SMHA Social Networking Policy

Social networking is defined as using the Internet to send messages, videos, images, writing blog
entries, etc. Social networks focus on building communities online with others of similar interests. The
SMHA understands and appreciates the importance of social networking as it relates to the personal
lives of its members.

Some common sense rules should guide SMHA members when using social media. Failure to follow
these guidelines may result in disciplinary action from the SMHA Discipline Committee or a Zone
Discipline Committee. Parents in violation of this policy may be disciplined through the Parent Code of
Conduct by their home zone and/or by SMHA.

Members should not make statements that are demeaning to SMHA volunteers, its programs,
employees, on-ice or off-ice officials, players, members, coaches, sponsors or any other persons
associated with SMHA.

Members should not communicate confidential information that may include medical history (injuries
or other), family situations, game plans or strategies and any other information that is deemed
confidential.

Members should not share photos, videos or comments that promote negative influences or criminal
behavior, including but not limited to: physical violence, sexual or other harassment, drug use, alcohol
abuse, public intoxication, etc. (Example: posting a fight online would be considered a violation).
Members should not post inappropriate, derogatory, racist or sexist comments of any kind that
contradict the policies outlined by SMHA, Hockey Saskatchewan and Hockey Canada’s Maltreatment
Section 11.4.

Members should be advised that SMHA owns and maintains all legal rights to its email and network,
and any email passing through these systems is owned by SMHA. Keep in mind, emails may be backed
up, otherwise copied, retained, or used for legal, disciplinary, or other reasons and it may be subject to
use for purposes not anticipated by the sender. Any email sent to or from certain public or
governmental entities may be considered public record. Do not expect privacy when using a corporate
network and corporations have the right to monitor any and all use of their computer network.
Members should not contact other players, coaches, team officials or referees via any form of social
media.

Teams are required to obtain parental permission prior to posting photos or personal information
about members of their team to social media accounts. One example would be the requirement for
parental permission prior to posting player profile features on social media.

The use of cameras of any type is prohibited within team dressing rooms, washrooms and shower areas
or other areas where privacy should be expected (i.e. hotel rooms).
Updated April 3, 2023