LIVONIA HOCKEY ASSOCIATION 2019 - 2020 BYLAWS - Ngin
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LIVONIA HOCKEY ASSOCIATION
2019 – 2020 BYLAWS
LHA_Bylaws_2019_2020_v1LIVONIA HOCKEY ASSOCIATION
2019 – 2020 BYLAWS
Contents
ARTICLE I – LHA PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................... 1
ARTICLE II – AMENDMENTS ............................................................................................................................................. 1
SECTION A – Approval ...................................................................................................................................................... 1
SECTION B – Restrictions .................................................................................................................................................. 1
ARTICLE III – REGISTRATIONS & RESIDENCY.............................................................................................................. 1
SECTION A – Player Registration and Eligibility ............................................................................................................... 1
SECTION B – Team Registration ........................................................................................................................................ 3
SECTION C – Travel Teams [Including Women/Girls Only Teams] ................................................................................. 4
ARTICLE IV – PLAYER SELECTION .................................................................................................................................. 5
SECTION A – LHA House Program Draft .......................................................................................................................... 5
SECTION B – Replacement Players .................................................................................................................................... 6
ARTICLE V – UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT ..................................................................................................................... 6
SECTION A – Uniforms ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
SECTION B – Goalie Equipment ........................................................................................................................................ 6
SECTION C – Protective Equipment ................................................................................................................................... 6
SECTION D – Responsibilities and Restrictions ................................................................................................................. 7
ARTICLE VI – ICE TIME ALLOCATION ............................................................................................................................ 7
ARTICLE VII – SYSTEM OF GAME PLAY – LHA HOUSE PROGRAM .......................................................................... 7
SECTION A – Goalie Playing Time [10U, 12U, 14U Divisions] ........................................................................................ 7
SECTION B – 8U Division Rules ........................................................................................................................................ 8
SECTION C – LHA League 10U and 12U Division Rules ................................................................................................. 8
SECTION D – Non-LHA League 10U and 12U Division Rules ....................................................................................... 10
SECTION E – 14U Division Rules .................................................................................................................................... 10
ARTICLE VIII – GAME REGULATIONS ........................................................................................................................... 10
SECTION A – Period Length and Penalty Time................................................................................................................ 10
SECTION B – Official Scoring Record ............................................................................................................................. 11
SECTION C – Prompt Starting and Completion Time ...................................................................................................... 11
SECTION D – Minor Officials .......................................................................................................................................... 11
SECTION E – Penalties ..................................................................................................................................................... 11
SECTION F – Protests ....................................................................................................................................................... 12
SECTION G – Eligibility Disputes .................................................................................................................................... 12
SECTION H – LHA League Standings .............................................................................................................................. 12
SECTION I – LHA House Program Playoff Games – Tie Breakers .................................................................................. 13
SECTION J – MAHA District Playdown Representative .................................................................................................. 14
SECTION K – Forfeits ....................................................................................................................................................... 14
ARTICLE IX – PLAYER CONDUCT AND REGULATIONS ............................................................................................ 14
SECTION A – Conduct ...................................................................................................................................................... 14
SECTION B – Player/Team Financial Obligations ............................................................................................................ 14
ARTICLE X – SYSTEM OF PLAY – NON-LHA LEAGUE GAMES ................................................................................ 15
SECTION A – Non-LHA League Membership ................................................................................................................. 15
iSECTION B – Special Rules .............................................................................................................................................. 15
ARTICLE XI – DIRECTORS OF CLASSIFICATIONS ...................................................................................................... 15
SECTION A – Authority .................................................................................................................................................... 15
SECTION B – Attendance Policy ...................................................................................................................................... 16
ARTICLE XII – CONVENERS ............................................................................................................................................. 16
SECTION A – Appointment .............................................................................................................................................. 16
SECTION B – Authority .................................................................................................................................................... 16
ARTICLE XIII – COACHES AND MANAGERS ................................................................................................................ 16
SECTION A – Appointments ............................................................................................................................................. 16
SECTION B – Removal and Resignation .......................................................................................................................... 17
SECTION C – LHA Bylaws, MAHA and USA Hockey Rules ......................................................................................... 17
SECTION D – Team Conduct ............................................................................................................................................ 17
SECTION E – Resurfacing ................................................................................................................................................ 17
SECTION F – Equal Ice Time ........................................................................................................................................... 17
SECTION G – Practice Sessions ........................................................................................................................................ 18
SECTION H – Exhibition Games ...................................................................................................................................... 18
SECTION I – Player Transportation .................................................................................................................................. 18
SECTION J – Player Suspension ....................................................................................................................................... 18
SECTION K – Unsportsmanlike and/or Inappropriate Conduct ........................................................................................ 18
SECTION L – Financial Responsibilities and Reports ...................................................................................................... 19
SECTION M – Out of Town Tournaments ........................................................................................................................ 19
SECTION N – Gender Equity Policy ................................................................................................................................. 19
SECTION O – Locker Room Policy .................................................................................................................................. 20
SECTION P – LHA Picture Day ........................................................................................................................................ 20
ARTICLE XIV – LHA CONDUCT ....................................................................................................................................... 20
SECTION A – Coach/Convener Conduct .......................................................................................................................... 20
SECTION B – Parent/Spectator Conduct ........................................................................................................................... 20
ARTICLE XV – FUND RAISING ........................................................................................................................................ 20
ARTICLE XVI – TROPHIES, AWARDS AND GIFTS ....................................................................................................... 21
SECTION A – Team and Individual Trophies or Awards ................................................................................................. 21
SECTION B – Gifts ........................................................................................................................................................... 21
ARTICLE XVII – LHA SPONSORSHIP .............................................................................................................................. 21
SECTION A – Team Amounts........................................................................................................................................... 21
SECTION B – Contributions.............................................................................................................................................. 22
SECTION C – Use of Sponsorship Contributions ............................................................................................................. 22
SECTION D – Sponsorship Agreement ............................................................................................................................. 22
SECTION E – Recognition ................................................................................................................................................ 22
SECTION F – Violations ................................................................................................................................................... 22
ARTICLE XVIII – CHAMPIONSHIP BANNERS ............................................................................................................... 23
ARTICLE XIX – ADMINISTRATIVE RULES ................................................................................................................... 23
SECTION A – Check Signing Authority ........................................................................................................................... 23
SECTION B – Conflict of Interest ..................................................................................................................................... 23
ARTICLE XX – SPRING/SUMMER .................................................................................................................................... 23
iiATTACHMENTS:
1. LHA Parent Team Cost Obligation Agreement
2. LHA Locker Room Policy
3. LHA Sponsorship Agreement
4. LHA House Program Draft Manual
5. LHA Initiation Program Draft Manual
iiiLIVONIA HOCKEY ASSOCIATION
2019 – 2020 BYLAWS
The Livonia Hockey Association (LHA) shall be governed by the rules and regulations of the Michigan Amateur
Hockey Association (MAHA) except as amended herein. A copy of these bylaws shall be filed annually with
MAHA.
ARTICLE I – LHA PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS
Participation in the LHA program is limited to individuals duly registered pursuant to Article III with residents
having preference.
ARTICLE II – AMENDMENTS
SECTION A – Approval
An amendment to any bylaw shall be accepted with the approval of two-thirds (2/3) of the members of the
LHA Board of Directors.
SECTION B – Restrictions
No action shall be taken or any motion passed by the Board of Directors contrary to the LHA Bylaws or the
LHA Constitution. These articles may only be amended by the process laid down in Article II Section A.
ARTICLE III – REGISTRATIONS & RESIDENCY
SECTION A – Player Registration and Eligibility
All players wishing to participate in the Initiation through 16U/18U Divisions of the LHA program must
register prior to participating in the hockey program. The Board of Directors shall publicize its process for
player registration by any means reasonably calculated to apprise potential registrants. An appropriate
registration form must be completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian.
1. Residency Requirements
a. The number of non-residents shall be reported annually to the Livonia Department of Parks and
Recreation by the Secretary of the LHA.
b. Livonia residents shall comprise fifty percent (50%) of the total program. (House and Travel)
c. Any registrant qualifies as a Livonia resident if their legal residency falls into one of the following
categories:
i. Within the corporate limits of the City of Livonia
ii. Within the boundaries of the Livonia Public School District
iii. Within the boundaries of the Clarenceville School District
1d. Legal residency shall be defined as a minor child living with his/her natural parents, adoptive parents,
legal guardians as appointed by court order, wards of the court living in a foster home or a minor child
living with his/her natural parents through a divorce decree on a permanent or temporary basis who
reside in the corporate boundaries of Livonia, the Livonia Public School District or the Clarenceville
Public School District and pay property taxes to one of the above.
2. Date of Registration
Registration for the LHA program shall be held at a time and date set at the discretion of the Board of
Directors.
3. Registration Fee
An annual registration fee in an amount to be established by the Board of Directors shall be paid with the
filing of an application for registration. This fee shall include a membership fee and administrative costs. The
non-resident registration fee may include a surcharge.
4. Registration Fee Refunds
All registration fees are non-refundable, unless stated otherwise on the registration form for that season. The
Board of Directors may vote at a regularly scheduled meeting to refund a registration fees on a case-by-case
basis.
5. Proof of Age and Residency
Each registrant must establish a permanent record with the LHA. If not already established, at the time of
registration, each registrant submits a copy of his/her birth certificate or birth registration. To establish
residency, each registrant shall present his/her parent's or legal guardian's driver’s license and most recent
utility bill each season. It shall be the responsibility of each registrant to conclusively demonstrate residency.
6. Age or Division Classification Change
a. Travel Program: A player may move up a division with the following:
i. If one such player is being moved up on any one team, selection by the head coach is
required.
ii. If more than one (1) per team; a player may move up a division with all of the following:
1. Selected by head coach; and
2. Parent's or legal guardian's written permission; and
3. Approval by Travel Director and any one (1) Director of the Executive Board.
b. House Program: A player may move up a division with all of the following:
i. Division is not completely filled and has no waiting list; and
ii. Application by parent or legal guardian prior to being placed on a team’s roster; and
iii. Division Director's approval.
27. Withdrawals
a. All releases granted must be approved by the President, player's Division Director and player's head
coach.
b. A resident player who voluntarily withdraws from a Travel team shall, subject to eligibility, be placed
on a LHA House program team when possible. If this is not practical, he/she shall be placed on the
division waiting list in a position commensurate with the date of notification.
8. Program Registration Procedures
In accordance with specific procedures, established by the Board of Directors, participants shall be registered
annually as follows:
a. All current participants shall be allowed to mail in registrations for a period of time set by the Board
of Directors;
b. Thereafter, open registration shall be conducted through the LHA office. Open registration for
Livonia residents only shall begin on a Monday as set by the Board of Directors, and continue for a
period of two (2) weeks;
c. Thereafter, and no earlier than the expiration of the two (2) week period set forth in Section 9.b above,
open registration shall be conducted through the LHA office for all prospective participants,
regardless of residency.
9. Restrictions
All participants registered shall be afforded an opportunity to play in the LHA subject to final division team
count as determined by the Board of Directors.
SECTION B – Team Registration
All teams and players must be registered with MAHA prior to participation in league or exhibition games.
The LHA shall submit a roster to MAHA which includes the players, coaches and manager of each team. All
LHA teams, House and Travel, must:
a. Participate in a league as defined by MAHA’s Rules and Regulations concerning league requirements;
and
b. Conform to all USA Hockey and MAHA Age Classification, Division Classification and Registration
Rules and Regulations.
c. Receive approval from the Board of Directors for the selection of league/division.
1. Team Roster
Team rosters shall be prepared by the LHA using current USA Hockey software/forms. Rosters shall be
distributed to House program teams as soon as possible after the LHA House program draft. Rosters shall be
distributed to Initiation teams as soon as possible after the LHA Initiation program draft. Rosters shall be
distributed to Travel teams as soon as possible after their tryout selections for both spring and fall seasons.
The head coach shall be responsible for completion and return of the team roster to the LHA office.
32. Team Registration Form
The USA Hockey team registration form and insurance form shall be prepared by the LHA and distributed to
each team along with team rosters. These forms are to be signed and returned immediately to the LHA office.
3. Restrictions
A HEAD COACH MUST NOT PERMIT A LEAGUE OR EXHIBITION GAME TO BE PLAYED
PRIOR TO A TEAM BEING DULY REGISTERED WITH MAHA. FAILURE TO COMPLY SHALL
RESULT IN SUSPENSION OF THE HEAD COACH FOR A MINIMUM OF ONE (1) GAME IN
ADDITION TO ANY PENALTY IMPOSED BY MAHA.
SECTION C – Travel Teams [Including Women/Girls Only Teams]
1. Player Eligibility
Eligibility for 8U through 16U/18U (or equivalent) Divisions:
Each team is expected to maintain the minimum Livonia-ratio announced in Article III, Section A.1.b. A
head coach may deviate from the minimum Livonia-ratio announced in Article III, Section A.1.b. with the
approval of the LHA President and LHA Travel Directors, so long as the entire LHA maintains the minimum
Livonia-ratio announced in Article III, Section A.1.b.
2. Player Selection
a. Players selected for the Travel teams may be released and exchanged for another player from either
the LHA House program or the other Travel team in the division. The deadline for player exchanges
shall be November 14.
b. Travel team player selection and play shall be competitive. Each player’s position on the team and
his/her participation in games shall be at the sole discretion of the head coach.
c. Players lost completely to the LHA House program after November 14 may be replaced with other
Livonia players subject to Section C, with approval of the Travel Director and the majority of the
Board of Directors.
d. Lancer Teams: Travel Directors shall discuss with Lancer head coaches the tryout rules and roster
expectations. The Lancer head coach shall be responsible for abiding by these rules. Failure to comply
with these rules may result in the folding of the team.
3. Player Exchanges
The following procedures shall apply to movement of players between LHA Travel and LHA House program
teams or between two (2) LHA Travel teams.
a. When a LHA Travel team's head coach would like to observe a LHA House program player for
addition to his/her team, the head coach must first contact the Travel Director.
b. The Travel Director shall in turn contact the Division Director in which the player currently
participates.
c. The parent or legal guardian and head coach of the prospective player shall then be notified of the
tryout by the Division Director. Then with the parent(s) or guardian(s) consent, the player shall then
be invited to participate with the Travel team.
44. Special Rules
a. Knights teams (excluding all Women/Girls teams) shall not play games against LHA House program
teams.
b. The head coach must retain a copy of the official scoring record for every game played either league
or exhibition. The head coach must provide the Travel Director with a copy of each scoring record
upon request.
c. Travel team players and officials must abide and shall be governed by all other applicable sections of
the LHA Bylaws.
d. Travel teams shall carry a minimum of fourteen (14) players.
e. Travel teams shall be named the "Livonia Knights" or "Livonia Lancers", except with approval by
the Board of Directors.
f. All Travel teams and officials shall abide by the rules and regulations of the league of which they are
a member.
g. All Travel teams shall use the approved LHA logos. All Travel teams shall only use approved LHA
licensed vendors when ordering apparel.
h. Travel Deposit: Travel teams are permitted to collect a deposit at the conclusion of tryouts. The
purpose of the Travel Deposit shall be to:
i. Secure a commitment from the player to play for the Travel team; and
ii. Establish team funds to pay for items such as ice, training(s) and tournaments.
i. The following conditions apply to all Travel teams collecting a Travel Deposit:
i. All players shall be required to pay the Travel Deposit;
ii. The Travel Deposit shall be collected no later than seven (7) days after the conclusion of
the Travel team’s final tryout. With the written approval of the Travel Director, the Travel
Deposit may be prorated for players joining the Travel team more than twenty-one (21)
days after the Travel team’s final tryout;
iii. The Travel Deposit shall not exceed the sum of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00),
unless otherwise prorated in accordance with the LHA Bylaws; and
iv. All Travel Deposits are non-refundable.
ARTICLE IV – PLAYER SELECTION
SECTION A – LHA House Program Draft
1. The House program draft shall be conducted in accordance with the LHA House Program Draft Manual,
LHA Bylaws - Attachment 4, herein incorporated by reference.
2. The Initiation program draft shall be conducted in accordance with the LHA Initiation Program Draft
Manual, LHA Bylaws - Attachment 5, herein incorporated by reference.
5SECTION B – Replacement Players
1. All new players shall be assigned to a team at the Division Director's discretion subject to any applicable
MAHA rules and regulations.
2. Upon MAHA registration, any new player assigned by the Division Director to a team may begin league
play immediately at the discretion of the head coach, subject to any applicable MAHA rules and
regulations.
3. Regardless of ability, a replacement player shall be required to partake fully in league play after
participation in two (2) practice sessions.
ARTICLE V – UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT
SECTION A – Uniforms
1. Travel Program
All players in the Travel program must maintain two (2) jerseys and two (2) sets of socks (home and away).
The LHA shall be reimbursed for the costs of both jerseys and both sets of socks. Players shall keep both
jerseys and socks.
2. House Program
a. All players in the House program shall maintain a jersey and one (1) set of socks. The LHA shall be
reimbursed for the costs of the jersey and socks. Players shall keep the jersey and socks.
b. 8U through 16U/18U teams, as required, may purchase an additional home or away jersey. This
purchase shall require team approval as described in Article IX, Section B.9. These “additional”
jerseys must be purchased through the LHA in the approved LHA style.
3. Jersey Numbers
a. The team shall be responsible for assigning jersey numbers for each player and furnishing the
information to the LHA by a date established by the Board of Directors each season.
b. Jersey numbers assigned to each team player may not be changed during the season without the
Division Directors approval.
SECTION B – Goalie Equipment
The LHA shall make suitable goalie equipment available to the Initiation Program and 8U Division teams for
on ice use.
SECTION C – Protective Equipment
Each player shall be required to wear protective equipment for all games and practices as outlined by USA
Hockey. Additionally, all LHA players, House and Travel, shall be required to wear neck guards and approved
USA Hockey mouth guards at all games and practices.
6SECTION D – Responsibilities and Restrictions
1. The parent or legal guardian shall be responsible for maintenance of uniforms by carefully washing and
mending.
2. An equipment deposit, the amount to be decided by the Board of Directors, may be collected by the LHA
for the equipment issued to each team.
3. Players who receive LHA issued equipment are responsible for returning the equipment to the head coach
in the same condition as received at the conclusion of the season. Any player who violates this rule may
be subject to replacement costs of equipment.
4. It shall be the head coach’s responsibility to return LHA issued equipment at the conclusion of the season
in the same condition as received for full refund of equipment deposit.
5. Any player not fulfilling the protective equipment clause in Section C shall not be allowed to participate
in any practice, game or scrimmage. It shall be the head coach’s responsibility to check players for
protective equipment at all team functions.
6. In games between LHA teams where there is a color conflict, the convener may waive the requirement
that LHA issued jerseys be worn.
ARTICLE VI – ICE TIME ALLOCATION
1. It shall be the responsibility of the scheduler to allocate and assign all ice time for all LHA teams,
consistent with established policy and hours available for the current season. Payment for all ice time shall
be the assigned team's responsibility.
2. While the LHA strives to provide equal ice time in the House program, if a player misses an excessive
amount of practices or games, the head coach may, with the approval of the Division Director, notify the
player and player’s parent or legal guardian of a reduction in ice time allocation. In order to obtain the
approval of the Division Director, the head coach must conclusively demonstrate player attendance
through the use of a written attendance system.
ARTICLE VII – SYSTEM OF GAME PLAY – LHA HOUSE PROGRAM
Games shall be played according to current USA Hockey and MAHA rules except where modified by LHA
rules and regulations established within the LHA Bylaws. This section applies to the 8U through 14U
Divisions.
SECTION A – Goalie Playing Time [10U, 12U, 14U Divisions]
1. A declared goalie is a player that has been designated as a goalie by the player’s parent or legal guardian
before being placed on a roster. A declared goalie is a full-time goalie until completion of six (6) league
games. Thereafter, the status of the declared goalie is determined at the discretion of the team’s head
coach and approved by the Division Director.
2. When two (2) declared goalies are drafted on a team, at the discretion of the team's head coach, goalies
may either alternate from game to game or share equal time during a game. The head coach may reduce
ice time allocation in accordance with Article VI, Rule 2.
7SECTION B – 8U Division Rules
1. The 8U Division shall comply with MAHA's most current and applicable rules related to 8U hockey.
2. The LHA supports the American Development Model (ADM) as developed and governed by USA
Hockey.
SECTION C – LHA League 10U and 12U Division Rules
1. Units for Game Purposes
10U and 12U Division teams are to consist of sixteen (16) players with one (1) or two (2) being declared
goalies for league games. The players shall be divided to form three (3) separate playing units of five (5)
players per unit. These units may be rearranged before each league game by the head coach. Exceptions to the
number of players must be approved by the Board of Directors.
2. Unit of Playing Time
a. The intent is to have each player receive equal ice time in approximate one (1) minute shifts, subject
to Article VI.
b. With the intent to have one (1) minute shifts, each unit shall receive a minimum of fifty (50) seconds
of playing time when using stop time before any unit change may be considered. The playing time
shall start with the dropping of the puck to commence play or, if changes are completed during play
(on the fly), the playing time shall start when the convener states that the unit change was completed.
This time is to be controlled by each coach or manager and supervised by the convener or delegate to
ensure equal ice time for all players.
c. Each unit must appear within each approximate six (6) minute time interval, but not necessarily in the
order that they started. For the 10U and 12U Divisions, each coach shall present a roster designating
his/her three (3) playing lines (A-B-C) prior to commencement of the game. The lines shall appear in
that order for at least two (2) cycles. Thereafter, the order of appearance may be modified by notifying
the convener. The new order may not be modified until completion of one (1) complete cycle.
d. If a team does not make a unit change within a reasonable time after the elapse of the one (1) minute
shift time, or an incorrect player is on the ice, the convener may disallow any goal scored by that team
in the period of the unit change violation.
3. Goalie Substitution
When a goalkeeper leaves the goal area and proceeds to the player’s bench for the purpose of substitution,
any player on the bench may be used following the rules for substitution. If the goalkeeper is called to the
player’s bench multiple times in a game, no player shall substitute more than one (1) time during the game,
unless all players have substituted one (1) time. This does not include a delayed penalty. Failure to comply
may result in the convener disallowing a goal.
4. Absent Players
If team players are absent, two (2) complete units must appear on the game roster and players from these two
(2) units substitute to fill vacancies on the remaining unit. No player may fill a vacancy more than once per
game, until all the players present for the game have been used as a substitute for the absent or injured player
or players. On the substitution line the non-substitute players must appear on the ice before substitutes.
a. If three (3) or more skaters are absent, two (2) playing units shall be used following these matrices:
i. With twelve (12) skaters, there will be two (2), six (6) player units, and the players shall rotate
through, ensuring equal ice time. The matrix will reset after twelve (12) shifts, so with an average
8of twenty-four (24) shifts per game, the matrix will be run through twice in a single game. Each
column below represents the six (6) player units.
Line 1 Shift
#1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6
1 2 3 4 5 6
2 3 4 5 6 1
3 4 5 6 1 2
4 5 6 1 2 3
5 6 1 2 3 4
Shift
Line 2
#1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6
7 8 9 10 11 12
8 9 10 11 12 7
9 10 11 12 7 8
10 11 12 7 8 9
11 12 7 8 9 10
ii. With eleven (11) skaters, the eleventh player shall rotate through both lines, and the matrix shall
reset after twenty-two (22) shifts, ensuring equal ice time for all players. Each column below
represents the player units.
Line 1 Shift
#1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #10 #11
1 11 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
2 2 11 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
3 3 3 11 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
4 4 4 4 11 4 4 4 4 4 4
5 5 5 5 5 11 5 5 5 5 5
Line 2 Shift
#1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #10 #11
6 6 6 6 6 6 11 6 6 6 6
7 7 7 7 7 7 7 11 7 7 7
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 11 8 8
9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 11 9
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 11
5. Player Injury
a. A player injured in a game may be replaced by any player until that unit's time rule has been satisfied.
The convener shall immediately be notified of this change. If any additional injuries occur another
player must be used as a substitute until all players are used.
b. If it is necessary for a player to leave the game, the convener shall be notified. If the injured player is
a member of a complete unit, he/she shall be replaced by a player from the substitution line. If no
substitution line exists, the injured player's line becomes the substitution line and Section C.4 of this
article shall then apply.
96. Penalties
a. If a penalty is called and the unit on the ice has satisfied the unit playing time, the coach must change
units.
b. If the time rule has not been satisfied, the unit shall remain on the ice until the time rule is satisfied.
c. The player serving the penalty may not return to the ice until his/her unit returns or as a substitute.
d. No player shall miss his/her shift on the ice more than once in each game because of penalties incurred
by another player until all five (5) players on a given line have missed a shift.
e. If a player incurs a game misconduct penalty, he shall be replaced permanently. If the player is a
member of a complete unit, a player from the substitution line shall replace him. If no substitution
line exists, the penalized player's line becomes the substitution line and Section C.4 of this article
shall then apply.
SECTION D – Non-LHA League 10U and 12U Division Rules
1. Equal Ice
Each rostered player shall be assured a minimum of nine (9) shifts per game. Total play time should be no
less than eight (8) minutes of the available time per game. Compliance shall be the responsibility of the team’s
head coach.
2. Conveners
No Director convener shall preside over 10U and 12U Division games. It shall be the responsibility of the
home team to provide a timekeeper and an official scorer.
SECTION E – 14U Division Rules
1. Equal Ice
Each rostered player shall be assured a minimum of twenty-five percent (25%) play time of the available time
per game. Compliance shall be the responsibility of the team’s head coach.
2. Conveners
No Director convener shall preside over 14U Division games. It shall be the responsibility of the home team
to provide a timekeeper and an official scorer.
ARTICLE VIII – GAME REGULATIONS
SECTION A – Period Length and Penalty Time
The length of the periods and penalty times for games in each division shall be determined on a yearly basis,
but shall not be less than the minimum standard established by USA Hockey, MAHA or the non-LHA League
of which the team is a member for any given age division.
10SECTION B – Official Scoring Record
1. An official scoring record shall be used for each game in all divisions. Prior to the start of the game, the
scoring record must be properly completed by designating location, date, time, division, team names,
denoting all player's names and jersey numbers. The head coach from each team must be designated by
signing the scoring record.
2. Any coach and/or manager of each team is required to complete the roster section of the official scoring
record and submit this to the official scorer before each game. The home team shall initiate completion of
the official scoring record.
3. Absent players must be designated. Any player that becomes injured during a pregame warm up and will
not participate in the game shall be designated as absent.
4. The official scoring record shall become a permanent league record and must be signed by an official
scorer and the referee immediately after each game.
5. The head coach must retain a copy of the official scoring record for every game played. The head coach
shall provide the Division Director with a copy of each scoring record upon request.
6. When a match or game misconduct penalty have been assessed, the referee must provide a complete
written and signed report on the scoring record. The head coach shall submit a copy of the scoring record
to the Division Director.
SECTION C – Prompt Starting and Completion Time
If the ice surface is playable and rink facilities are available, all teams must be ready to start at least ten (10)
minutes prior to the scheduled game time. Irrespective of starting time, games should finish within the allotted
time for the division. The convener of each division shall be responsible for assuring that minor officials are
present. Failure to fulfill any of the aforementioned can result in forfeiture based upon the convener’s decision.
SECTION D – Minor Officials
1. Conveners who are Directors shall have full authority over all minor officials and the conduct of all
players, coaches, and managers while within the confines of the rink during the period for which they are
responsible.
2. All conveners shall not question decisions of referees nor interfere with the prevailing rules of hockey
during the course of any game.
3. The official scorer shall keep an accurate record of the game.
4. Timekeepers and/or conveners shall keep game time and control of the penalty box.
SECTION E – Penalties
1. A match penalty incurred by any registered LHA player or coach shall result in the suspension of said
player or coach from further practice or game play until such time as the Grievance Committee has
reviewed the incident and taken such action as is appropriate. The head coach must report match penalties
to the Division Director. The Division Director shall report to the Grievance Committee and MAHA
District Council Chairperson within twenty-four (24) hours of occurrence.
112. Any head coach or assistant receiving two (2) game misconducts shall be suspended until a meeting with
the Division Director and the Grievance Committee. Disciplinary action shall be at the discretion of the
Division Director and the Grievance Committee.
SECTION F – Protests
1. No protests regarding a referee’s judgment will be permitted.
2. Protests must be in writing, prepared by the head coach of the protesting team and submitted to the
Division Director within forty-eight (48) hours from the conclusion of the game being protested. A
twenty-five dollar ($25.00) fee, refundable if the protest is upheld, must accompany all protests.
3. The Division Director must rule on each protest and advise both teams and the LHA President of his/her
decision within forty-eight (48) hours after receipt of the protest.
4. Decisions of the Division Director may be appealed in writing to the Chairman of the Grievance
Committee within forty-eight (48) hours of the announcement of the Division Director's decision.
SECTION G – Eligibility Disputes
In case of disputes regarding LHA player eligibility ruling at game time, the decision of the Director or
convener shall prevail until referred to the Board of Directors for action.
SECTION H – LHA League Standings
1. All league standings shall be based upon USA Hockey criteria.
2. Tie Breaker procedures to be used in determining placement standings.
a. If two (2) teams have an equal number of points in the standings the following criteria applied in
order, shall be used to determine standing position:
i. The points acquired in only the games played between the two (2) teams.
ii. The highest goals for and against differential, based on a maximum of five (5) goals per game
differential, (GF-GA) in only the games played between the two (2) teams.
iii. The greatest quotient of goals scored and goals scored against, based on a maximum of five (5)
goals per game differential, (GF/GA) in only games played between the two (2) teams. Example:
Scores of 7 to 1 and 2 to 3 means a GF/GA of (7 – 1 + 2) / (1 + 3) = 2.00
iv. The highest goals for and against differential, based on a maximum of five (5) goals per game
differential, (GF-GA) in all games played by each team.
12b. If the above procedure does not break the tie, the teams shall use a shoot out procedure as follows:
i. Each team selects five (5) players who shall alternate taking penalty shots. A coin toss shall
determine which team shall take the first shot.
ii. If after five (5) shots from both teams, the tie has not been broken, it is repeated with five (5)
different players, until the standings are determined. No player shall repeat until the team with
the lower team members present exhausts all available shooters. At that point, both teams may
initiate players shooting for the second time. This process shall repeat until a winner is
determined.
Note: An equal number of games played are presumed for a. and b. above. If an unequal number of games
have been played, the most recent games played shall be eliminated until an equal number of games are
present.
c. If three (3) or more teams have an equal number of points, their position in the standings shall be
determined by the following tie breaker criteria in order. If one (1) tie breaker establishes a position
for one (1) or more teams, that team(s) is (are) placed in the applicable position. Once a team is placed,
the remaining tied teams shall start the tie breaker process over with the following criteria again in
order.
i. The points acquired in only the games played between the tied teams.
ii. The highest goals for and against differential, based on a maximum of five (5) goals per game
differential, (GF-GA) in all games played by each team.
iii. The greatest quotient of goals scored and goals scored against, based on a maximum of five (5)
goals per game differential, (GF/GA) in all games played by each team.
iv. The highest goals for and against differential, based on a maximum of five (5) goals per game
differential, (GF-GA) in all games played by each team.
v. Least amount of penalty minutes in all games played for each of the tied teams.
SECTION I – LHA House Program Playoff Games – Tie Breakers
1. The following tie breaker format shall be used for the semi-final and championship games for Hockey
Day.
a. If a game is tied at the end of regulation time, up to two (2) six (6) minute sudden-death overtime
periods shall be played. For the 10U and 12U Divisions, the player lineup rotation and substituting of
players shall carryover and continue into the overtime period.
b. If still tied after the overtime periods, a five (5) skater shoot out shall take place.
c. If the tie is still not broken, a second five (5) skater shoot out shall take place. Teams may not use any
of the five (5) skaters from the first five (5) skater shoot out.
d. If the score is still tied, a sudden-death shoot out, one (1) skater per team at a time shall take place.
All skaters are eligible for selection for this final tie breaker.
e. The coach shall provide the convener a list, in order, of the ten (10) skaters that shall be used for the
shoot out prior to the start of the overtime period.
2. There shall be no overtime or tie breaker for the consolation game.
3. Division Directors shall have authority to resolve any issues or disputes that may arise.
13SECTION J – MAHA District Playdown Representative
The MAHA District Playdown Representative for each division shall be determined in accordance with a
formula or procedure determined prior to the season's commencement by the Division Directors and approved
by the Board of Directors. The formula or procedure established shall include tie breaker procedures and be
posted at Eddie Edgar Ice Arena.
SECTION K – Forfeits
Any game that is declared forfeited by a team shall result in the recording of a score of 1-0.
ARTICLE IX – PLAYER CONDUCT AND REGULATIONS
SECTION A – Conduct
1. All players within the LHA program shall conduct themselves in a proper manner and shall be responsible
for their behavior to the coaches, managers, game officials and LHA during the hockey season.
2. Should a player exhibit inappropriate conduct, the Director or referee may immediately remove him/her
from that game and suspend the player from the following league game. Inappropriate conduct includes
but is not limited to:
o Verbal or physical abuse of a game official, coach, manager, player or Director
o Becoming the third party in an altercation
o Fighting off ice in locker rooms or arena property
o Use of profane language
o Cause property damage
o Sexual harassment
The Director or referee may immediately remove him/her from that game and suspend the player from
the following league game.
3. If a player uses his/her stick or other equipment as a weapon, the Director or referee may immediately
remove that LHA player from that game and suspend him/her from the next two (2) league games. The
player shall appear before the Grievance Committee.
4. Consumption and/or use of alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, illegal drugs, any tobacco products
and/or vaping within the confines of the rink or at any practice, game or team function by a player shall
result in suspension of such player from all team activities. A player suspended under this subsection and
shall appear before the Grievance Committee for a disciplinary hearing. The head coach must notify the
Division Director of any violation of this subsection within twenty-four (24) hours of occurrence.
SECTION B – Player/Team Financial Obligations
1. All parents or legal guardians must complete the Parent Team Cost Obligation Agreement Form. See LHA
Bylaws - Attachment 1.
2. Players are obligated to pay monthly ice bills to the team as designated by the head coach and manager.
All payments shall be processed by the LHA office. Postdated checks are not a valid form of payment.
143. Any checks returned for insufficient funds shall be subject to all additional bank charges, which must be
paid along with the overdue balance.
4. For House program Divisions, the monthly ice bills shall not exceed the LHA designated budget amount.
Monthly ice bills (House program teams: September through February, Travel teams (typically): August
through February) are due on the 15th of each month. Ice bills are still due even if a player sustains an
injury. Players who are medically ineligible to play for four consecutive weeks may solicit the team for
a vote of ice bill waiver or proration.
5. If a player fails to pay any delinquent ice bill by the 20th day of the month, the player shall be immediately
suspended until their ice bill is brought current with no past due balance. If the 20th day of the month
occurs on a weekend, the delinquent ice bill shall be due Monday morning by 9:00 am. If the 20th day of
the month occurs on a noted Holiday where the arena is closed, the delinquent ice bill shall be due the
next business morning by 9:00 am.
6. A suspended player shall not participate in any team functions, including but not limited to games,
tournaments, off ice training, parties and fundraisers, without a receipt from the LHA office (or arena staff
after hours) indicating payment of all delinquent amounts.
7. If the balance is not brought current within thirty (30) days of suspension, the player shall be removed
from the team roster and the LHA may initiate collection activities.
8. If a player withdraws on or before the 15th of the month, they shall be responsible for one-half (½) of the
monthly bill. If they withdraw after the 15th of the month, they shall be responsible for the entire month’s
bill.
9. For any purchase using team funds that exceeds four hundred dollars ($400.00), the purchase shall require
two-thirds (2/3) acceptance of the entire team (one (1) vote per player), by secret ballot. Any ballots not
turned in shall be considered a ‘no’ vote. The head coach or manager must submit the voting ballets and
results to the LHA office.
10. All team votes shall require two-thirds (2/3) acceptance of the entire team (one (1) vote per player), by
secret ballot. Any ballots not turned in shall be considered a ‘no’ vote. The head coach or manager must
submit the voting ballets and results to the LHA office.
ARTICLE X – SYSTEM OF PLAY – NON-LHA LEAGUE GAMES
SECTION A – Non-LHA League Membership
Teams and players shall abide by all the rules and regulations of the non-LHA league of which they are a
member.
SECTION B – Special Rules
Team players and officials must abide by, and shall be governed by, all other applicable sections of the LHA
Bylaws. This shall include, but not limited to, Article VII pertaining to equal ice time in the House program
Divisions.
ARTICLE XI – DIRECTORS OF CLASSIFICATIONS
SECTION A – Authority
Directors shall have full authority over the administration of their respective divisions or classifications.
15SECTION B – Attendance Policy
As outlined in ARTICLE VII, Section 3.A, of the LHA Constitution, if a Director anticipates being absent
from a Board meeting, the individual shall contact the President of the Board of Directors as to the reason.
Any Director absent without reasonable cause for a total of four (4) meetings for their term, or within a twelve
(12) month period shall be deemed to have resigned, and the position declared vacant. Attendance at a Board
meeting is: Directors must participate for more than one-half (1/2) of the total anticipated meeting time to be
declared present.
ARTICLE XII – CONVENERS
SECTION A – Appointment
The Division Directors shall appoint their own conveners for the LHA League and Travel teams. Whenever
possible, a convener should be a member of the Board of Directors.
SECTION B – Authority
1. The convener, if a Director, shall have authority over all minor officials, coaches, managers, and players.
2. All conveners shall not question decisions of referees nor interfere with the prevailing rules of hockey
during the course of any game.
3. If a team has no coach or manager present for a scheduled game, or if there is no referee present, the
convener shall declare no contest.
ARTICLE XIII – COACHES AND MANAGERS
SECTION A – Appointments
1. The Board of Directors shall appoint head coaches for the LHA League.
2. The Board of Directors shall receive applications for Travel (including Women/Girls only teams) head
coaches, for the following season, up until a date established by the Board of Directors. Travel head
coaches will be selected by the Board of Directors either at the January board meeting, a special meeting
or when a qualified applicant is approved by the Board of Directors. Dates noted for Travel head coaches
selection may be modified as deemed necessary by the Board of Directors.
3. The Board of Directors shall receive applications for House program head coaches, for the following
season, up until a date established by the Board of Directors. House program head coaches will be selected
by the Board of Directors either at the July board meeting, a special meeting or when a qualified applicant
is approved by the Board of Directors. Dates noted for House program head coaches selection may be
modified as deemed necessary by the Board of Directors.
4. The LHA reserves the right, through the Division Directors, in their sole discretion, to approve or withhold
approval of all proposed MAHA rostered persons. Any such determination may be appealed to the full
Board of Directors.
5. A head coach’s relative or significant other shall not be allowed to serve as manager of that head coach’s
LHA House and/or Travel team.
166. The team manager shall be rostered and signatory on the team bank account. No individual shall manage
more than one House and/or Travel team. The team manager must be connected to the team by having a
related player on said team.
7. If there is a shortage of coaches and/or qualified head coaches, the Board of Directors may recruit a coach
that is registered with MAHA or USA Hockey as a head coach of another team.
SECTION B – Removal and Resignation
1. A coach, manager, or rostered team official may be removed and relieved of their duties or subject to
discipline by the Board of Directors for any of the following:
a. Violation of the LHA Bylaws
b. Conduct detrimental and injurious to the LHA
c. Accepting a head coaching position at a competing hockey association
d. Any other event or action which, in the discretion of the Board of Directors, warrants removal
2. Any coach, manager or rostered team official who resigns their respective position, such resignation shall
be treated as occurring immediately. and be immediately removed and relieved of their position.
SECTION C – LHA Bylaws, MAHA and USA Hockey Rules
1. All Directors, coaches and managers must familiarize themselves with, and abide by, all the rules and
regulations of the LHA Bylaws, MAHA and USA Hockey Rules.
2. All conveners must familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations of the LHA Bylaws.
SECTION D – Team Conduct
The head coach shall be responsible for the discipline and behavior of their team before, during and a
reasonable time after the game, including locker room clean up.
SECTION E – Resurfacing
The head coach shall be responsible to ensure that no player is allowed on the ice at the same time as the
Zamboni Ice Cleaning Machine. The Zamboni doors must be closed before players or coaches may step on
the ice surface. The first violation shall result in a warning being issued to the head coach. Any subsequent
violation shall result in the offending individual being suspended for the next league game.
SECTION F – Equal Ice Time
Every player in the LHA House program from 8U to 14U, regardless of ability, shall be given equal ice time
during league games, subject to Article VI. The rules for each division are outlined in Article VII. A coach
shall be subject to discipline, as outlined in Article XIII, Section K for failure to comply with this rule.
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