Articles & Help

The reality? Research consistently shows that bullying and maltreatment are systemic issues, closely linked to leadership, policy, and governance—especially within the unique culture of sport. Interventions must be driven by psychological and sociological insights, using data-informed approaches. A static policy or annual event cannot dismantle harmful norms or build safer environments for kids. Sustainable change requires integrated strategies, with youth voice solutions at

In the 19th century, society fought to move children out of factories and into schools, recognizing they were not "little adults." Paradoxically, in hockey, we see something different. Policies that increasingly recognize developmental needs are juxtaposed by a culture and economy that increasingly treats children like mini professionals.

Everyone gets butterflies ..the secret is to get them to fly in formation...

Youth sport doesn’t exist in a bubble. What kids talk about in the dressing room is often a snapshot of their inner world.

One of the biggest mistakes in youth sport conditioning is treating kids like scaled-down adults. They’re not.

Some kids don’t act out — they shut down. Self-doubt, anxiety, or past failures can make a player feel like they don’t belong.

Coach Privately, Praise Publicly Correct quietly. Celebrate loudly. When coaching becomes punitive instead of supportive, we don’t just lo

Over the past 12 days, we’ve shared what hockey really gives kids, families, and communities — beyond wins and losses.

One of the hardest parts of healing after bullying or maltreatment is changing the beliefs we carry about ourselves. A cruel comment from...

CRC and VSC are essential for volunteers but do you also have a document review policy to address concerns and complaints before they start

Despite commendable efforts, Canada’s minor hockey system continues to grapple with entrenched bullying and maltreatment issues.

Minor hockey is about more than competition — it’s where kids build friendships, confidence, and so many skills they carry into...

Draft - pending review Abstract This paper explores developmentally appropriate interventions across minor hockey divisions, with a...

As parents, coaches, and leaders, we all play a role in making sure the rink is a place of growth rather than harm. Here are some evidence-based ways to create the best possible hockey experience for kids:

Pros and cons of growth mindset - research shows it works - but kids and parents may also need something deeper to mitigate the lasting impact of bullying and maltreatment.

That’s where counselors and therapists can help. They will work with you and/or your child and develop short-term goals for long-term gains.

Whether it is in youth sports or schools, bullying and maltreatment is often portrayed as something that can be solved with a workshop, a motivational talk, or a limited time promotion. Though increased awareness is always a good thing, they stop short of real solutions that need continuity and repetition.

It's about protecting the membership you are providing a service to. It isn't politics or personal, it is policy and preventative.

Don't let bullying and maltreatment thrive. Hold your board and association members to protecting the minors under your care. Protect the hearts behind the helmuts - adopt strong policy and governance, youth voice, leadership, and education for all your members.

Let’s rebuild the rink — with strong boards, clear boundaries, and voices that matter. 📬 Contact us:🌐 www.puckofftobullying.com📧 puckofftobullying@gmail.com📞 587-874-0080 📌 Follow us for more resources