SIYHA Social Media Policy
South Indy Youth Hockey Association (SIYHA) Players, Parents and Coaches are highly visible representatives and are expected to uphold the values and responsibilities of the organization while meeting all requirements set forth by the USA Hockey and SIYHA. It is important that those representatives recognize the power of public media domains and the potentially negative impact that they can portray about players, coaches, and SIYHA. Individuals should always conduct themselves in an appropriate and professional manner. Never assume that anything you post on social media is private or temporary. Best judgment should be used at all times – individuals are reminded to pause before posing or sending posts or comments. Please be sure to get approval before posting on social media if it appears you are representing SIYHA. For the purpose of this Social Media Policy, the policy will encompass public communications through mediums such as (but not limited to): text, picture, and video messaging, Twitter, X, Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, LinkedIn, video games, and any other social media network that allows users to communicate online, as well as other forms of electronic communication. The policy will be applicable to all participants of SIYHA and their family members. SIYHA recognizes and appreciates the value and importance of social media. SIYHA also respects the right of all teams and association personnel to express their views publicly. At the same time, we must be aware of the hazards social media can present.
Social Media Violations
The following are examples of conduct through social media that are considered violations of the Social Media Policy and may be subject to disciplinary action by the organization. Examples of violations include (but are not limited to):
a) Negative or derogatory comments about any youth hockey organization, team, player, or official.
b) Any form of bullying, harassment, intimidation or threats against players, coaches or officials.
c) Photographs, video or comments promoting negative influences or criminal behavior, including but not limited to: drug use, alcohol abuse, public intoxication, hazing, sexual exploitation, etc.
d) Online activity that violates the current policies of SIYHA.
e) Derogatory, racist, or sexist comments.
Discipline
Any inappropriate activity or language in violation of the above prohibitions, including first time offenses, is subject to investigation and possible sanctions by SIYHA. Sanctions imposed by SIYHA Disciplinary Committee may include, but are not limited to, the following:
a) Written notification outlining the policy and requiring that the unacceptable content be removed, or the social network profile deactivated if deemed representative of the organization.
b) Temporary suspension from the team until prescribed conditions are met.
c) Suspension from the team for a prescribed period.
d) Indefinite suspension from the team.
e) Dismissal from the team.
f) Permanent dismissal from the SIYHA.