Being a hockey parent is a worthwhile, rewarding endeavour. Parents are often called upon to wear many different volunteer hats. A hockey parent may be a coach, evaluator, director or a referee – any of whom is required to make decisions in everyone’s best interest while still being a mom or dad wanting what’s best for his or her own child. Parents may wrestle with reconciling their roles and controlling their passion as fans while being faced with the constant challenge of ‘doing the right thing’. Hockey Canada is committed to helping those parents meet these challenges to ensure they continue to enjoy the game and have as much fun as their kids.

Sportsmanship Starts in the Stands was developed to address the behaviours and attitudes that have become a negative influence in the game of hockey in BC.  The intent of the program is to ensure that the environment at BC Hockey events and initiatives is positive for everyone.  It was also developed to ensure the level of parent expectations was consistent across the Province.