BC Hockey's helmet policy took effect Dec. 1.
The policy requires all minor hockey coaches to wear a CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approved helmet during BC Hockey on-ice sanctioned events.
The failure to wear a helmet by a minor hockey coach in a BC Hockey sanctioned activity will result in the removal of BC Hockey's sanction of the event. Unsanctioned events are not covered by the association's insurance policy.
The motion that led to the policy was brought forward with coach safety in mind. There have been instances in recent years where minor hockey coaches have sustained severe injuries while on-ice at practice. These injuries may have been prevented if a CSA-approved helmet was worn and have led to a number of branches of Hockey Canada adopting similar helmet policies. B.C. becomes the seventh province to adopt such a policy; Hockey Alberta's helmet policy comes into effect Jan. 1, 2009.
After the decision was announced, a challenge was brought forward by an individual who observes the Sikh religion and claims the turban he wears in observance of his beliefs restricts his ability to wear a helmet. In response to this complaint, the executive committee of BC Hockey recently adjusted the policy slightly. An exemption to the helmet policy may be requested on the basis that the wearing of a helmet would interfere with the observance of a religious custom.
For more information about BC Hockey, readers can visit www.bchockey.net or email [email protected].
