAHA Association.

David Polk mentioned the process of referral to Kevin Cook. David mentioned that there

is a organization at Center Ice, Atlanta that he will refer to Georgia Directors. They are

USA Hockey registered, but not claimed (just like Louisiana).

Audit Committee – See above Treasurer’s Report. Mr. Stone reported the tax return is

due on December 15th. The accountants will send a draft and there will be a review

period by the Board on December 13th. The Tax Return will be filed on December 15th.

College and University Committee – Paul Petraca reported that the Collegiate

Showcase is in planning stages and invitations will be sent this week. This year he will

also have a Goaltender Showcase.

Disabled Hockey – No report at this time.

Discipline and Dispute Resolution – Bill Medbery reported that nothing was pending in

the DDR Committee.




High School Committee – Jack reported Mississippi declared a National Bound team.

Tennessee declared on November 15th two declarations and was told that the first-come-

first-serve status eliminated them before their applications could be considered.

Junior Committee – No report at this time. Ryan asked if any new applications could be

expected.

Membership Growth Committee – Don Stone reported that the Grant process was well

underway.



12/13 or 17/18 or 19/20.







requirements.














New Business: -

Winter Meeting Update – This is the year for Playing Rule changes. Proposals made,

considered until June, then voted.

1) Tag up offsides eliminated

2) Tier I quarter finals eliminated at National Tournament

3) Affilates are planning to integrate their Background checking with USA Hockey.

Can SAHA do so.

SAHA Winter Meeting - The SAHA Winter Meeting will be held Saturday,

February 4, 2017 - SAHA Winter Meeting:

11:00 am to 3:00 pm


495 Riverfront Pkwy


Phone 423-834-9300

Fax 423-834-9301

By-Law Proposal to be considered at SAHA Winter Meeting

1) SAHA Play Up Policy

Current Play-Up Policy

-Associations Self Report to SAHA Board

-Case-By-Case based on Physical, Emotional, and Social Maturity

-Violations of avoiding ADM Cross-Ice = up to $5,000 and/or removal from USA

Hockey Certification

Proposed Play-Up Policy

- No 8 and Under Play-UP exception granted – NONE – PERIOD

- All other ages have no restrictions on Play-Up

- Parents Request Play-Up Exception and the Associations must Approve or Deny

(No 8 U exceptions allowed)

- Case-By-Case based on Physical, Emotional, and Social Maturity

- Play-Up Request & Acknowledgement of Risk and Liability Form must be

submitted to Registrar with Team Roster (See Form Attached)

- The move up player or goaltender should be projected to be among the top 25%

of all players on the next age classification team.

- A player will not be permitted to move up more than one year in age.

- Small market associations will be given consideration where the number of

registered players within the geography of the association at an age classification

do not equal one team.

- Violations of avoiding ADM Cross-Ice = up to $5,000 and/or removal from

USA Hockey Certification

2) Clayton Giffen Tier I proposal to be presented by a Committee composed

of John Cox, Chris Powers, and Don Stone


January








Eastern/7pm Central









February


11:00 am to 3:00 pm


495 Riverfront Pkwy


Phone 423-834-9300

Fax 423-834-9301











Bound Youth Tier II


Across America


Tier II Play-down

March

• Wednesday March 1, 2017 Final Development Grant Report along with any

receipt and documentation due from grant recipients. Balance of Grant Award

(25%) paid upon receipt of final report

• Wednesday, March 01, 2017 - Deadline for review of Tier I applications and

notification of final decision (SAHA Bylaws Operating Rules, Policy, and

Procedures Section 24.2.7)

• Wednesday, March 01, 2017 - Nominations close for annual election of District


• Friday, March 3, 2017 to Sunday, March 5, 2017 - Tier II Georgia Play-down

Tournament – Bob McCaig Memorial Tournament - Alpharetta and Duluth,

GA

• Friday March 10 to Sunday March 12, 2017 Girls'/Women's District

Tournament Hosted by PVAHA

• Sunday March 12, 2017 – Daylight Savings Begins

• Wednesday, March 15, 2017 - USA Hockey Block Grant Application for

following year due (USA Hockey Block Grant Program Requirements)

• Friday March 17, 2017 to Sunday March 19, 2017 - SE District Tier I and

Tier II Tournament Hosted by SAHA in Nashville, TN

• Sunday, March 19, 2017 - SAHA March Conference Call - 8pm Eastern/7pm

Central

• Wednesday, March 22, 2017 - Ballots distributed for annual election of District


• Thursday March 30 to Sunday April 3, 2017 - USA Hockey High School

National Championships Cleveland, OH

April

• Saturday, April 01, 2017 – USA Hockey Block Grant Applications due for

following year.

• Saturday, April 01, 2017 - Deadline for Member Association Presidents to submit

list of registered members as of February 28 to SAHA Secretary (SAHA Bylaws

13.1a)

• Saturday, April 01, 2076 - Nominations open for vacant seats on the SAHA Board

of Directors (SAHA Bylaws 14.1)

• Thursday April 6, 2017 to Monday, April 9, 2017 - USAH National

Championships - Youth Tier I & II; Girls Tier I & II, and Women’s (See

Page 250 of The USA Hockey Annual Guide for dates and locations of the

Championships) USA Hockey National Championships

• Youth Tier I 14U & 15 - Scottsdale, AZ

• Youth Tier I 16U & 18U - Pittsburgh, PA

• Youth Tier II 14U - Coral Springs, FL

• Youth Tier II 16U - Frisco, TX

• Youth Tier II 18U - Lansing, MI

• Girls Tier I - Rochester/Macomb, MI

• Girls Tier II - Troy, MI

• Sunday, April 9, 2017 - Deadline for ballots for annual election of District


• Sunday, April 9, 2017 - SAHA April Conference Call - 8pm Eastern/7pm

Central

• Thursday April 13 to Monday April 18, 2017 – America’s Hockey Showcase –

Pittsburgh, PA

• Saturday, April 15, 2017 - Deadline for SAHA Developmental Grant Final Report

from member associations/25% final balance paid upon acceptance of final

report (SAHA Developmental Grant Program Requirements)

• Friday, April 21, 2017 - Termination of appeal deadline for annual election of

District Director (SE District Guide 6.d)

• Saturday, April 22, 2017 to Sunday, April 23, 2017 - SAHA Boys Player

Development Tryouts in Huntsville

• April 2017 - SE District Girls Player Development - TBD

•

May

• Monday, May 01, 2017 - Nominations close for vacant seats on the SAHA Board


• Monday, May 01, 2017 - Final Report for previous year of USA Hockey Block

Grant due to USA Hockey (USA Hockey Block Grant Program Requirements)

• May 2017 - SE District Boys Player Development - TBD

• Saturday, May 13, 2017 - Earliest allowable date for Tier I tryouts (SAHA Bylaws

Operating Rules, Policy, and Procedures Section 24.2.7)

• Saturday, May 27, 2017 - Earliest allowable date for Tier II tryouts (SAHA

Bylaws Operating Rules, Policy, and Procedures Section 24.4)




Audit John Cox










SYTHL Paul Petrarca

Tier I Yan Kaminsky

Youth Jack Flynn

The meeting was adjourned at 9:02 pm EST, 8:02 pm CST on Sunday December 11th,

2016 Respectfully submitted,

William V. Medbery

Secretary



January 15, 2017


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday January 15, 2017 beginning at 8:00

pm EST/7:00 pm CST via conference call.

Present at the January 15th regular meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill

Medbery, Paul Petrarca, Don Stone, Dennis McGuffie, Jack Flynn, and Ryan

McCormack. Also in attendance was David Polk, SE District Associate Registrar.


remains: 300310#.

MEETING AGENDA


Secretary Report

Treasurer Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business



New Business


President’s Report – John Cox reported that several committees had held recent

conference calls to review business needs. The Tier I Committee has been discussing

moving dates for try-outs up a week, which means Tier I could be on the same weekend

as Tier II tryouts. Dates to be confirmed at a later date.

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the December 11th Board

Conference Call. Those Minutes were approved.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone reported that the initial Grant funding was made to all

of the approved Grant recipients. He will review the status of current Financial reports

at the Winter Meeting on February 4th in Chattanooga. The IRS Filings were submitted

on time on December 15th. SAHA should have its status of a 501c(3) tax-exempt

organization in good order soon. We are now waiting to hear from IRS on final approval.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk reported that there are 170 approved Teams, of which

164 are approved with no changes needed. 5 new teams are not yet fully approved, as

they are waiting on documentation to receive final approval. One team is waiting on a

Coach’s SafeSport certification.

Several teams have further information needed to fully approve (currently in

Supplemental Status). A 10 U team from Nashville Jr. Preds submitted a roster with

only 8 U players on it. David has not approved and will not approve until they submit a

SAHA Board notice.



the Credentials Book in proper order to pass Nationals requirements for the State Playoff

Tournaments.

David Polk reports that Mark Bodner was home from Chemotherapy treatment, but

would have such treatment every week. Districts will be in Huntsville and David will

attend. Happy to be there.

The SE District is the 3rd largest District in the country in terms of paid players, 8th in the

country in regards to 6U players. Is this an issue? We should try to get the 6U’s

registered if possible.


American Development Model – No Report

Adult Committee – The new group in Huntsville, AL headed by Michael Gonzales has

requested SAHA Membership Mr, Gonzales reported in via email correspondence

seeking the current status on January 13th. There is a continuing dialogue on their

request for membership.

Audit Committee – No report


Showcase has 78 players registered with plenty of goalies and defensemen. Need to

restructure the teams with its lower number of overall players this year. The SE

Coordinator moved away due to his wife’s job and Sarge is back as the coordinator.

Other Colleges are participating this year as well, so the Showcase is not just an SEC

Showcase but a Collegiate Showcase.



the DDR Committee.


Girls and Women’s Committee – Tim McAlister reported that Kelly Singletary would

be submitting a 5 year strategic plan soon. The plan is to keep the girls together. SAHA

will have a Women’s team going to Districts this year.

High School Committee – No Report - Don Gensler is ill and a fill in has been set up

and is now working with Jack Flynn.

Jack reported Mississippi declared a National Bound team. Tennessee declared on

November 15th two declarations and was told that the first-come-first-serve status

eliminated them before their applications could be considered.

Junior Committee – No report at this time. No issues. Ryan McCormack asked if any

new applications could be expected.

Membership Growth Committee – Don Stone reported that the Grant process was

funded.

Player Development – No Report

SYTHL Committee – Paul Petrarca reported that the SYTHL was having a smooth

season and he has been travelling to most tournaments.

The District Tournament will be hosted by SAHA in Huntsville this year and plans are

underway. The Board is encouraged to attend to show support of Affiliate.


Tier I – No Report – Clayton Giffen inquired on January 8th as to the status of his

proposed Tier I By-Law change request. Yan Kaminsky, Don Stone, Chris Powers and

John Cox formed a committee to review the Clayton Giffen’s request to eliminate

SAHA’s more restrictive guidelines. We should look at Tier I tryouts to make sure we

are not restricting our Tier I players and limiting their options for Tier II opportunities.

Tier II – No Report

Old Business –

The proposed Adult Organization in Huntsville needs to supply more information to the

Alabama Directors. The Alabama Representatives will need to make a recommendation

of approval or disapproval. At the October meeting, suggested they meet with NAHA

Board meeting. NAHA wanted to work with them. They told NAHA they did not wish

to work with them. There is a need to work to gain closure as this has been pending for 5

months. Using 1 Referee to keep costs down.

New Business: -

USA Hockey Winter Meeting Update – This is the year for Playing Rule changes.

Proposals made, considered until June, then will be voted on.

4) Tag up off-sides eliminated

5) Tier I quarter finals eliminated at the National Tournament

6) Affiliates are planning to integrate their Background checking with USA Hockey.

Can SAHA also do so?

SAHA Winter Meeting - The SAHA Winter Meeting will be held Saturday,

February 4, 2017 - SAHA Winter Meeting:

11:00 am to 3:00 pm


495 Riverfront Pkwy


Phone 423-834-9300

Fax 423-834-9301

By-Law Amendments for consideration at the SAHA Winter Meeting February 4th

in Chattanooga

1) SAHA Play-Up Policy Changes - Bill Medbery presented an outline of a proposal to

change SAHA’s Play-up policy at the December Board Conference Call. The highlights

of the outline are:

Current Play-Up Policy

-Associations Self Report to SAHA Board

-Case-By-Case based on Physical, Emotional, and Social Maturity

-Violations of avoiding ADM Cross-Ice = up to $5,000 and/or removal from USA

Hockey Certification

Proposed Play-Up Policy

- No 8 and Under Play-UP exception granted – NONE – PERIOD

- All other ages have no restrictions on Play-Up

- Parents Request Play-Up Exception and the Associations must Approve or Deny

(No 8 U exceptions allowed)

- Case-By-Case based on Physical, Emotional, and Social Maturity

- Play-Up Request & Acknowledgement of Risk and Liability Form must be

submitted to Registrar with Team Roster (See Form Attached)

- The move up player or goaltender should be projected to be among the top 25%

of all players on the next age classification team.

- A player will not be permitted to move up more than one year in age.

- Small market associations will be given consideration where the number of

registered players within the geography of the association at an age classification

do not equal one team.

- Violations of avoiding ADM Cross-Ice = up to $5,000 and/or removal from

USA Hockey Certification

There was a broad discussion that “No play up” policy for 8U is a good idea. The

Directors were encouraged to have a discussion with our Associations and gain their

feedback on the proposal. The desire is that we vote on it in February. The need to

communicate the policy is critical for its success. David Polk reported this would bring

SAHA in line with every other Affiliate. Chris Powers said we should begin

communicating it now.

2) By-Law Proposal from Clayton Giffen – Yan Kaminsky, Don Stone, Chris Powers

and John Cox formed a committee to review the Clayton Giffen’s request to eliminate

SAHA’s more restrictive Tier I guidelines. We should look at Tier I tryouts to make

sure we are not restricting our Tier I players and limiting their options for Tier II

opportunities.


January








Eastern/7pm Central









February


11:00 am to 3:00 pm


495 Riverfront Pkwy


Phone 423-834-9300

Fax 423-834-9301











Bound Youth Tier II


Across America


Tier II Play-down

March











GA









Central





April


following year.



13.1a)

















Central


Pittsburgh, PA









•

May













Audit John Cox










SYTHL Paul Petrarca

Tier I Yan Kaminsky

Youth Jack Flynn

The meeting was adjourned at 8:41 pm EST, 7:41 pm CST on Sunday December 11th,

2016.


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary


MINUTES OF Minutes of Winter Board Meeting

February 4, 2017

The Winter meeting of the Board of Directors of the Southern Amateur Hockey

Association (“SAHA”) was held on Saturday February 4, 2017 beginning at 10:30 CST.

Meeting Location:


495 Riverfront Parkway


Phone 423-834-9300

FAX 423-834-9301

Present at the February 4th Winter Meeting in Chattanooga were 2016-2017 Directors

John Cox, Bill Medbery, Paul Petrarca, Don Stone, Dennis McGuffie, Ed Ragland, Ryan

McCormack, Yan Kaminsky, Rich Bennett, Tim McAlister, and Ryan McCormack. Also

in attendance were David Polk, SE District Associate Registrar, and Chris Powers, SE

District Director.

MEETING AGENDA

Call to Order

Roll Call

Chattanooga Hockey Presentation – Chris Sislo - CARTA


Secretary Report

Treasurer Report

Registrar Report

Girl’s Hockey Presentation – Kahlie Singletary

State Representative’s Reports

a) Alabama ‐ Rich Bennett*, Ryan McCormack, Ed Ragland

b) Arkansas ‐ Paul Patrarca

c) Georgia ‐ Yan Kaminsky, Bill Medbery, Don Stone*

d) Louisiana ‐ Kevin Cook

e) Mississippi ‐ Dennis McGuffie*

f) Tennessee ‐ John Cox, Jack Flynn, Tim McAllister*

* Seat up for election in 2017

Committee Reports

a) ADM Committee - Curtis Morrison, Chair

b) Adult Committee - Dennis McGuffie, Chair

c) Audit Committee - John Cox, Chair

d) Coach-in-Chief Report - Rick Murray, CIC

e) College/University Hockey Chair - Paul Petrarca, Chair

f) Disabled Hockey Committee - Edward Ragland, Chair

g) Discipline & Dispute Resolution Committee - Bill Medbery, Chair

h) Girls Committee Chair - Tim McAllister, Chair

i) High School Chair - Jack Flynn, Chair

j) Junior Committee - Ryan McCormack, Chair

k) Membership Growth Committee - Kevin Cook, Chair

l) Player Development Committee - Jack Flynn, Chair

m) SafeSport - Rich Bennett, Chair

n) SYTHL Liaison - Paul Petrarca, Chair

o) Tier I Committee - Yan Kaminsky, Chair

p) Youth Chair - Jack Flynn, Chair

Old Business

- Alabama Application for New Association

- Revisions to SAHA By-Laws

- SAHA Play Up Policy Revisions

- Update on SE District Tournament


New Business

President’s Report – John Cox led a discussion following the Chattanooga presentation

about Hockey opportunities in Chattanooga and market interactions with other interested

parties such as the Nashville Predators.

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the January 15th Board

Conference Call. Those Minutes were approved. Bill Medbery explained the updated

treatment of The Minutes Book on the SAHA website to be as transparent and current as

possible.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone presented written Treasurer’s reports and a Bank

Account reconciliation statement of all checks written and outstanding. John Cox

reported that the SE District Treasurer Mark Bodner is extremely ill. Mark Freedman,

who is an accountant will be taking on the Treasurer’s role. There is a check for

$2,320.00 outstanding from SAHA to the SE District that may be lost and might need to

be reissued.

Don Stone reported that the IRS has acknowledged receipt of SAHA’s Tax Filing and our

Tax Returns.

The 2017-2018 budgeting process will be undertaken earlier next year. The Grant

Program is the largest piece of the budget. There are plans to issue multi-year grants and

will require a different planning and budgeting process than prior years. The discussion

indicates that Kevin Cook should include the State Representatives in any

correspondence concerning the administration of Grants. Our goal will be to have the

budget planning process prior to and a part of the February Winter Meeting next year.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk reported that there are 175 approved Teams, of which 1

is still pending due to the lack of the Coach’s background screening. David has

processed 3 Play Down requests in the 2016-2017 year, 1 of which was approved.

David Polk reported on USA Hockey registration numbers by each State. There was a

discussion on how SAHA can create initiatives to grow the sport of hockey. Getting the

youngest players into the sport of hockey is the best way to fill the pipeline.



the Credentials Book in proper order to pass Nationals requirements for the State Playoff

Tournaments.


would have such treatment every week. Districts will be in Huntsville and David will

attend. Happy to be there.


country in regards to 6U players. Is this an issue? We should try to get the 6U’s

registered if possible.


Girl’s Hockey Presentation – Kahlie Singletary presented a Strategic Plan to grow

Girl’s Hockey (See presentation). The SAHA Board showed support of the plan to grow

Girl’s Hockey. An Association should be formed to coordinate girl’s hockey in the 6-

state SAHA territory. SAHA should support the plan with a Girl’s Player Development

session.

Kahlie Singletary was nominated and elected to serve as SAHA’s Chair for the Girl’s and

Women’s Committee. Don Sone and Ryan McCormack will serve on the Committee and

serve as Board Liaisons.

By-Law Change Approved by Unanimous Vote – By-Law 15.6 was amended to delete

the following from the end of 15.6: “except for the President who may serve no more than

three (3) consecutive two-year terms. Of the offices established above, no two (2) or more

offices may be held by the same person at the same time.”

Don Stone asked the Board to make a decision to refer a potential Tier I By-Law

violation. The decision was made to refer that potential violation to the Tier I Committee

State Representative Reports

Alabama - Huntsville will be hosting the District Tournament in Huntsville in March.

Programs designed to grow the sport of Hockey were discussed.

Arkansas – The two Boards in Arkansas have new members from Canada and growth

potential is apparent for the future. Some issues with having referee’s properly certified.

Some ex-Razorback officials are involved.

Georgia – Don Stone reported on state of Georgia activities being conducted in earnest.

Louisiana – Kevin Cook was not in attendance but sent in a written report in advance.

Mississippi – Gulf States activity was reported by Dennis McGuffie.

Tennessee – The Junior Preds program is alive and thriving in 7 cities in Tennessee.

They have plans to run 1,800 kids through the program. Knoxville now has a rebranded

Predators program with strong participation. There might be a new 2-Sheet rink built in

Knoxville that could be ready in two years.

Board Term Expirations: Rich Bennett, Don Stone, and Dennis McGuffie indicated a

desire to run for re-election, Tim McAlister will not be running again, as he is moving to

Texas.

There was a motion offered and a vote passed to elect Daniel Butler to fill the remaining

Tennessee term of Tim McAlister.


Adult Committee – IRS Resolution notice is pending.

Audit Committee – No report


Showcase next weekend has 78 players registered with plenty of goalies (42) and

defensemen. 6 goalies will be selected to play in the Showcase game. The teams will be

restructured accordingly due to the lower number of overall players this year. The SE

Coordinator moved away due to his wife’s job and Sarge is back as the coordinator.

Other Colleges are participating this year as well, so the Showcase is not be just an SEC

Showcase but a Collegiate Showcase. SAHA will pay for the ice time only.

Disabled Hockey – Ed Ragland reported things are progressing smoothly this season.

Jeff Sauer, coach of national sled time passed away last week, and it will be difficult to

replace him

Discipline and Dispute Resolution – Bill Medbery reported that there was one case

pending.

Girls and Women’s Committee – SEE ABOVE Discussion

High School Committee – No Report

Junior Committee – No report at this time. See Feb 2, 2017 report that the USPHL is

planning on leaving USA Hockey. If they pull out, SAHA Youth teams cannot play

them.

Membership Growth Committee – Don Stone reported that the Grant process was

funded.

Player Development – Plans for the April session are well underway.

Safe Sport – Rich reviewed the letter of compliance to USA Hockey. SAHA compliance

has fallen from 85% down to 58% after the two year certification period expired. We

will have to put efforts into the re-certification process.

SYTHL Committee – Paul Petrarca reported that the SYTHL was having a smooth

season. There will be a Board Meeting next week in Nashville. They are trying to re-

recruit more members.

The District Tournament will be hosted by SAHA in Huntsville this year and plans are

underway. The Board is encouraged to attend to show support of Affiliate.

Tier I – Don Stone reported that 2017-2018 Tier I application from The Thunder from

Nathan Bowen was received and meets the all of the criteria for approval. The

Committee recommended that the Thunder only has to apply each year for continued

approval, without the burden of producing a long and involved application as they have

done each year prior. It is a cumbersome process. It was recommended to find a way to

streamline the process, by giving a more perpetual approval that would be in place unless

something changes to the detriment of their program. A contrary opinion formed

whereby the benefits of having every Association have an annual review process whereby

they sign an annual self assessment or Conflict of Interest statement to insure self

compliance to USA Hockey rules.

Motion to approve the Thunder application was passed. Ryan McCormack abstained.

The Committee will communicate in a thoughtful manner on the Tier I approvals and

recommendations for continuation of Tier I status in the future within 5 days.

Clayton Giffen inquired on January 8th as to the status of his proposed Tier I By-Law

change request. Yan Kaminsky, Don Stone, Chris Powers and John Cox formed a

committee to review Clayton Giffen’s request to eliminate SAHA’s more restrictive

guidelines, from his point of view. The Committee looked at Tier I tryouts to make sure

we are not restricting our Tier I players and limiting their options for Tier II

opportunities. The Board decided not to change the By-Laws as requested by Clayton

Giffen.

Tier II – No Report

Youth Committee and District Tournaments –Rich Bennett reported that SAHA is all

set to host the District Tournament in Huntsville March 16-19, 2017. There were some

concerns on the initial schedule, and Chris Powers will intercede to smooth out some

schedule issues.

Old Business –

The proposed Adult Organization in Huntsville does not comply with all USA Hockey

rules including penalties and 2 referees. NAHA does not recommend approval of this

pick-up League. The Alabama Representatives do not recommend approval of this

Membership Application.

A Motion passed to turn down the Application for entry into SAHA. Rich Bennett

recused himself as a member of the NAHA Board.

Bill Medbery subsequently offered for the DDR Committee to hear an appeal. Michael

Gonzales responded they would like to appeal, but has not followed through on filing an

appeal.

Next Board Meeting - The March 19th Board Conference Call was rescheduled to

Sunday March 12th, as the Board will be attending the District Tournament in Huntsville

March 16-19, 2017.

New Business: -

USA Hockey Winter Meeting Update – This is the year for Playing Rule changes.

Proposals have been made for changes and will be considered until June, then they will

be voted on.

7) Tag up off-sides to be eliminated

8) Tier I quarter finals eliminated at the National Tournament

9) Affiliates are planning to integrate their Background checking with USA Hockey.

Can SAHA also do so?

By-Law Amendments for consideration were circulated by President John Cox and

will be considered in future Board Meetings (See Document attached)


February


11:00 am to 3:00 pm


495 Riverfront Pkwy


Phone 423-834-9300

Fax 423-834-9301











Bound Youth Tier II


Across America


Tier II Play-down

March











GA









Central


Central





April


following year.



13.1a)

















Central


Pittsburgh, PA









May













Audit John Cox










SYTHL Paul Petrarca

Tier I Yan Kaminsky

Youth Jack Flynn

The meeting was adjourned at 5:31 pm CST, on Saturday February 4, 2017.


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



March 12, 2017


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday March 12, 2017 beginning at 8:00


Present at the March 12 the regular meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Yan

Kaminsky, Ed Ragland, Don Stone, Dennis McGuffie, Rich Bennett, Ryan McCormack,

Jack Flynn, Kevin Cook and Danny Butler ( new member of Board from TN) Also in

attendance was Mo Morrison -ADM Committee Chairman, Chris Powers - USA Hockey

SE District Director. The Board Directors not on this conference call were William

Medbery and Paul Petrarca.

MEETING AGENDA

President Report and Update

Secretary Report

Treasurer Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the last Board

Conference Call. Those Minutes were approved and accepted by the Board 9-0 vote.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone reported nothing to report.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk not on call.


American Development Model – Mo Morrison nothing to report.

Adult Committee – Dennis McGuffie nothing to report.

Audit Committee – John Cox nothing to report.

College and University Committee – No Report at this time. Danny Butler reported that

the Showcase Hockey Festival held was a success with both College and SAHA teams

playing with a Goalie event held on Saturday am.

Disabled Hockey – Ed Ragland nothing to report.

Discipline and Dispute Resolution – Rich Bennett reported that there were 5 Match

Penalties at the recent GNASH weekend of play.

Safe Sport – Rich Bennett reported only one incident in Women/Girls event but no

information could be shared with Board.

Girls and Women’s Committee – Don Stone nothing to report.

High School Committee – Jack Flynn reported that the Greater Nashville High School

League had two eligible teams commit in November to attend USA Hockey National

High School Championships, however both have now declined to attend. GNASH has

been suspended for a TWO YEAR PERIOD from declaring a team for USA Hockey

National High School Championships and fined $2,000 ($1,000 each for Brentwood HS

and Centennial HS team withdrawing their commitments).

Junior Committee – No report at this time. Chris Powers noted that six junior teams

from our Affiliate are in their respective league playoffs.

Membership Growth Committee – Kevin Cook reported that the end of season reports

are coming in from Associations for their participation in the Grant Program. He asked

that the affiliate order additional Quick Change equipment for 2017-2018.

Player Development – Jack Flynn reported that plans are in place for 2017 Player

Development with 77 players currently registered. Player Development sessions will be

April 21-23 this year.


Youth Committee and District Tournaments – Jack Flynn reported that all District

Tournament events are covered and ready to go.

Tier I – Yan Kaminsky reported no old business. See new business below.

Old Business –

SAHA By Law Changes were discussed by the Board (See attached proposed changes).

Motion made by Don Stone and seconded by Ed Ragland that the proposed changes be

adopted as presented.

These two items were voted on by the Board with all Board member voting APPROVAL

WITH A 9-0 VOTE COUNT.

New Business: -

The Tier I Committee reported that a New Tier I application was received from the

Nashville Jr. Predators. Copies were previously distributed to the Board by committee

chair Yan Kaminsky. The Committee had also submitted questions to the Nashville Jr.

Predators. Copies of the questions and the response from the Nashville Jr Predators were

also previously distributed to the Board.

There was a vigorous discussion on both sides of the argument along five (5) major

topics:

1) The Nashville Jr. Preds organization was not in existence for 3 years, a

requirement of USA Hockey Tier I Rules and Regulations. They incorporated in

May 2016.

2) Nashville Jr. Preds President Clayton Giffen had previously requested that the

SAHA By-laws be amended, as they were not believed to be in alignment with

the 2016-2017 USA Hockey Rules and Regulations. He specifically requested

that SAHA amend Operating Rules, Policies, and Procedures section 24.2.2 that

“Any Association or organization applying for Tier I status must agree to field

teams at all of the above listed age groups”. Clayton Giffen specifically requested

that SAHA remove the 12 and Under and 18 and Under age requirements.

3) Two Tier II Hockey Directors on the Board outlined the detrimental effect that a

second Tier I team in the Affiliate had had in the past, when second Tier I teams

had tried unsuccessfully to form and operate.

4) The Nashville Jr. Preds had been granted Tier I status in March 2013 for the

2014-2015 season. They were unable to sustain Tier I status for 2014-2015 and

subsequently reapplied as rec teams to play a Tier II schedule. The general

discussion was about their inability to sustain a Tier I program.

5) The inability of the SAHA Affiliate to support more than one Tier I program

based on Player quality and quantity, demographics, empirical data, and past

history.

There was a MOTION put forth by Dennis McGuffie and seconded by Rich Bennett for

the Board to Approve the Tier I application from the Nashville Jr. Preds organization.

There was a roll call vote on this MOTION with one vote in favor of the MOTION, one

vote abstaining and seven votes opposed to the MOTION. The Application was NOT

APPROVED.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:02 pm EST, 9:45 pm CST on Sunday March 12, 2017


___________________

Dennis McGuffie

Mississippi Director and Board Member

John Cox, President

Bill Medbery, Secretary



April 9, 11, 23, 25, 26, and 30, 2017


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday April 9, 2017 beginning at 8:00 pm

EST/7:00 pm CST via conference call. The meeting was suspended several times,

resumed on April 11, April 23, April 25, and finally adjourned on April 30th.

Present at the various April meetings were a quorum of 2016-2017 Directors including

John Cox, Bill Medbery, Kevin Cook, Yan Kaminsky, Dennis McGuffie, Rich Bennett,

Paul Petrarca , Don Stone, Dennis McGuffie, Paul Petrarca, Danny Butler and Ryan

McCormack. Also in attendance was David Polk, SE District Associate Registrar, Kahlie

Singletarry, Girls and Women Chairperson, and Chris Powers, District Director were on

the various conference calls. Casey Jorgenson, USA Hockey General Counsel attended

one of the meetings as well.

The conference call dial in number is (641) 715-3680. The participant access code is:

300310#.

MEETING AGENDA


Secretary Report

Treasurer Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

- Nashville Jr. Preds Tier I Application and Appear Hearing

New Business

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the March 12thth Board

Conference Call. Those Minutes were approved.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone has nothing to report.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk reported that the regular season is over. The Fire and

Phoenix did well in the Nationals. Nashville Jr. Preds Tier II 16U did not do well in the

playoffs. All registration is valid until 8/31/17. Registrations now are good for 2017

summer and 2017-2018 season.


would have such treatment every week. David Polk will taking on Mark Bodner’s

responsibilities as District Registrar.


country in regards to 6U players.



Adult Committee – No Report

Audit Committee – The IRS issue has been resolved and SAHA’s 501©3 status is

reaffirmed.

College and University Committee – No Report



the DDR Committee.


Girls and Women’s Committee – Kahlie Singlrtarry is working to insure Try Hockey

for free in 2018 is in good order. Nashville in May. Working to set up Atlanta.

High School Committee – No Report –

Junior Committee – No report at this time.

Membership Growth Committee – Kevin Cook and Don Stone will work on some

outstanding check items to insure that the Grant process was completely funded.

Player Development – There were 185 kids vs 220 last year. The 2003 year was not as

strong as desired. 2002 participation was strong. 2001 and 2000 was typical in numbers.

No depth in goalies for 2000 and 2001. Historically lower numbers in Huntsville this

year, so hoping next year gets back to Atlanta and Nashville historic numbers. Jack

Flynn sold back some ice time. Budget should come in close to expectations.

Allocations sent to Districts was discussed. Posting will got out Tuesday April 25th.

SYTHL Committee –Paul Petrarca reported that the SYTHL had a smooth season and

he has been travelling to most tournaments.

Youth Committee and District Tournaments – All bills have been paid for the District

Tournament which was hosted by SAHA in Huntsville this year.

Tier I – The Tier I application of the Nashville Jr. Preds was the main topic of

conversation at all of these meetings, in fact after April 9th, the Tier I application of the

Jr. Preds was the sole topic of conversation.

The Tier I application of the Nashville Jr. Preds was rejected by the SAHA Board on

March 12, 2017. The Nashville Jr. Preds filed an appeal of the SAHA Board decision.

An Appeal Committee consisting of John Coleman, Jeff Woods, and T.C. Lewis

remanded the appeal of the Tier I application of the Nashville Jr. Preds back to the SAHA

Board for further consideration.

Nashville Jr. Preds President Clayton Giffen presented a revised Tier I application

request to the SAHA Board on April 25th.

During the length of these meetings, potential conflicts of interest were identified, and

several Board members recused themselves from the future decision process for the Tier I

application of the Nashville Jr. Preds.

Board members Bill Medbery, Don Stone, Dennis McGuffie, Paul Petrarca, Edward

Ragland, and Richard Bennett identified themselves as having no conflict of interest in

the decision process for the Tier I application of the Nashville Jr. Preds.

The SAHA Board members with no conflict of interest in the decision process for the

Tier I application of the Nashville Jr. Preds decided to reject the application on the same

grounds as the March 12th decision as outlined in the attached SAHA Hearing Committee

Decision.

New Business

None

Calendar of Events

May










June

• Thursday, June 01, 2017 - Deadline for distributing ballots for election of SAHA

Directors to member associations (SAHA Bylaws 14.1)

• Thursday, June 1, 2017 to Saturday, June 04, 2017 - USA Hockey Annual

Congress Hotel Elegante, Colorado Springs, CO

• Sunday, June 25, 2017 - SAHA June Conference Call - 8pm Eastern/7pm

Central

• Friday, June 30, 2017 - Deadline for completion of election of SAHA Directors

(SAHA Bylaws 14.2)

July

• Friday, July 01, 2017 - First day allowable to roster Tier II teams (SAHA Bylaws

Addendum E 11.5.1.2)

• Sunday, July 23, 2017 - SAHA July Conference Call - 8pm Eastern/7pm

Central

• Monday, July 31, 2017 - Fiscal Year End (SAHA Bylaws 20.6)

August

• Tuesday, August 01, 2017 - Start of fiscal year (SAHA Bylaws 20.6)

• Tuesday, August 01, 2017 - Earliest date for games to count for 20/10 rule

(Annual Guide XI.A - p. 133)

• Tuesday, August 01, 2017 - 2015 - 2016 Committee Reports Due

• Sunday, August 6, 2017 - SAHA August Conference Call - 8pm Eastern/7pm

Central

• Saturday, August 12, 2017 - SAHA Annual Membership Meeting - (SAHA

Bylaw 18.2)

• Sunday, August 13, 2017 - SYTHL Annual Membership and Scheduling

Meeting - Atlanta Meeting Location TBD

SAHA Member Association Meeting Saturday 8:00am to 3:00pm

SAHA Board Meeting Saturday 3:00pm to 6:00pm




Audit John Cox




Girls & Women’s Kaile Singletarry






SYTHL Paul Petrarca

Tier I Yan Kaminsky

Youth Jack Flynn


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



May 11th, 2017

A specially called meeting of the Board of Directors of the Southern Amateur Hockey

Association (“SAHA”) was held on Thursday May 11, 2017 beginning at 8:00 pm


The meeting was properly agreed to by waiver of all 12 Board members of the 30 day

meeting notice requirement in the SAHA By-Laws.

Present at the May 11th meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill Medbery,

Kevin Cook, Dennis McGuffie, Rich Bennett, Paul Petrarca , Don Stone, Ryan

McCormack, and Ed Ragland. Also in attendance was David Polk, SE District Associate

Registrar, and Chris Powers, District Director were on the call. A quorum was available

for the meeting.

The sole Agenda item was to discuss the Tier I application of the Nashville Jr. Predators

which had previously been denied by the Board on March 12, 2017 and again on April

27, 2017, and was under review by an Appeals Panel at the request of the Nashville Jr.

Preds.

Following the opening of the conference call, and determination of a quorum, Directors

John Cox, Kevin Cook, and Ryan McCormack recused themselves from the discussion

and left the call.

Directors Bill Medbery, Don Stone, Rich Bennett, Dennis McGuffie, Paul Petrarca, and

Ed Ragland, along with USA Hockey District Director Chris Powers, and Associate

Registrar David Polk conducted the discussions about the Nashville Jr. Preds application

for Tier I status.

The Board members unanimously voted to accept the Nashville Jr. Preds application for

Tier I status, which had been previously rejected in our March 12th, and April 27th Board

Meetings. The reason the Board members approved the Tier I application is because,

working with an Appeal Panel of experienced, independent youth hockey experts over

the past month, and with the recently committed support of the only NHL Hockey

franchise in our Affiliate, the Nashville Predators, the Board members now believe that

the recently committed support of the Nashville Predators will reasonably allow the

Nashville Jr. Preds to overcome the deficiencies the SAHA Board outlined in our March

12th, and April 27th declination decisions. (The past Board decision, as well as the

Nashville Predators support commitment are attached for reference.)

Chris Powers agreed to communicate this decision to the Appeals Panel as well as the

Nashville Jr. Preds, and the Nashville Predators promptly, so that these organizations

could properly move forward and carry on their business considerations in a timely

manner. Bill Medbery communicated the decision to the entire Board. Board members

were encouraged to please communicate this decision to any appropriate constituents as

necessary for them to carry on their proper business considerations as necessary.

The Board Members also voted to suspend the May 11th meeting at 9:26 pm, until

Monday May 15th at 8:00 pm Eastern time, 7:00 pm Central time, so that we could have

the opportunity to present these results and decision to all 12 members of the Board.

On the May 15th continuation of the call were SAHA Directors John Cox, Don Stone, Bill

Medbery, Paul Petrarca, Kevin Cook, Rich Bennett, Edward Ragland, and USA Hockey

District Director Chris Powers, and Associate Registrar David Polk.

The purpose of the continuation of the May 11th meeting was to brief the rest of Board on

the discussions and decision of May 11th, and about the support commitment letter

received from the Nashville Predators.

NEW BUSINESS

There was a brief discussion about upcoming Tier II tryouts and that an association may

need some reminders about recent SAHA By-Law changes and abiding by the SAHA

Rules. John Cox, Bill Medbery and Chris Powers agreed to address.

The May15th meeting was adjourned at 8:39 pm

The next SAHA Board Meeting will be on Sunday June 4, 2017 beginning at 8:00 pm

EST/7:00 pm CST via conference call. The conference call dial in number is (641) 715-

3680. The participant access code remains: 300310#.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

June






Central


(SAHA Bylaws 14.2)

July




Central


August






Central


Bylaw 18.2)






___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



June 4th, 2017


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday June 4, 2017 beginning at 8:00 pm



300310#.

Present at the June 4, 2017 meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill Medbery,

Kevin Cook, Yan Kaminsky, Rich Bennett, Paul Petrarca , Don Stone, Ryan

McCormack, and Ed Ragland. Also in attendance was David Polk, SE District Associate

Registrar, Chris Powers, District Director, and Mo Morrison, ADM Chairman were on

the call. A quorum was available for the meeting.

MEETING AGENDA

President’s Update

Secretary Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business

- By-Laws Adjustment - Should recently passed Play-Up Rules apply to Spring

and Summer Leagues, or just the regular Hockey Season?

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the May Board

Conference Call. Those Minutes were approved. The April Minutes are not yet

completed.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone reported that SAHA has received IRS confirmation of

our 501(c)3 tax exempt status was approved. Don Stone has a few checks to issue and

will be working with Kevin Cook, Chairman of the Development Grant Committee to

identify and approve any final grant payments.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk had no formal report to submit. He has been approving

some Spring/Summer rosters and the processing is acceptable.


American Development Model – Mo Morrison reported that for house leagues and

Play-ups for Spring/ Summer leagues there is an issue with the most recent SAHA By-

Laws change.

John Cox reviewed the issue of Spring/Summer rosters. In the past, players were allowed

to participate in Spring and Summer hockey with their “next playing season’s” age

classification. Most affiliates also treat Spring and Summer hockey in that same fashion.

The strict interpretation of the language of our most recent By-Law change relative to 8U

players playing up would not allow that as the “USA Hockey Registration Season” is not

over until August 31st.

The Executive Committee approved David Polk to approve play-ups for Spring/Summer,

prior to this Board Meeting. As a result of the discussion, the Board agreed with the

Executive Committee.

John Cox and the Executive Committee will review new By-Law language to allow play-

up at the end of the National Tournament season and the Spring/Summer House leagues.

A By-Law amendment as such will be presented to the Board at the June 25th meeting.

Adult Committee – No Report

Audit Committee – Don Stone reported that SAHA has received IRS confirmation of

our 501(c)3 tax exempt status was approved. .


Disabled Hockey – No Report at this time.

Discipline and Dispute Resolution – No Report at this time.


Girls and Women’s Committee – No Report at this time

High School Committee - No Report at this time Junior Committee – No report at this

time

Membership Growth Committee – will be working with Kevin Cook, Chairman of the

Development Grant Committee to identify and approve any final grant payments.

Player Development – No report at this time



Tier I – No report at this time

Tier II – No report at this time


New Business: -

Chris Powers will be working with Jack Flynn to coordinate the Tier I Play-downs

calendar for 2018. The District Play-down calendar needs to be confirmed as well.

John Cox will work with Chris Powers and Bill Medbery to draft a letter to the Marietta

Ice Center to insure The MIC conforms with the letter of, and the intent of all USA

Hockey and SAHA rules and regulations.

A number of SAHA Board Members and officials will be attending the Summer USA

Hockey Meeting in Colorado Springs this coming week: John Cox, Chris Powers, Ed

Ragland, Paul Petrarca, David Polk, and Rich Bennett to attend.

The next SAHA Board Meeting will be on Sunday June 25, 2017 beginning at 8:00 pm

EST/7:00 pm CST via conference call. The conference call dial in number is (641) 715-

3680. The participant access code remains: 300310#.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

June






Central


(SAHA Bylaws 14.2)

July




Central


August






Central


Bylaw 18.2)





The meeting was adjourned at 8:46 pm


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



June 25th, 2017


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday June 25, 2017 beginning at 8:00 pm



300310#.

Present at the June 25, 2017 meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill Medbery,

Paul Petrarca , Dennis McGuffie, Jack Flynn, and Don Stone. Also in attendance was

David Polk, SE District Associate Registrar, Chris Powers, District Director, and Mo

Morrison, ADM Chairman were on the call. A quorum was not presnt for the meeting.

MEETING AGENDA


Secretary Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Minutes from the April and June Board

Conference Call.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone has nothing to report. USA Hockey Block Grant was

received.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk was not in attendance, but sent this written report about

the recent USA Hockey Annual Congress: “In the meantime, here are some highlights

from the Annual Congress from the Registrars side:

1. Southeastern District is now the 3rd largest district in USA Hockey. When I first

started going to Annual Congress, SE was 11th out of 11 districts. We are now 3rd of

12. That speaks volumes for the work everyone has put in to help grow the game in our

District and we should be very proud.

2. USPHL is not going to register any teams with USA Hockey this season, 2017-

18. Not sure how this will impact any youth teams that may be associated with them. It

will be important to ensure that any youth teams you may play are approved USA

Hockey registered teams.

3. Effective with the 2017-18 season, any coach that is not up to date on SafeSport will

be 'grayed' out and not eligible to be added to any team until the requirement is

met. Also, the appropriate age specific module must be completed before they can be

added to a team's roster. i.e. If a coach wishes to coach a 14U team, he must have

completed the 14U module before he can be added. It will not matter if he has completed

all of the other modules, unless he has completed the 14U module, he cannot be on a 14U

team roster. As always, screening is required before any coach can be added to the

rosters.”


USA Rule Changes: Chris Powers gave an update on rule changes that will take place in

the coming year. There are 3 major rule changes.

1) Offensive Language – The “correctness” of abusive language will extend beyond

the ice and into the hockey rink as well.

2) For 14 U and below the waiver of icing when teams are short handed is will be

eliminated

3) Games of 15 minutes or less, penalties are now 1.5 minutes instead of 2 minute

penalties

The USPHL have withdrawn from the USA Hockey and they are going to private

insurance with the AAHL.

The SE District is now the third largest District in USA Hockey.

Club Excellence will be focused on.

SE District will host

Committee Reports – There were No Committee Reports

Old Business – John Cox will work on some By-Law adjustment language to correct

language from the March 12th approved By-Law changes regarding what was intended as

Fall/Winter changes, that if interpreted as strictly drafted, would adversely impact

historic Spring and Summer League rules.

New Business: -

Casey Jorgenson presented the situation of a non USA Hockey League Team in an

Association (i.e. AAU team), has to have a separate organization, team officials, etc., to

insure there is no confusion with regard to USA Hockey insurance coverage. Need to

clarify to insure parents understand. Affiliates are encouraged to include this section in

their By-Laws.

Casey Jorgenson also discussed Board Level decisions vs. appellate decision

responsibilities. This will require SAHA to change its decision process to move

decisions to the Committees to run the affairs of the Affiliate with Board oversight.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

June






Central


(SAHA Bylaws 14.2)

July




Central


August






Central


Bylaw 18.2)





The meeting was adjourned at 8:57 pm, Eastern time, 7:57 pm Central time.


___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



July 23rd, 2017


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday July 23, 2017 beginning at 8:00 pm



300310#.

Present at the July 23, 2017 meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill Medbery,

Kevin Cook, Danny Butler, Dennis McGuffie, Don Stone, and Edward Ragland,. Also in

attendance was Chris Powers, District Director.

MEETING AGENDA


Secretary Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business

- August 12th Annual Member Meeting Planning

- By-Law Amendment to clarify Spring/Summer League Historical Practices

- USA Hockey Rules governing non-sanctioned play

- Alabama Amateur Hockey Association (AAHA) organization (playing as the

Birmingham Bulls) request for 8U Play-up

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Conference Call Minutes from the

April Meetings, the June 6th and the June 25th Board Conference Calls. There was a

correction to the April Minutes to better reflect that the meeting(s) were suspended

several times, and that the April meetings were not adjourned until the April 30th meeting

closed. The Minutes were approved with that clarification.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone has nothing to report.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk was not in attendance.

Committee Reports – There were No Committee Reports. John Cox encouraged each

Committee Chair to submit their annual Committee Report by Sunday July 30th. He will

prepare a President’s Report for the August Meeting.

Old Business – John Cox prepared some suggested By-Law amendment language that

was discussed in the June meeting, in order to clarify the past and present practices

whereby, when the regular playing season ends, Summer and Spring leagues can form

with players age brackets moving up to the age level they will play in the next upcoming

playing season. Our March 12th By-Law amendment changes did not clearly delineate

these past practices. These proposed By-Laws changes were distributed to the Board

with the meeting announcement. Casey Jorgenson reviewed the language and suggested

in the non-sanctioned play section, that we could take out the reasons shown as examples,

but that they do not deter from the intent of the By-Laws. A motion was made and

seconded, and the Board voted to incorporate these changes as presented, into the SAHA

By-Laws. See those reports.

August Meeting Discussion – Plans are finalized to hold the annual Meeting of

Members of the Southern Amateur Hockey Association on Saturday August 12, 2017 in

Kennesaw, GA. The meeting will be held at the Embassy Suites Hotel, and will begin at

8:15 am. Following the SAHA Meeting, the SAHA Board will have its annual meeting,

beginning at @ 3:00 pm. The SYTHL will hold their meeting and scheduling meetings

beginning at 8:00 am Sunday morning.

Hotel Name: Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Kennesaw Town Center

Hotel Address: 620 Chastain Road

Kennesaw, Georgia

30144

Phone Number: 770-420-2505

Other Information Obtained during the Meeting:

I) USA Rule Changes: Chris Powers distributed an update on rule changes that will take

place in the coming year. These changes will be distributed to the Associations and

reviewed at the August Meeting.

A Summary of Some of the More Significant USA Hockey Rule Changes

There were numerous rule changes adopted at the USA Hockey Annual Congress in June

by the Board of Directors. I highly recommend that every hockey director, program

administrator, coach or official familiarize themselves with these changes by looking at:

http://www.usahockey.com/news_article/show/804355?referrer_id=752796.

This site provides summaries as well as a complete list of all the changes and points of

emphasis.

In my opinion, the most notable or significant changes are as follows:

1. 601 (e.2) – changes language for racial/ethnic slur to include language that is

“offensive, hateful or discriminatory in nature”. This will result in a game

misconduct and can be called anywhere in the rink, before during or after the

game.

2. 612 (b) – all face offs will be conducted at one of the nine designated face off

spots.

3. 615 (c) - A match penalty (for all age classifications) shall be assessed to any

player who deliberately removes his helmet/ facemask prior to an altercation. A

match penalty (for all age classifications) shall be assessed to any player who

http://embassysuites.hilton.com/en/es/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=ATLKSES

http://www.usahockey.com/news_article/show/804355?referrer_id=752796

deliberately removes his opponent’s helmet/facemask prior to or during an

altercation. A game misconduct penalty (for all age classifications) shall be

assessed to any player whose actions during an altercation causes the removal of

an opponent’s helmet and facemask. The player or goalkeeper shall be suspended

for his team’s next two scheduled games. This two-game suspension is in addition

to any other required suspensions incurred during the same incident. A game

misconduct penalty (for all age classifications) shall be assessed to any player

who doesn’t wear his helmet/ facemask as designed and the helmet/facemask is

removed during an altercation.

4. 624 (b) – eliminates the ability for a shorthanded team to legally ice the puck for

14U and below age classifications.

5. Coaching Certification – coaches are required to have completed the age

appropriate module before they are eligible to coach or instruct. No roster will be

approved that lists a coach who has not completed the age appropriate online

module.

There were also a couple of significant rule changes consider that were not adopted by

the Board of Directors but which sparked a lot of discussion and had some support from

Youth Council and others.

1. Removing “tag up” offsides from the 14U age classification.

2. Changing the length of a minor penalty to one and a half minutes for all age levels

in games with period lengths of 15 minutes or less.

3. Removing body checking in the 14U age classification.

Chris Powers, USAH Southeast District Director

II) Alabama Amateur Hockey Association (AAHA) organization (playing as the

Birmingham Bulls) request for 8U Play-up Exception

Alabama Amateur Hockey Association (AAHA) organization (playing as the

Birmingham Bulls) formally requested an exception to the ADM 8U policy to allow

player (John Michael Mugavero) to participate on a 10U roster for the 2017-2018 playing

season. Copies of the AAHA exception request correspondence were distributed to the

Board.

The Disciplinary and Dispute Resolution (DDR) Committee Members present, Bill

Medbery, Chris Powers, and Don Stone allowed discussion on this topic from the Board,

as well as another situation from the Mississippi Amateur Hockey Association (MAHA)

Olive Branch, MS Ice House Hockey League seeking clarification about the ADM 8U

play-up policy.

Following the discussions, the DDR Committee voted not to grant any exceptions to our

8U play-up policy as our By-Laws on page 51 state: “ No exceptions are permitted for 8U

players playing in older age groups except:

i. 8U players that were permitted to participate on a 10U team in 2016-2017 are

permitted to play-up in 2017-2018. “

Player John Michael Mugavero does not meet the criteria for a grandfathered player

status, based on his 2016-2017 season age range where he played (8U).

Bill Medbery will notify the Alabama Amateur Hockey Association of the decision. It

was felt that no further communication was needed in the case of the Mississippi

Amateur Hockey Association, as Mississippi Director Dennis McGuffie had supplied

them with the information requested, and no formal request for exception was received.

III) 2018 Player Development Camp - This year is Nashville’s year in the rotation

however, there is a concern about ice availability in Nashville. Danny Butler confirmed

that ice is only available to allow a 3 day program, instead of the normal weekend player

development program. There will be a follow up to see if Centennial can provide some

ice.

Huntsville or Atlanta could be used, however, that is not a good situation for the

Nashville families. They comprise our biggest constituency and a 4 hour drive with hotel

costs will hurt our participation numbers. We could keep in Huntsville however; the

flights are extremely exorbitant and it increases our costs considerably.

Jack Flynn, Danny Butler, and John Cox will pursue options and keep us informed.

IV) Tier I Play-Down Tournament - Chris Powers informed the Board that the two

Tier I organizations were in communication to schedule the Tier I Play-Down events for

2018, and that the Board and Tier I Committee should encourage their continued

interaction in this regard.

The next SAHA Board Conference Call will be held on Sunday, August 6, 2017 -

SAHA August Conference Call - 8pm Eastern/7pm Central

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

July




Central


August






Central


Bylaw 18.2)







___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary



August 6, 2017


Hockey Association (“SAHA”) was held on Sunday August 6, 2017 beginning at 8:00



300310#.

Present at the August 6, 2017 meeting were 2016-2017 Directors John Cox, Bill

Medbery, Edward Ragland, Paul Petrarca, Richard Bennett, Jack Flynn, Danny Butler,

Dennis McGuffie, and Yan Kaminsky. Also in attendance was David Polk, District

Associate Registrar.

MEETING AGENDA


Secretary Report

Registrar Report

Committee Updates

Old Business

New Business

- Annual Meeting of Association Members

Secretary Report – Bill Medbery distributed the Conference Call Minutes from the July

23rd Board Conference Call. There was a correction to the Minutes noticed by Kevin

Cook in correspondence. The Minutes were approved with that correction.

Treasurers Report – Don Stone and John Cox are working on a 2017-2018 budget to be

presented this week.

Registrar’s Report – David Polk will have a report to present on August 12th.

Committee Reports – There were No Committee Reports. John Cox encouraged each

Committee Chair to submit their annual Committee Report by Tuesday August 8th. He

will prepare a President’s Report for the August Meeting.


August Meeting Discussion – Plans are finalized to hold the annual Meeting of

Members of the Southern Amateur Hockey Association on Saturday August 12, 2017 in

Kennesaw, GA. The meeting will be held at the Embassy Suites Hotel, and will begin at

8:15 am. Following the SAHA Meeting, the SAHA Board will have its annual meeting,

beginning at @ 3:00 pm. The SYTHL will hold their meeting and scheduling meetings

beginning at 8:00 am Sunday morning.

Hotel Name: Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Kennesaw Town Center

Hotel Address: 620 Chastain Road

Kennesaw, Georgia

30144

Phone Number: 770-420-2505

New Business - None

The next SAHA Board Meeting will be held on Saturday, August 12, 2017 beginning

with the Annual Meeting of Members at 8:15 am Eastern in Kennesaw

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

August






Central


Bylaw 18.2)


Meeting -





___________________

William V. Medbery

Secretary

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