Midam Hockey

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USA Hockey

STRONGER PENALTY EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY

October 30, 2019

Dear USA Hockey Board of Directors

We continue to receive reports of racial and other derogatory slurs and it is apparent that the current penalty in place is not enough of a deterrent.

As you’ll see in the letter linked here, which will go out to our entire membership today and also be made public via a news release, I am issuing a presidential directive that will now make any violation of Rule 601 (e. 3) a match penalty.

We will have further discussion around this topic at our upcoming Winter Meeting and this directive is just one step in a process that will also include additional education and an overall effort from all stakeholders in the game.

Again, thanks for your support and please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or feedback.

Yours in hockey,

Jim Smith

Committed to Hockey Excellence

Since 1994, the Mid American District Hockey, Inc. (MidAm), an affiliate of USA Hockey has been the governing body and premier developer of youth and amateur hockey talent in Ohio, Indiana, Western Pennsylvania, Kentucky and West Virginia. The District governs and supervises thousands of hockey teams, activities and events in each district.

Supporting the goals, mission and regulations of USA Hockey MidAm strives to develop and encourage sportsmanship between all players for the betterment of their physical and social well-being. In addition, MidAm helps build strong relationships between players, and the coaching and officiating communities.