Suspensions
After the game, it is important to go over the penalty minutes given on the gamesheet. Make sure the Head Coach is immediately made aware of any penalties with a GM, INS, AGG, GRM or MP. These usually involve a suspension and require the player to sit out at least the next game.
Here is some vital information from the OWHA with regard to suspensions:
- When a player or coach receives a penalty that might involve a suspension (GM, INS, AGG, GRM or MP) or any game ejection (5-minute major) the team MUST notify the OWHA.
- All reportable suspensions must be reported by the team within 24 hours, or before their next game if earlier. Send an email to [email protected] and copy in [email protected].
- Please indicate in the subject line, the Association (Woolwich) and the team (with your OWHA team number), team category, player’s name and penalty code.
- Suspensions NOT reported within the required time period will be subject to review and/or suspension to the Head Coach.
- A continual question is “How many games does the player or coach get for this?” The answer is straightforward and is at the back of the OWHA Handbook. Remember though, if this is the second or more suspension of the year for this player or coach, or if there is more than one suspendible offence in a game to an individual, this will increase. You MUST advise the OWHA of this, failure to do so will result in further game suspensions. Do not guess. Unfortunately, each year some teams do this resulting in further suspensions that aren't necessary.
- The OWHA Handbook is available online at www.OWHA.on.ca in pdf format.
- Do NOT ask an on-ice official, or a worker at a tournament, how many games is this, and can my player return or not. Often the wrong answer is given, and at the end of it all, the one that pays is the Head Coach if there is a mistake.
- Suspensions CANNOT be served in Exhibition games. The player or coach must not participate in these games while under suspension.
- If a coach or player is suspended ANY number of games, they are permitted to practice. The OWHA does retain the right to prohibit practicing in cases of extreme suspensions, however unless otherwise advised from now on you may practice with your team and participate in team functions, other than games.
- As each game is played, be sure to indicate the suspended player or staff member. Make sure the suspended coach does NOT sign the sheet when serving a suspension. Do NOT cross the player’s name off either.
- When the final game has been served, call or email the OWHA confirming the suspension has been served and requesting permission to return to play.
- Any suspension received by a pick-up player must be served with the team she is rostered with, unless the suspension has been cleared with the pick-up team.
Suspensions are something that no one likes experiencing, but if you need any assistance, or are unsure about a suspension please call.
Not knowing and following the rules is not an acceptable excuse. Remember, as the HEAD COACH, you are the one who will sit games if the OWHA is not notified of suspensions.
Suspensions - Local League
All OWHA coach suspensions with respect to a GM20 or a GM21 will be reviewed by the league to determine whether there will be any additional suspensions by the league.
Suspensions - Women’s Senior Rep teams
In addition to emailing [email protected] and [email protected], the League President must be contacted within 24 hours. Please also refer to the Southwestern Ontario Women’s Hockey League (SOWHL) By-Laws for information regarding suspensions and infractions.