All parents of a registered player, along with new players joining our association, are required by Hockey Eastern Ontario to complete the Respect in Sport - Parents programme One of the most common reasons coaches, managers, and officials (of all ages) cite for leaving sport is unacceptable parent behaviour. The Respect in Sport Parent Program is a proactive, educational program that empowers parents with the tools to ensure the game is enjoyable and respectful for themselves, their children and all other stakeholders in the game.

THE MANDATE

At least one parent/guardian per family must take the online course entitled “Respect in Sport Parent Program”.

The parent/guardian from each household must take the online course before the participant can go on the ice.

COST and DURATION

The online course will take one hour and will cost $12 (plus HST) per family, not $12 per person. The cost of the online course is the responsibility of the parent. Unfortunately, WEHL is unable to reimburse parents for this course.

ACTION REQUIRED: COMPLETE PROGRAM

The program can be accessed at https://heoparent.respectgroupinc.com/

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE COURSE

Q: I have completed the Respect in Sport Activity Leader Program, is this sufficient for satisfying the parent program as well?

A: No. It is necessary for parents that have completed the Activity Leader Program and/or Speak Out in the role of Team Officials to also complete the Parent Education Program. This program is tailored to the Role of the parent, providing information specific to the parental involvement, while the Activity Leader program has a different focus. During the introduction of the module, the difference are outlined. While there are some commonalities in messaging, the message is positive, and in only reinforced through repetition.

Q: Why am I required to complete the Program?

A: In addition to being an HEO condition of participation, it provides tools to deal with various situations that could arise in the course of your child’s participation in hockey, both as a parent, and in any leadership role you may have. This is a positive program to make good parents better, and will empower all of the good parents in the organization. Beyond hockey, this will contribute to the greater good of all parents in the wider community. This is also a significant step toward the long-term goal of social and culture change.

Q: What will happen if I do not complete it by the specified compliance deadline?

A: After the deadline for compliance, player participation may be denied until such time as the program has been completed.

Q: How do I complete the Parent Program?

A: The program can be accessed through the HEO website (www.hockeyeasternontario.ca) or directly at https://heoparent.respectgroupinc.com/. It is a one hour online curriculum with both audio and visual features that allows flexibility and does not have to be completed in one session.

Q: Is this required every year?

A: No, once you have completed it you are certified for five years.

Q: What if the household/individual has no access to a computer/internet?

A: Most public libraries provide internet access. Additionally, your local minor hockey association may also be able to assist by providing opportunities to use their computer(s) if they have one in their office and a convenient time can be arranged to access. Other options include schools and friends.

Q: What if I have dial-up internet connection?

A: The program is designed to be accessible by either high speed or dial-up.

Q: What if I do not have strong computer literacy skills?

A: Utmost attention to detail was taken to ensure the program was designed to make the program user friendly. If issues do arise there is online help available as well a 24/7 1-800-support line.