Emotional Abuse Policy

The Mass Admirals are committed to fostering a positive and respectful environment for all participants. Emotional abuse of any kind is strictly prohibited, whether by an employee, volunteer, independent contractor, or another participant within our program.

Definition of Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse refers to a pattern of deliberate, non-physical behavior that can cause psychological or emotional harm to a participant. This may include verbal, physical, or neglectful actions that deny support and encouragement.

Prohibited Behaviors

Examples of emotional abuse that violate this policy include, but are not limited to:

Verbal Abuse:

• Personally attacking a participant with insults such as calling them "worthless" or "disgusting."
• Excessive or repeated yelling at a player in a way that is not constructive or motivational.

Physical Intimidation:

• Throwing supplies or equipment toward or at players.
• Physical acts in a threatening or aggressive manner.

It is important to note that appropriate coaching techniques—such as skill instruction, conditioning, team-building, constructive discipline, and motivation—do not fall under emotional abuse when applied in an age-appropriate and reasonable manner.

Consequences of Emotional Abuse

Any Mass Admirals member found engaging in emotional abuse may face disciplinary action, which could include suspension, permanent removal, or referral to law enforcement if necessary. Additionally, emotional abuse often overlaps with behaviors such as bullying, threats, harassment, and hazing, all of which are also prohibited under this policy.

Bullying, Threats, and Harassment

We are dedicated to maintaining a safe and inclusive hockey environment that is free from bullying, threats, or harassment. This policy aims to ensure consistency in handling such behavior and reinforces that any form of bullying or intimidation is unacceptable.

Bullying

Bullying involves using power or coercion to control or intimidate another person. It is defined as an intentional, persistent, or repeated pattern of behavior meant to humiliate, isolate, or physically harm someone.

Bullying can take various forms, including:

• Physical Bullying: Punching, kicking, or choking another participant.
• Verbal & Emotional Bullying: Using electronic communication (cyberbullying), threats, or degrading remarks to intimidate, humiliate, or socially exclude a player.

This behavior is prohibited at all MAss Admirals-sanctioned events and activities. While bullying is often peer-driven, any coach or adult responsible for players who is aware of bullying but fails to intervene will also be in violation of this policy.

The Mass Admirals are dedicated to creating a positive, respectful, and safe environment for all players. Violations of this policy will be taken seriously, and appropriate actions will be enforced to maintain the integrity of our program.