SOCIAL MEDIA AND NETWORKING POLICY

1. INTRODUCTION

For the purpose of this Social Media and Networking Policy, this policy will encompass public communication through such internet mediums and websites as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Linkedin and any other social media network that allows users to communicate online.

The policy will be applicable to all members of the Superleagues Ball Hockey Community, including Directors, Teams, Fury Members, Coaches, players, players’ family members and supporters.

Superleagues recognizes and appreciates the value of social media and the importance of social networking to all of it’s members.  Superleagues also respects the right of all Teams and Association personnel to express their views publicly. At the same time, we must be aware of the dangers social media and networking can present.

The purpose of this policy is to educate the Superleagues Community on the risks of social media and to ensure all Teams and Association personnel are aware that the conduct deemed to be inappropriate may be subject to disciplinary action by the Team, Superleagues Ball Hockey, Alberta Minor Ball Hockey Association and/or the Canadian Ball Hockey Association.

2. SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES

Comments or remarks of an inappropriate nature which are detrimental to a Team, the Association or an individual will not be tolerated and will be subject to disciplinary action.

It should be recognized that social media comments are on the record and instantly published and available to the public and the media.  Everyone including Association and/or Team personnel, players, corporate partners and media can review social media communications.  You should conduct yourself in an appropriate and professional manner at all times.

Refrain from divulging confidential information of a persona; or tema related nature.  Only divuldge information that is considered public.

Use your best judgement at all times.  Pause before posting.  Ultimately, you are solely responsible for your comments and they are published for the public record.

3. SOCIAL MEDIA VIOLATIONS

The following are examples of conduct through social media and networking mediums that are considered violations of the Superleagues Ball Hockey Social Media and Networking Policy and may be subject to disciplinary action by the Team, Association, Alberta Minor Ball hockey Association and /or Canadian Ball Hockey Association.

Any statement deemed to be publicly critical of Association officials or detrimental to the welfare of a member Team, the Association or an individual.

Divulging confidential information that may include, but is not limited to:

• Player injuries;
• Trades or other player movement; or
• Any other matter of a sensitive nature to a member Team, the Association or an individual

Negative or Derogatory comments about any of the Team, Association, and/or Superleagues Ball Hockey Directors, programs, players or any member of Superleagues Ball Hockey

Any form of bullying, harassment or threats against players, coaches, or Team members.

Photographs, videos or comments including but not limited to:

1. Drug use
2. Alcohol abuse
3. Hazing
4. Sexual exploitation, etc.

Photographs shall not be taken in any dressing room, washroom or other private area and posted at any time

Inappropriate, derogatory, racist or sexist comments of any kind

Online activity that is meant to alarm other individuals or misrepresent the fact or truth

4. DISCIPLINE

The Association will investigate reported violations of this policy in a timely manner.  If a violation is determined to have occurred, the Association will impose appropriate disciplinary action including suspension, possible expulsion, and/or removal of said post.

Anyone found to have violated this code of conduct will have the right to appeal to the appropriate disciplinarian of the Association

5. A FINAL NOTE

When used appropriately, Social media is a powerful tool that can benefit any Team or Association.  All members of Superleagues Ball Hockey should remember to use discretion with all Social Media and Networking platforms.  Think before you post.  You cannot undo a post made in anger or haste.

Superleagues would also like the thank Hockey Manitoba for permission to use parts of this document.