Our number one goal is to assure that we provide a safe environment for all of our players.  Accordingly, we are implementing USA Hockey's SafeSport program.  While USA Hockey has long had systems in place to protect its participants from physical abuse, sexual abuse, and other types of abuse and misconduct that can be harmful to youth hockey players, the USA Hockey SafeSport Program is designed to update and collect USA Hockey's various policies to protect its participants. 

The USA Hockey SafeSport Program Handbook can be found on the USA Hockey website.  It includes various information on policies, education and training, screening and background check program, reporting of concerns of abuse, responding to concerns, and monitoring.  We encourage all members to familiarize themselves with this handbook, specifically the policies involving sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, bullying, threats and harassment and hazing.  USA Hockey maintains a zero tolerance policy for these which SAHA supports.

As part of our support for this program, SAHA has designated one of the Board members to serve as the SafeSport coordinator for our organization.  This individual will be designated as such on the SAHA website where you can also find their contact information.  For the 2012-13 season, this will be Don Dabkowski.  Detailed questions on the SafeSport program as well as the reporting of any violations and the process to handle reporting can be directed directly to this individual. 

In addition, SAHA has implemented several new or updated policies, including a Locker Room Policy, a Travel Policy and a Social Media, Mobile and Electronic Communications policy.  These are attached to this announcement and are effective immediately. 

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact any of the Board members directly.