Speak Out

Hockey Canada developed the Speak Out program in 1997 in order to educate and prevent bullying, harassment and abuse in hockey across Canada. Since then, a comprehensive program of training, education and awareness of bullying, harassment and abuse has been accomplished through workshops, resource materials and branch and association initiatives. All of these factors have focused on coaches, managers, safety people, parents, players and administrators.

Furthermore, it is the policy of Hockey Canada that there shall be no abuse and neglect, whether physical, emotional or sexual of any participant in any of its programs. Hockey Canada expects every parent, volunteer and staff member to take all reasonable steps to safeguard the welfare of its participants and protect them from any form of maltreatment.

Hockey Canada has mandated that all Team Officials must have Speak Out! Certification. The goal of the course is to educate participants on preventing bullying, harassment, and abuse. This course will assist in developing skills in communication and interaction with players in the hockey environment. Some Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) Members may offer Respect In Sport, which is the online equivalent to Speak Out!