Vancouver Female Ice Hockey Association (VFIHA) supports the efforts made by organizations like the Coaching Association of Canada towards #AbuseFreeSport and pledges to align our practices with Phase 1 of the Responsible Coaching Movement and commit to ensuring that our athletes and coaches are protected.

Phase 1 of the Responsible Coaching Movement involves three components that are already a key part of how we assign, teach, and guide our coaches. These components are:

  • Rule of Two: This rule states that there will always be two screened and NCCP trained or certified coaches with an athlete. When a second coach is not available, a screened volunteer, parent or adult can be recruited.
  • Background Screening: This involves requiring coaches to complete criminal record checks, interviewing potential coaches, and conducting reference checks.
  • Respect and Ethics Training: This involves having coaches complete training programs such as Respect in Sport (http://respectgroupinc.com/respect-in-sport/).

We also strive towards gender inclusiveness within our coaching team. We try to have as many female coaches as possible at all levels, and see ourselves as having a responsibility towards growing the number of female coaches. This involves encouraging female parents and graduating players to get involved.

More information about the Responsible Coaching Movement can be found here: https://www.coach.ca/responsible-coaching-movement-p160721