What is inappropriate behaviour in Hockey?
The list of inappropriate behaviours below is not exhaustive, nor does it exclude other actions that may fall short of the expected minimum standards within the sport. Any violation of the Spirit of Hockey - Code of Conduct should be promptly reported, and all complaints will be considered in accordance with the disciplinary regulations.
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This includes but is not limited to:
- Using inappropriate, insulting, foul, or discriminatory language or gestures during any hockey-related activities.
- Abusing, ridiculing, or shouting at players, coaches, umpires or officials.
- Smoking while engaged in any hockey matches and/or training.
- Consuming illegal substances during hockey-related events or activities.
- Being intoxicated during hockey matches and/or training.
- Endorsing or displaying behaviour that contradicts the values and policies of England Hockey.
- Making insulting or inappropriate statements or comments about England Hockey or any other person or organisation covered under this Code of Conduct.
- Using involvement in hockey to promote beliefs or behaviours that conflict with those of England Hockey.
- Engaging in criminal or illegal activities.
- Misrepresenting qualifications, exerting undue influence, or operating outside agreed parameters.
- Engaging in any form of sexually inappropriate or unwanted behaviour, including innuendo, flirting, or gestures, whether in person or electronically at any age.
- Providing alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to young participants.
- Condoning rule violations, rough play, or the use of prohibited substances.
- Using social or electronic media to publicly criticise players, parents, officials, or anyone else involved in hockey, potentially bringing the sport into disrepute.
- Publicly questioning the decisions or integrity of umpires, coaches, or officials during games, matches, or training sessions.
- Taking any action that threatens the health and safety of anyone involved in hockey activities.
- Entering the playing area without permission.
- Urinating in public.
- Failing to be impartial in decision making.
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If you witness inappropriate behaviour which does not comply with the Spirit of Hockey - Code of Conduct or brings hockey into disrepute, you have the option of raising a Misconduct Complaint. More details on who can do this and how this can be done are found in the Misconduct Complaints section on this website.
There are important time limits within which to raise a formal Misconduct Compliant, but before doing so consider whether the issue is best resolved directly with any other club or association involved.
If you need guidance on how to do this, contact the England Hockey Disciplinary Lead or your Area Disciplinary Administrator.
