Conflict Resolution

Working Together to Resolve Concerns

At the Tri-Cities Female Ice Hockey Association (TCFIHA), we are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and positive environment for every player, family, volunteer, coach, and official.

From time to time, questions or concerns may arise. When they do, we encourage respectful communication and early resolution whenever possible.

Whenever possible, concerns should be resolved within the team before being escalated.

Guiding Principles

When addressing concerns, everyone is expected to:

  • Communicate respectfully and professionally.
  • Focus on facts rather than assumptions or emotions.
  • Allow each person an opportunity to be heard.
  • Work collaboratively toward a solution.
  • Respect the privacy and confidentiality of those involved.

Step 1 – The 24 Hour Rule

Parents and guardians are asked to wait at least 24 hours after a game, practice, or team event before raising concerns with a coach or team official.

This cooling-off period allows everyone time to reflect and approach the conversation calmly and constructively.

Exceptions

The 24-hour rule does not apply if:

  • a participant's safety is at risk
  • abuse, bullying, harassment or discrimination is involved
  • immediate action is required

These concerns should be reported immediately in accordance with BC Hockey and Hockey Canada Safe Sport policies. Please contact our Risk Manager at risk@tricitiesfemaleicehockey.ca for any issues relating to participant safety, abuse, bullying, harassment and discrimination. 

Step 2 – Speak with the Appropriate Team Official

Most concerns can be resolved through respectful conversation.

Whenever appropriate:

The Team Manager may help facilitate conversations between families and coaches when appropriate.

Step 3 – Submit Your Concern in Writing

If the concern cannot be resolved through discussion, the parent or guardian should submit a written summary to the Team Manager.

The written concern should include:

  • the facts of the situation
  • date(s) and location(s)
  • individuals involved
  • any steps already taken to resolve the matter
  • the desired outcome

Written concerns help ensure there is a clear understanding of the issue and provide an accurate record of communication.

Step 4 – Team Resolution

The Team Manager, in consultation with the Head Coach and Division Coordinator (when appropriate), will:

  • gather information from all parties involved
  • ensure everyone has an opportunity to be heard
  • review the facts objectively
  • facilitate respectful discussion
  • work toward a fair and reasonable resolution
  • communicate the outcome to the parties involved

Whenever possible, concerns will remain at the team level.

Step 5 – Escalation to the Association

If the concern:

  • cannot be resolved at the team level,
  • involves repeated behaviour,
  • involves a serious breach of policy or Code of Conduct,
  • or requires interpretation of Association policy,

the matter may be referred to the appropriate TCFIHA Director or Executive.

Depending on the nature of the concern, this may include:

  • Division Coordinator
  • Risk Manager
  • Vice President
  • Conduct Committee or Discipline Committee (where applicable)

These issues should be documented using the Conduct Concern Submission Form and sent to the Risk Manager at risk@tricitiesfemaleicehockey.ca. The Board will review matters that require Association-level involvement in accordance with TCFIHA policies and applicable BC Hockey, PCAHA, and Hockey Canada regulations.

Matters That Should Be Reported Immediately

The following concerns should not follow the standard team dispute process and should be reported immediately:

  • harassment
  • bullying
  • discrimination
  • abuse or maltreatment
  • violence or threats
  • violations of Safe Sport policies
  • criminal activity

These matters will be handled in accordance with Hockey Canada's Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS), BC Hockey policies, and TCFIHA Policies. These issues should be documented using the Conduct Concern Submission Form and sent to the Risk Manager at risk@tricitiesfemaleicehockey.ca. 

Anonymous Complaints

TCFIHA is unable to investigate anonymous complaints.

Individuals bringing forward a concern must identify themselves so that the matter can be reviewed fairly and all parties have an opportunity to respond.

Information will be shared only with those who need it in order to investigate and resolve the matter.

Our Commitment

Every concern will be treated respectfully, fairly, and as confidentially as circumstances allow.

Our shared objective is to foster a positive hockey experience where players can develop in an environment built on respect, communication, teamwork, and sportsmanship.