VALLEY WILD CONFLICT RESOLUTION POLICY

The purpose of this policy is to establish a standard approach to conflict resolution so that Valley Wild members can resolve difficulties or misunderstandings in a timely and transparent manner. It will present a line of authority which must be respected so that the process will be logical, coordinated, and effective.

During the hockey year, situations may arise among players, coaches, administrators and parents that lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations or conflicts. The flow of conflict resolution should be similar for all Valley Wild members. Valley Wild members include all players, parents, coaches, team officials, volunteers, referees and executive members. 

All parties should adhere to the following protocol in resolving conflicts. 

1. Observe “the 24 hour rule”. Games and practices are not appropriate places to attempt to resolve conflicts. Allow a minimum of 24 hours to pass prior to addressing an issue and use this cooling-off period to validate facts and organize your thoughts.

2. Every effort should be made to resolve conflicts at the team level. This may involve a player/parent concern with a team official, a team official concern with a player or parent or a conflict between players or between parents. It is recommended that communication always be initiated away from the rink. Any face to face meeting shall include a third party such as the team manager or extra parent from the team. 

3. If a resolution cannot be gained at the team level, the valley wild chair or vice chair should be contacted. The Chair or vice shall make a significant effort to facilitate a resolution.

4. If the conflict is still not resolved or both the Chair and Vice Chair are in a conflict of interest, the issue should be elevated to the Chairperson of the Conflict Resolution committee. Once elevated, the complaint must be in written format (form A). At this point, the issue will be dealt with by the Conflict Resolution committee.  Once the complaint/concern has been received, the committee will conduct and complete their investigation within 7 days and render a written decision (form A1) within 24 hours of the completion of the investigation. A decision at this point is considered final.