The Association believes that the Rep hockey program can become very competitive and is often considered to be the proving grounds for advancement to higher levels of hockey. In this spirit, players, parents and coaches must realize that the rules of equal ice time do not always apply. At the rep level, hard work, dedication and skill level often result in more ice time; while those players who choose to exercise less dedication, sometimes receive less. The coach should make every attempt to ensure all players are provided an opportunity to perform in every game.
The phrase “equitable ice time” should not be confused by anyone with the phrase “equal ice time”, however with the exception of discipline situations no player(s) is to be benched for extended amounts of time. Rep hockey does allow for the use of specialty lines during shorthanded or man advantage situations and stronger players may be utilized for these situations. The coach is also given wide latitude when it comes to who he plays during the last 5 minutes of the 2nd & 3rd periods, the last 10 minutes of the third period and overtime based on 15 periods. When periods are 10 minutes in length the coach can decide who plays with 5 minutes left in each period and overtime periods.
Ice time may be reduced during tournament, playoff or playdown games as the team advances. However the board does not support sitting players (skaters) for entire games.
Ice time may be suspended if a coach wishes to exercise a measure of discipline. Severe discipline issues should be documented and a discussion with the Director Rep hockey should take place.
Ice time for goalies should follow the same principles as that of skaters for regular and exhibition games. Goaltenders should be given every opportunity to demonstrate that they can perform in key game situations. Ice time may be reduced as a team advances through a tournament, playoff or playdown series, a coach will need to decide if he is going to rely on one goalie more than the other. If this is the case the coach must communicate this to the player (and the parent).
The coaching staff selected and signed all of the players, and they are to be treated in an equitable fashion for the complete season. It is of paramount importance that the coaches communicate clearly and effectively with the parents through the parent liaison throughout the season. When changes are made the player and parents affected must be informed. This should be done with the coach with the parent liaison.
Remember that skills are developed during practice and all players should be treated equally and provided the same opportunity for skill development during practice times.