Hockey Calgary Launches Innovative Program targeting Social Change

CALGARY, Oct 6 /CNW/ - Hockey Calgary is taking a giant leap toward making the hockey rink a safe and respectful place for all. They are the first organization in Canada to require that sports parents complete a program which outlines appropriate behaviours.

Respect in Sport for Parents is a unique online certification program which provides parents with tools to protect their children and help ensure their enjoyment of sport as well as encourages positive and effective communication.  Parents are also able to evaluate their own behaviour by examining key behavioural traps frequently exhibited by parents whose children are involved in sports.

Former NHL player and abuse prevention advocate Sheldon Kennedy who co-created the Respect in Sport program with Wayne McNeil said "Hockey Calgary recently launched the Respect in Sport program for coaches and now they are the first to make the parent program mandatory.  It demonstrates their commitment to ensuring that the rink is a safe place for everyone."

According to Hockey Calgary, the No. 1 reason given for high turnover of minor hockey officials and coaches is poor parent conduct.

Kennedy added "for too long the bullies have had the power, this program can change that. The knowledge and tools these parents get can lead to a social change in minor sports.  Arenas, fields and gymnasiums can become places where bullying and abuse are not allowed to exist.

"E-learning has made it possible to educate all parents regardless of where they live, what time of day they are available and what official language they speak," said McNeil.

Respect in Sport is Canada's only on-line bullying, abuse, harassment and neglect prevention program for parents, coaches and community leaders.

For further information:

visit www.respectgroupinc.com or contact:
Wayne McNeil at 403-249-2963 [email protected]