Milwaukee Winter Club

The Milwaukee Winter Club is one of the oldest youth hockey programs in the State of Wisconsin dating back to the early 1960s. The Milwaukee Winter Club offers skaters the opportunity to pursue excellence at the individual, team and organizational levels. The club’s goal is to foster growth and develop skilled skaters, team play, sportsmanship and self-esteem through a positive and knowledgeable coaching environment. We are proud of our club’s history and tradition of excellence and sportsmanship.

The Winter Club operates under the legal authority of the University School of Milwaukee and is governed by an independent board of directors. The board consists of both University School and non University School parents. Directors serve three-year terms. It is a working board as all directors are expected to participate in the governance of the club and participate in club activities and programs. A list of your current directors and their assignments can be found at our web site, www.winterclub.com. If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions regarding the Winter Club or its policies and procedures contact a director. The Winter Club constantly seeks to improve its program and the overall experience provided to our skaters and their families.

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers perform the vast majority of all club activities, from assisting with the snack bar to coaching the teams. We depend on our membership to actively participate at all levels. Please volunteer, even those who are not able to help out on the ice can contribute by performing other valuable services for the club. In addition to a head coach and assistant coaches each team needs a manager to coordinate team games and activities. Parents often man the snack bar during games and practices, assist with scoring and operating the time clock during games, supervise locker rooms before and after games and practices and coordinate special team activities. Volunteer parents coordinate all special club events such as picture day, the Winter Club family night at the Bradley Center, the Atoms family night, the yearend banquets and club tournaments. As a result of our many volunteers and the generosity of the University School which charges reasonable ice fees, the club is able to provide a quality youth hockey program at modest ice fees.

ICE FEES AND REGISTRATION

The club’s ice fees include each skaters’ share of ice usage, USA hockey insurance, team socks (retained by the player after the season), team jerseys (returned at the conclusion of the season), WAHA dues, two tournaments and the state play downs which lead to the state tournament if the team qualifies. The dues also cover the clubs administrative expenses, referees for games, pucks and goalie equipment and other operational expenses. Our fees also help to pay for the salary of Rene Cranston, director of player and coaching development. Rene Cranston provides assistance to coaches and players, special programming such as shooting clinics, Holiday break clinics, and other activities designed to develop players and improve the quality of on ice coaching.

Registration usually occurs in late August or early September. There are various required forms and all must be completed to assure proper registration with the club, WAHA and USA Hockey. Proper registration enables our teams to participate in tournaments and provides catastrophic insurance under the USA Hockey insurance program. The Consent to Treat forms, the liability waiver forms and birth certificates stay with the team’s manager throughout the season and accompany the team to all games and tournaments.

THE SEASON

During the month of September the University School offers a number of pre-season clinics coordinated by Rene Cranston. Our official season begins the first week in October with a one week skill development/try-out session. Teams are selected at the conclusion of this skill development/try-out session. With the exception of the youngest age group (the Atoms), skaters are placed on teams according to their ability. Each higher level (Mite, Squirt, Pee Wee and Bantam) has an A, B, C and a developmental team if there are sufficient numbers of players at the level. Once the teams have been selected team practices commence. For the next few weeks teams will practice and work on both individual and team skills. Games commence in late October. Each team, with the exception of a developmental team, will participate in two tournaments and the state play downs. The majority of the games are scheduled before the season begins, however the team manager will schedule additional games and tournaments. All add on games at our rink must be coordinated with the master ice scheduler.

We encourage teams to participate in an early season tournament to facilitate team spirit. The season continues throughout the winter and we strive to have our teams ready for the State play downs the second weekend in February. Teams that are successful at the State play down weekend qualify for the State tournament at their level, conducted on either the first or second weekend of March. Our season concludes the third week of March.

The Wisconsin Amateur Hockey Association (WAHA), the governing body for youth hockey in Wisconsin, has designated the Winter Club as a Division 1 program. WAHA places each youth hockey program into a designated Division based on the club’s size, longevity and performance in State competition. WAHA also sets boundaries for all clubs, classifies and sanctions all clubs and conducts the annual state tournaments.

Our top team at each level is designated as the A team. Our second highest team at each level is the B team, followed by the C team. Any additional teams at a level would be a developmental or recreational team. Smaller clubs are designated as Division 3 and 4. There are also Division 1 programs, the largest districted programs in the state and AAA programs, which compete for the national championships and do not have any boundary restrictions. During the season teams try to play against similarly rated teams, thus our A team will play other Division 1 A teams. However, if a team is better or worse than those similarly rated teams in our Division, they may play teams from other Divisions.

Skaters play in designated age groups, Atoms, Mites, Squirts, Pee Wees, Bantams and, Girls U12 and U14. Each general age group encompasses two years. Girls and boys skate together at the Atoms level. The club encourages girls to skate with the boys at the Mite level. Most girls switch to the girls program at the Squirt level, though some stay with the boys at that level. Checking starts at the Pee Wee level for boys. Prior to that level checking is not permitted though skaters are allowed to go for the puck and that often results in some body contact. Since there is no checking in girls’ hockey, most girls transfer to the girls program by the time they reach the Pee Wee level. However, no rule prevents girls from participating with the Pee Wee or Bantam boys. They may then give or receive body checks.

AGE GROUPS

The following is a description of the various age groups and some important concepts governing the operation of each age group and the club.

This chart sets forth the birth year for each level for the upcoming seasons. A child born at any time during the year will play in the age level for that birth year as set forth on this chart.

Level	2006-07 Season	2007-08 Season	2008-09 Season	2007-08 Season
Atoms	2000 and younger	2001 and younger	2002 and younger	2003 and younger
Mites	1998 & 1999	1999 & 2000	2000 & 2001	2001 & 2002
Squirts	1996 & 1997	1997 & 1998	1998 & 1999	1999 & 2000
Pee Wee	1994 & 1995	1995 & 1996	1996 & 1997	1997 & 1998
Bantam	1992 & 1993	1993 & 1994	1994 & 1995	1995 & 1996
Girls U10	1996 and younger	1997 and younger	1998 and younger	1999 and younger
Girls U12	1994 & 1995	1995 & 1996	1996 & 1997	1997 & 1998
Girls U14	1992 & 1993	1993 & 1994	1994 & 1995	1995 & 1996
Girls U16	1990 & 1991	1991 & 1992	1992 & 1993	1993 & 1994

ATOMS

The Atoms program provides the young skater, ages 5 to 6, with an introduction to the sport of hockey in a fun filled environment. Skaters receive instruction on basic hockey skating skills: forwards, backwards, stops and turns. They are taught basic stick handling, passing and shooting skills. Practices consist of traditional hockey drills interspersed with fun games utilizing the skills they are taught. However, skaters at this age need to continuously practice skating. We have as many as 60 skaters on the ice during each session. The club is not able to teach a non-skating participant how to skate. The club recommends that Atoms skaters, and particularly the weaker skaters, participate in the Learn to Skate program to further develop their skating skills. Atoms skaters are also encouraged to take advantage of the family skates, outdoor ice and any other opportunity to improve skating skills.

Skaters are divided according to skill levels for practice sessions. This enables the coaches to focus on the needs of the individual skater and allows skaters to develop according to their skill level. After 4 to 5 weeks of basic skill sessions, twice per week on Saturdays and Sundays, the skaters are divided into 4 to 6 evenly balanced teams. The Atom skaters will then practice three sessions for every game. Games will be conducted cross–ice or half ice. The Atoms skater is introduced to basic hockey positions and, during the second half of the season, they may participate in full ice games. In addition, the young atom skater is introduced to the goalie position. And, the club makes goalie equipment available to those interested in trying the position. It is an excellent opportunity for young skaters to experience the position.

Our program includes a special evening at an Admirals game where the skaters play a full ice game before an Admirals game (approximately 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.), have dinner as a team and then a small five minute game between one of the periods at the Admirals game.

We encourage interested parents to assist during practices. Coaching skaters at this level is very labor intensive as skaters require individual attention to learn proper hockey skills. The club strives to provide as much individual attention as possible by involving many coaches on the ice. The Atoms program is an exceptional introduction to ice hockey for both the parent and skater.

The Mite program, for skaters aged 7 & 8, continues to develop the basic skating skills learned at the Atoms level. Skaters are taught edge control (a hockey skate has an outside and inside edge with a hollow center) and forward and backwards crossovers. Puck control, passing and receiving, shooting, non-body contact checking and basic goal tending are introduced at this level.

Skaters learn basic team play concepts and positions. All coaches utilize the same basic defense, breakout and offensive strategy so that our skaters receive the same instruction on team play. Though all rules of the game apply to the Mite level, skaters learn two of the most important rules, off sides and icing. Generally, at the start of the year the Mite team looks like a scrum or bee swarm chasing the puck. By the end of the year the skaters are in their respective positions, the wings and center low and in a triangle and the defensive skaters are in position holding the blue line. Skaters are passing the puck and demonstrating the fundamentals of team play. Some of the greatest strides in basic skill development and team play occur at the Mite level.

At the Mite level the Winter Club offers an A team, a B team, and a C team which is viewed as a developmental/recreational team. All skaters try out for the A, B and C level teams. These tryouts occur during the first week of the season. The top 14-16 skaters are placed on the A team, the next 14-16 are assigned to the B team and the balance of Mite skaters are then placed on the developmental/recreational ( C ) team. For the A and B teams we try to find at least 2 skaters to play the goalie position. These skaters share time in the goal during regular season play. All skaters are encouraged to try the goalie position at the mite level.

Mites generally have two weekend on ice sessions (practices or games) and at least one and often two practice sessions during the week. Game play usually starts in late October and continues to mid March. In the early part of the season we try to limit the number of games and emphasize practices. The A and B teams participate in at least two tournaments and the State play downs. The developmental/recreational teams are encouraged to participate in two tournaments also. The Mite teams play teams from other clubs at their level. Parents and skaters are exposed to travel games as mite teams will generally play teams within a one hour driving radius from the Winter Club rink. And, fun for all family members are the tournament weekends which generally involve an overnight stay in a motel with a swimming pool and all sorts of fun activities.

Skaters learn the importance of being part of a team, respecting their teammates and opponents, basic team play, the key rules of hockey, self discipline, a strong work ethic, commitment to a team and to always try their best. Mite hockey is exciting and fun for the entire family.

Skating, hockey skills and team play all take a dramatic leap at the Squirt level, skaters aged 9 & 10. Players are expected to add backward crossovers to their existing forward and backwards skating abilities. Quick starts and stops, lateral movements and transition moves are developed and implemented in game play. Several new puck handling skills are added: change of pace, give and take, accelerating with the puck, puck protection, lateral movements with the puck and forward to backward dribble. Passing, receiving and movement without the puck are emphasized as these skills are critical to team play at the squirt level.

The players shooting arsenal increases with the backhand shot, snap shot, wrist shot, screening and deflection and targeting areas of the net. In addition to the poke, lift and swipe stick checks players learn gap control, body positioning and angling. Control of the “slot” in the defensive zone is emphasized. Goalies also demonstrate a more sophisticated level of play. They become the director of the defensive zone, not only making saves but covering and directing rebounds and giving direction to the defense. Skating is critical to the squirt goalie. The goalie must be able to come out of the net and challenge the break away opponent. And, the goalie must provide full coverage of the net as opponents passing skills are also improved.

The Squirt player is expected to understand positional offense, triangle offense, face-offs, box offense and transition play (going from offense to defense). Players learn the principals of forechecking (one and two player), back checking and defensive zone coverage. Penalties have a significant impact on the game at the Squirt level.

The Squirt player is expected to learn most of the rules of the game. As skaters are increasing in size, strength and speed, proper fitting equipment becomes more important. Warm ups, cool downs and stretching are introduced. Rink safety, heads up hockey and safety precautions are emphasized. Though checking is not permitted at the Squirt level, the game starts to become more physical. The Winter Club maintains a zero tolerance policy for rough play, retaliation, slashing, checking from behind and similar conduct. Coaches are instructed to self enforce this policy for their Winter Club team. If a coach observes this conduct, even though a referee does not call a penalty, the coach is expected to remove the skater from the game, counsel the skater and impose appropriate discipline. As with all levels of hockey at the Winter Club, the importance of team play, sportsmanship and respect for teammates and opponents is continuously emphasized.

The Winter Club offers A, B and C teams at the Squirt level. The A and B teams have two on ice practices each week. They also have up to two sessions each weekend. Consistent attendance is expected. The C team has at least one on ice practice during the week and up to two on ice sessions each weekend. Consistent attendance is also expected. The A, B and C teams participate in at least two tournaments and the state playoffs. Squirt team sizes range from 14 to 16 skaters and may carry two goalies. The goalies alternate in the goal and may skate out when not in the goal. Squirt hockey is fun, fast paced, team play.

By this level, skaters aged 11 & 12, many skaters are entering their seventh year of hockey. They are ready for this next level, which introduces full check hockey. In addition to continuing to develop skating and puck handling skills, the Pee Wee skater is taught how and when to give a body check and how to receive a check.

Team play incorporates more complex offensive and defensive set ups. Coaches will often adjust the type of defense based on the abilities of their skaters and the competition. Individual skills also evidence increased abilities and variety. Many consider Pee Wee hockey to be the premier level for youth hockey. It incorporates all aspects of the game of hockey. The only difference between a Pee Wee game and a high school, college or professional game is the length of the periods, which are 12 –15 minutes at the Pee Wee level.

The Winter Club offers an A, B and C teams at the Pee Wee level. Thus, the top skaters are placed on the A team, the next group of skaters to the B and so forth. Teams consist of 14 to 16 skaters. Some teams will carry two goalies. In that situation the goalies will alternate and may skate out when not in the goal. All teams participate in at least two tournaments and the State playoffs at their respective levels. The club often utilizes non-parent coaches when qualified and willing coaches are available. However, parent coaches often assist during practices and games. As skaters are increasing in size, strength and speed, proper fitting equipment becomes more important. Warm ups, cool downs and stretching are introduced. Rink safety, heads up hockey and safety precautions are emphasized. The Winter Club maintains a zero tolerance policy for rough play, retaliation, slashing, checking from behind and similar conduct. All coaches are instructed to self enforce this policy for their Winter Club team. (This policy applies at all levels, Atoms to Bantams and Girls) If a coach observes this conduct, even though a referee does not call a penalty, the coach is expected to remove the skater from the game, counsel the skater and impose appropriate discipline. As with all levels of hockey at the Winter Club, the importance of team play, sportsmanship and respect for teammates and opponents is continuously emphasized.

GIRLS

The Winter Club will try to accommodate teams at the U-12 and U-14 levels. The club encourages Mite aged girls to skate with the boys at the Mite level. However, they have the option of skating with the U10 girls if they wish to skate on an all girls team. Because there are a limited number of girl’s teams in the area, the girls will also play comparable boys teams. Other than the lack of checking, the game is the same for the girls; fun, fast paced hockey. If we are short the necessary number of skaters at any level, the Winter Club will try to create a cooperative team with another local club or combine levels so that any girl, at any age wishing to play hockey will have the opportunity to do so.

BANTAMS

The Bantam level is for skaters aged 13 & 14. Bantam aged ninth graders must decide whether to skate at the Bantam level or try out for their high school team. If they wish to try out for their high school team they may try out for the Phoenix before and after high school season teams. However, the Bantam age skater must commit to play at the Bantam level during the tryouts. There are often significant differences in the size of Bantam skaters and the physical nature of the game continues to increase. The combined affect of some skaters making high school teams, the physical nature of the game at this level and the required skill level often results in a drop in the number of participants. The Winter Club anticipates offering two competitive teams at the Bantam level. Teams consist of 14 to 16 skaters. Some teams will carry two goalies. In that situation the goalies will alternate and may skate out when not in the goal.

Teams have two on ice practices during the week and two sessions each weekend. The Winter Club will try to provide full ice sessions for each Bantam team early in the year. Conditioning, stretching, strength and healthy nutrition and diet concepts are encouraged at this level.

All teams participate in at least two tournaments and the State playoffs at their respective levels. The club encourages the teams to participate in additional tournaments. The club often utilizes non-parent coaches when qualified and willing coaches are available. However, parent coaches often assist during practices and games.

As skaters are increasing in size, strength and speed, proper fitting equipment becomes increasingly more important. Warm ups, cool downs and stretching are routinely practiced. Rink safety, heads up hockey and safety precautions are emphasized. The Winter Club maintains a zero tolerance policy for rough play, retaliation, slashing, checking from behind and similar conduct. All coaches are instructed to self enforce this policy for their Winter Club team. (This policy applies at all levels, Atoms to Bantams and Girls) If a coach observes this conduct, even though a referee does not call a penalty, the coach is expected to remove the skater from the game, counsel the skater and impose appropriate discipline. As with all levels of hockey at the Winter Club, the importance of team play, sportsmanship and respect for teammates and opponents is continuously emphasized.

Our season starts in early October with a combined one week skill development/tryout session. The players will be evaluated throughout this session as they participate in skill development drills and scrimmages. There are also special skill/tryout sessions for goalies. Skaters should attend their designated sessions with proper fitting equipment. Mouth guards are mandatory .

This session ends with a scrimmage weekend. However, skaters are evaluated throughout the entire session. The coaches at each level in conjunction with the head coaches at each level select the teams. The evaluators may also consider a skater’s prior year’s attendance, discipline and sportsmanship history when selecting the team. This process is followed for each team at each level. Since it is our goal to maximize player development a second year skater may be given preference over a comparable first year skater for the A & B teams at each level.

The Winter Club recognizes that, for the serious skater, tryouts can be an intense and pressure filled experience. By combining the tryout sessions with skill development the club attempts to make this a positive experience for our young skaters. The club is also interested in developing solid hockey players. Skating at the proper level will develop confidence and sound hockey skills. The Winter Club will make every reasonable effort to make certain that our young skaters will be placed at a level and on a team that will enable them to develop to their fullest potential.

In the event that a skater sustains an injury during tryouts or is prevented from participating in tryouts due to a preseason injury, the level coordinators along with the A and B team coaches shall have the discretion to place the skater on a team based on their knowledge of the skater’s skill level and the impact the injury will have on the skater’s participation level during the season.

OFFICIALS

The Winter Club uses USA Hockey certified Referees for all home games. Generally an experienced official works a game with a youth aged official. Officiating is a great way for our young skaters to learn the game, learn to think logically and control emotions and earn a few dollars! We encourage all skaters 12 years of age or older to attend an officials seminar prior to the start of the season to earn the required certification. Our Officiating coordinator then pairs the younger officials with either an older more experienced official or a certified parent official. It is important to remember that the young officials are often learning the fine art of officiating a fast paced game while providing a valuable service to the club. Please recognize that they will make mistakes as they learn how to officiate, just like the players and even all of us as parents. Be patient and allow them to develop the tools of officiating. If you have a concern regarding an official’s conduct, contact the officiating coordinator or a board member. We want to develop our officials in a constructive and positive manner which encourages them to continue to provide this service to the club.

Perhaps the most critical component to a successful hockey program is the commitment to qualified and dedicated coaches with an ability to effectively teach and coach their skaters. The Winter Club expends countless hours to assure quality coaching at all levels. All coaches are required to complete a detailed application describing their playing and coaching experience and individual coaching philosophies. The club follows USA Hockey requirements and obtains consent to perform a background investigation on each coach. All coaches are required to obtain a USA Hockey coaching certification for the level of their team. Periodically the club will host a USA Hockey coaching clinic to facilitate the certification of all our coaches.

The Winter Club provides all coaches with coaching materials and in-season clinics. The club also conducts periodic coaches meetings to address both on and off ice concerns, obtain feedback from the coaches, provide information on the most current trends in youth hockey and assist coaches in making adjustments to improve their teams. Annually, a certified trainer or physical therapist provides information on sports injuries, rehabilitation and training.

The club encourages interested parents to participate on the ice. We have learned, particularly at the younger levels, that we can offer a better experience for our younger skaters with more adults on ice providing individualized attention to these skaters. Also, by getting adults involved at the Atoms level we create a pool of potential coaches for the more advanced levels. At the higher levels, Pee Wee and above, the club also utilizes non-parent coaches. Most non-parent coaches have extensive coaching or playing experience.

Coaching hockey requires a substantial commitment of time, both on the ice with the skaters and off the ice preparing for practices and games. The Winter Club is extremely proud of our dedicated and experienced coaches.

TEAM MANAGERS

Next to the coaches, the team manager plays the largest role in your child’s hockey experience. The manager assists in scheduling games, coordinates volunteers for the snack bar, time keepers and scorers for each game, generates team rosters and score sheets, coordinates housing and activities at tournaments, and most importantly, informs parents of schedule changes, up coming events and general team information. The manager acts as the administrative aide for the team. The manager is responsible for the acquisition of equipment (socks, jerseys and goalie gear) from the club’s equipment coordinator, recording the jerseys’ assigned to the players and the return of the jerseys at the end of the season. Since the Winter Club expects that the coach will spend time off ice preparing practice plans, analyzing team abilities, participating in coaching meetings and continuing education programs in addition to attending practices and games, the manager is necessary to handle the team’s administrative activities.

The manager’s role will increase in responsibility as scheduling becomes less centralized and teams are required to coordinate games with other clubs and given the ability to participate in additional tournaments. Also, the cost of youth hockey continues to escalate. Fund raising activities will be coordinated through the team managers.

USA Hockey is the country’s national governing body for the sport of ice hockey under the Amateur Sports Act of 1978 as adopted by the 95^th Congress (Public Law 95-606). The organization establishes rules for the game, certifications for coaches, skill levels and progressions for age groups, resources and materials for coaches and programs, excess insurance coverage and codes of conduct for parents, coaches, players, officials and administrators.

USA Hockey has adopted a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY to make ice hockey a more desirable and rewarding experience for all participants. The intent of this policy is to require all players, coaches, officials, team officials and administrators and parents/spectators to maintain a sportsmanlike and educational atmosphere before, during and after all games. Officials are instructed to assess a minor penalty against players or coaches whenever a call is openly disputed or an argument follows, vulgar language including swearing is exhibited or there is a visual demonstration of dissatisfaction with an official’s decision. If the conduct persists the official shall assess a game misconduct penalty. Parents or spectators displaying inappropriate and disruptive behavior (obscene or vulgar language, taunting players, coaches or other spectators, threats of physical violence or physical violence, or, throwing of any objects at players, coaches or on the ice surface) will be identified by the on ice officials and removed from the viewing and game area. Violators may be subject to further disciplinary action by the local governing body. This policy applies to any dangerous play.

WAHA (Wisconsin Amateur Hockey Association) is Wisconsin’s local governing body sanctioned by USA Hockey to coordinate amateur hockey in Wisconsin. This organization establishes program districts and regions (the state is divided into six regions and each program within the region has a district or area), sanctions and rates programs (such as the Winter Club as a Division 1 level program), coordinates state tournaments and generally governs youth hockey within the state of Wisconsin. The Winter Club has a WAHA representative and the representative and members of the board attend state and regional meetings. Our teams are registered with both WAHA and USA Hockey.

Proper fitting equipment is essential to your child’s safety. Skaters will not be allowed on the ice unless they have all required equipment, including mouth guards. Neck guards are strongly recommended. It is absolutely critical that your child have a certified and properly fitting helmet. Similarly, good quality properly fitting skates are essential to your child’s success. New or used, the skates should fit your child and be of good quality. Skaters will also need shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, cup, breezers, shin guards and socks. Ask your child’s head coach if you have any concerns regarding your child’s equipment. The coach will share his or her knowledge and direct you to one of several stores in the area for a proper fit.

The club offers a used equipment sale at registration. If you have old equipment that you would like to sell or are interested in buying used equipment, you will be able to do so during registration in the same room!

For the first time skater we offer an equipment rental program. The program includes helmets, shoulder pads, elbow pads, shin guards and breezers (pants). We require a $50.00 deposit and at the end of the season, upon return of the equipment, you will get back $25.00. There will be a rental equipment sign-up sheet at registration, with distribution of the equipment on a later date in September.

The Winter Club follows the USA Hockey codes of conduct for coaches, players and parents. In addition, the Winter Club has additional rules for all players and parents. USA HOCKEY’S ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY APPLIES AT ALL LEVELS.

Winning is a consideration, but not the only one, nor the most important one. Care more about the child than the winning of the game. Remember players are involved in hockey for fun and enjoyment.

Be a positive role model to your players, display emotional maturity and be alert to the physical safety of players.

Be generous with your praise when it is deserved; be consistent, honest; be fair and just; do not criticize players publicly; learn to be a more effective communicator and coach, don't yell at players.

Adjust to personal needs and problems of players, be a good listener, never verbally or physically abuse a player or official; give all players the opportunity to improve their skills, gain confidence and develop self-esteem; teach them the basics.

Organize practices that are fun and challenging for your players. Familiarize yourself with the rules, techniques and strategies of hockey; encourage all your players to be team players.

Maintain an open line of communication with your players' parents. Explain the goals and objectives of your association.

Be concerned with the overall development of your players. Stress good health habits and clean living.

Do not force your children to participate in sports, but support their desires to play their chosen sport. Children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment. Make it fun.

Encourage your child to play by the rules. Remember, children learn best by example, so applaud the good plays of both teams. Do not embarrass your child by yelling at players, coaches, or officials. By showing a positive attitude toward the game and all of its participants, your child will benefit.

Emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit your young athlete. De-emphasize games and competition in the lower age groups.

Know and study the rules of the game, and support the officials on and off the ice. This approach will help in the development and support of the game. Any criticism of the officials only hurts the game.

Applaud a good effort in victory and in defeat and enforce the positive points of the game. Never yell or physically abuse your child after a game or practice - it is destructive. Work toward removing the physical and verbal abuse in youth sports.

Recognize the importance of volunteer coaches. They are very important to the development of your child and the sport. Communicate with them and support them.

The Winter Club is a private non-profit organization which emphasizes the development of basic hockey skills and the promotion of hockey as an enjoyable competitive activity as well as recreation. Our philosophy is to emphasize individual participation and provide relatively equal attention to players during practices and relatively equal playing time in scheduled games, except when an individual member does not participate in scheduled practice sessions, demonstrates attitudes or conduct not conducive to good team morale, displays unsafe or dangerous conduct and/or is being disciplined by the coach.

All players and parents are ambassadors on behalf of the Winter Club and USA Hockey, on and off of the ice. We are all committed to act appropriately at the ice rink, when traveling to tournaments, at hotels, at other rinks, and even in the locker room. It is our mission to encourage a positive and enjoyable experience for all involved, at all times.

PLAYERS

¨ I will conduct myself in a way that reflects positively upon my parent(s)/guardian(s), my friends, my teammates, my coaches, the club, and myself. I will not use alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs. I realize that swearing, nasty language, and disrespectful conduct is not acceptable on or off of the ice.

¨ I will abide by team rules, follow the directions of coaches and officials promptly and without complaint, and accept their decisions without verbal criticism or gestures that imply criticism. I will treat other players, coaches, parents, fans, and officials with respect, regardless of race, sex, creed, or ability.

¨ I am expected to attend all games and practices. If unable to attend, I will inform the coach at least one day ahead. I will practice hard, play hard, and graciously accept the outcome. Most of all, I will have FUN and be FUN to be with!

I will display good sportsmanship and fair play at all times and refrain from any and all dangerous play as defined by the rules of hockey.

The Winter Club is a private organization emphasizing the development of basic hockey skills and the promotion of hockey as an enjoyable competitive activity as well as recreation. Our philosophy is to emphasize individual participation by providing relatively equal attention to players during practices and relatively equal playing time in scheduled games, except when an individual member does not participate in scheduled practice sessions, demonstrates attitudes or conduct not conducive to good team morale, displays unsafe or dangerous conduct and/or is being disciplined by the coach.

PARENT’S/GUARDIANS

¨ I will provide positive support and encouragement for all skaters participating in youth hockey, and emphasize the importance of achieving common goals through teamwork.

¨ I understand that the club evaluators try to be as fair as possible. I will support all team placement decisions to my player and other parents

¨ I will place the emotional and physical well being of my skater ahead of my personal desire to win. I will remember that the game is for youth – not adults -- and will do my best to make youth sports fun for my child and all Winter Club players.

¨ I will not confuse players by countermanding the coaches’ instructions. I will follow team rules regarding arrival times, attendance, etc.

¨ I will be a respectful fan and encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, parents and officials at every practice, game, or other youth hockey event. I will treat other players, coaches, parents, fans, and officials with respect, regardless of race, sex, creed, or ability. I will refrain from criticism of referee decisions. I will set an example and conduct myself in a way that reflects positively on the skaters, the club, and other parents.

¨ The people active in this club are unpaid volunteers. I will support the hockey program and become involved to whatever extent I am able.

When players or parents violate these rules and/or disrupt team activities, coaches are authorized to enforce the rules using progressive discipline concepts. Coaches are authorized to implement up to a three game suspension depending upon the severity of the offense. If the coach or a parent feels that the conduct merits more than a three game suspension, the conduct shall be reviewed by the Winter Club board. The board has the authority to submit the issue to the coaches committee for resolution. If the board or the coaches committee determines that there is the potential for imposing more than a three game suspension then the individuals involved in the incident and their parents, the level coordinator and the team’s coach will be afforded an opportunity to present their position and concerns to the board in an informal investigation/meeting. The determination of the Board or the coaches committee is final.

Repeated and/or dangerous actions may be referred directly to the Board or Coaches committee for accelerated discipline. When continued disregard for the rules seriously disrupts club and/or team activities or behavior is determined to be dangerous to others, the Board of Directors reserves the right to terminate the player’s/parent’s membership. Any disciplinary actions imposed by a coach may be appealed to the Board of Directors, but the discipline imposed will remain in effect until the Board or the Coaches Committee has reviewed the matter and a decision has been made.

In addition to the above suspension process, when parents or players violate these rules and/or disrupt team activities, the Coaches, Age-Level Coordinators, coaches committee and the Board of Directors may also enforce the Codes of Conduct using the following additional procedures for violations:

1. First offense – The Age-Level Coordinator and Coach shall speak with the parent, player and others who witnessed the incident, and then talk with the parent and player and may write a letter of reprimand;

2. Second similar offense – The parent or parent and player shall appear before the Board or Coaches Committee to explain the incident;

3. Third similar offense – The parent or parent and player shall be suspended from all practices and games for the balance of the season.

Obviously, for serious violations of rules and policies the club is not obligated to invoke a progressive discipline process and may impose a discipline that is appropriate for the nature of the offense. Under WAHA rules, threatening legal action or recourse to the courts before exhausting all the rights as set forth in the association and the WAHA Bylaws and Constitution is considered to be ungentlemanly conduct and a violation of the rules entailing the immediate suspension and disqualification of any such member.

Assist: The pass or passes immediately preceding a successful scoring attempt. A maximum of two assists are credited per goal.

Attacking zone: When on the attack, the attacking zone is between your opponent’s blue line and goal line.

Backcheck: Forwards in their offensive zone skate back quickly to their own defensive zone to protect their goal and keep the opponent from shooting.

Backhand shot: A shot or pass made with the stick from the left side by a right-handed player or from the right side by a left-handed player.

Blue lines: Two blue, 12-inch wide lines running parallel across the ice on either side of the red line. The area between the blue lines is called the neutral zone.

Boards: The approximately 4 foot high structure surrounding the ice surface.

Boarding or Board-checking: A penalty that occurs by throwing an opponent violently into the boards

Breakaway or Breakout: A fast break in which an attacker with the puck skates in alone on the goalie, having gotten past or clear of the defensemen, trapping the opponents behind the play.

Butt-ending: A minor penalty which occurs when an opponent is hit with the top of a player’s hockey stick.

Center or Center forward: The center player in the forward line who usually leads the team’s attack when they are trying to score a goal. The center takes part in most of the face-offs and plays between the left and right wing.

Center face-off circle: A circle, measuring 30 feet in diameter, at the center of the ice where the puck is dropped in a face-off to start the game and after a goal has been scored.

Center ice: The area between the two blue lines, also called the neutral zone

Center line: A red, 12-inch wide line across the ice midway between the two goals.

Charging: Taking more than three strides before deliberately checking an opponent.

Check or Checking: Any defensive or guarding tactic used by hockey players accomplished by moving their bodies against an opponent to get the puck away.

Crease lines: The semi-circular area in from of each goal. If any offensive player is in the goal crease when a goal is scored, the goal is not allowed.

Cross-checking: A penalty when a player holds the stick in both hands, drives the shaft into an opponent, and no part of the stick is on the ice.

Defensemen: Two players who make up a team’s defensive unit usually stationed in or near their defensive zone to help the goalie guard against attack.

Defensive zone: The area from the blue line to the boards behind a teams goalie.

Deke or Deking: A decoying or faking motion by the puck-carrier; the art of making a defensive player think you are going to pass or move in a certain direction when you are not.

Delayed penalty or Delayed call: When an official raises his arm but does not blow his whistle, waiting to see the outcome of a play before calling a penalty. This is done so as not to penalize the non-offending team by stopping their momentum.

Delay of game: A minor penalty imposed on any player who purposely delays the game in any way, such as shooting or batting the puck outside the playing area or intentionally displacing the goalpost.

Elbowing: A minor penalty when a player strikes the opponent with an elbow to impede or disrupt the opponent.

Face-off circles and Spots: The various circular spots on the ice where an official and two players will hold a face-off to begin or to resume the action of the game.

Fighting: A major penalty when two or more players drop their sticks and gloves and fight. If an official deems one player to be the instigator, that player gets a game misconduct. The minor penalty for a less severe pushing and shoving fight is called roughing.

Forwards: Three players, the center, left wing and right wing, who make up the forward or attacking line.

Freeze the puck: To hold the puck against the boards with the skate or stick in order to stop play briefly or gain a face-off.

Goal: When the puck crosses the entire goal line and enters the net. The puck cannot be deliberately kicked in or batted in with a glove.

High-sticking: A minor penalty when a player checks an opponent by carrying the stick above the normal height of the opponent’s waist and hits, or menaces the opponent with it.

Holding: A minor penalty when a player uses his hands to grab and hold an opponent or opponent’s stick to impede the opponent’s progress.

Hooking: A minor penalty when a player attempts to impede the progress of another player by hooking any part of the opponent’s body with the blade of his stick.

Icing: A violation when the team in possession of the puck shoots it from behind the red center line across the opponent’s goal line into the end of the rink, but not into the goal. Play is stopped when a opponent (other than the goalie) touches the puck. The face-off is held in the offending team’s end of the ice. A shorthanded team cannot be called for icing.

Interference: When a player attempts to impede the motion of another player not in possession of the puck. Also called when a player is standing in the crease or otherwise makes contact with the goaltender.

Off-sides: A violation when both skates of an attacking player cross the opponent’s blue preceding the puck into the attacking zone.

Penalty box: The off ice location where a player is required to serve a penalty.

Penalty shot: A free shot awarded to an offensive player who was illegally interfered with, preventing a clear scoring opportunity. The shot is taken with only the goalie guarding against it.

Power play: When a team has more players on the ice than the opposition due to penalties.

Shorthanded: When a team has fewer players on the ice than the opposition due to penalties.

Slap shot: A shot at the goal where the player raises his stick above the waist when preparing to make the shot.

Slashing: A penalty when a player swings the stick from below the player’s shoulder at an opponent to impede the opponent’s motion, whether or not contact is made. Tapping an opponent’s stick is not slashing.