CGSA Policies and Procedures


CGSA Policy and Procedures ( Code of Conduct) 

Bullying Policy 

STATEMENT OF INTENT 

The Community Grassroots Soccer Association (CGSA) is committed to providing a caring, friendly, and  safe environment for all our members so they can participate in soccer in a relaxed and secure  atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all children and  parents should be able to openly communicate the situation and know that all incidents will be dealt  with promptly and effectively. At CGSA we have an Open Door policy - this means that anyone who  knows that bullying is suspected or happening is expected to notify CGSA immediately. 

OBJECTIVES OF THIS POLICY 

  • Bullying will not be tolerated. 
  • All players, coaches and managers and parents of CGSA should understand what bullying is.
    All managers and coaching staff should know what the policy is on bullying and follow it when  bullying is reported. 
  • All players should know what the policy is on bullying and what they should do if bullying occurs  or is suspected. 
  • We take bullying seriously. Players and parents should be assured that they will be supported  when bullying is reported. 

WHAT IS BULLYING? 

Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. Bullying results in  pain and distress to the victim. Bullying consists of three basic types of abuse - emotional, verbal, and physical Bullying can be and does include but is not limited to: 

  • Verbal bullying including derogatory comments, lies, false rumors, teasing, ridicule, and bad names.
    Emotional bullying includes being unfriendly, sending hurtful or tormenting messages via social  media forms. 
  • Bullying through social exclusion or isolation, being ignored and or left out 
  • Physical bullying includes pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any other use of violence
    Being attacked because of their religion, race or color, gender or sexuality including but not  limited to taunts, graffiti, gestures etc... 
  • Sexually unwanted physical contact or sexually abusive comments 
  • Misuse of associated technology such as unwanted camera and video usage and social  networking exposure 

SIGNS AND INDICATORS 

A player may indicate he or she is being bullied by signs or behavior, adults should be aware of these possible signs and should investigate if a player: 

  • Says they are being bullied 
  • Is afraid or unwilling to go to training, practice, or games 
  • Becomes withdrawn anxious, or lacking in confidence 
  • Feels ill before training sessions 
  • Is nervous and /or jumpy when a message is received (e.g., text, IM, phone, social network)
    Comes home with clothes torn or training equipment damaged 
  • Asks for money or starts stealing money (to pay the bully) 
  • Has unexplained cuts or bruises 
  • Is frightened to say what’s wrong 
  • Gives improbable excuses for any of the above 

In some more severe situations, other indicators can include: 

  • Cry them-selves to sleep at night or has nightmares 
  • Becomes aggressive, disruptive, or unreasonable 
  • Is bullying other children or siblings 
  • Stops eating 
  • Attempts suicide, runs away, or hurts themselves deliberately (self-harm) 

These signs and behaviors may indicate other problems, but bullying should be considered a possibility  and should be investigated. 

AS A COACH OR MANAGER WHAT CAN YOU DO IF YOU THINK YOUR PLAYER IS BEING BULLIED?

Ask the player directly 

  • Take any incidents of bullying that they tell you about seriously 
  • Talk calmly with the player about their experiences 
  • Make note of what the player says 
  • Reassure the player that they have done the right thing by telling you 
  • Understand that your player may need to change aspects of their behavior 
  • Never approach another parent directly 
  • Do not encourage your player to retaliate 
  • Contact the CGSA board immediately 

PROCEDURES 

  1. Immediately report the bullying incidents/behavior to the CGSA

CGSA will take every concern seriously, investigate the issue and report back to you in a timely manner 

  1. In serious cases, parents may be asked to come in to discuss the problem. 
  2. If necessary and appropriate, the police will be consulted. 
  3. If bullying is found, it will be stopped immediately by removal of the player (s) who is bullying  from CGSA until a suitable process has been met through association policy. 5. A record will be kept on the incident(s), investigation and any action(s) taken 6. The bully (bullies) will be placed on probationary period with the CGSA of no less than one  season.  

 

CGSA - ASA Air Aware Policy 

Team Procedures 

CGSA teams are to follow the Policy outline in the ASA Air Aware - Air Quality Monitoring Guidelines. ASA Air Aware POLICY 

  1. Go to http://environment.alberta.ca/apps/aqhi/aqhi.aspx (APP also available, see  resources) 
  2. Use the Alberta website. The Environment Canada (federal) website does not list  St. Albert and Strathcona County stations. This is important because Edmonton,  St. Albert, and Strathcona County (Sherwood Park) can have different index  ratings even though they are in proximity. 
  3. Click on the AQHI station name 
  4. This brings up a pop-up box with the AQHI for that station. 3. Note the  station, time, and date, and Index calculation. a. Updates usually occur hourly  (at the top of the hour). 
  5. Use the index calculation that is within one hour of scheduled kick-off or  practice time. c. If the AQHI is “7” or higher then go to steps 4. Games 3. Games  
  6. If the Affiliated Member has not cancelled games in advance all teams and match  officials should arrive ready to play.  
  7. If the AQHI is still above “7” at the next calculation the teams involved and the match  official should consider delaying kick-off or cancelling the game. i. The match official  reserves the final right to cancel the game if the conditions are considered dangerous,  in the match official’s opinion. ii. Referee to write on game sheet reason for  abandonment with the Index calculation, time & date number calculated and AQHI  station used.  
  8. If air quality changes dramatically during a game (e.g. sudden smoke event caused by  wind direction change) referees and team officials are advised to use their discretion.  Record all decisions and relevant information on the game sheet. 
  9. For Practices a. Team officials should consider a rescheduled practice or  postponing practice until a later time.

CGSA - Players Wearing Casts Policy 

This CSA policy document is designed to reduce inconsistencies in rulings over players wearing casts. All  referees are expected to follow these policies in all matches sanctioned by the CSA. Law 4 states that a  player may not use equipment that is dangerous to himself or another player. This is further expanded  

upon in the Interpretations of the Laws of the Game whereby it is advised that players may use  equipment that has the sole purpose of protecting the individual physically providing that it poses no  danger to the individual or any other player. 

Modern protective equipment made of soft, lightweight, padded materials are not considered  dangerous and are therefore permitted. 

Hard casts are considered to pose a danger to both the wearer and other players and are not permitted  to be worn. The practice of padding a hard cast does not reduce the element of danger. 

Players wearing a soft cast will be permitted to play if the cast does not present a danger to the  individual or any other player. 

The referee or Supervisor of Officials (if one has been appointed to the match/tournament) will  make the final decision as to the acceptability of any cast. 

Any player who uses a cast with the intent to intimidate or injure an opponent shall be cautioned or  sent off.

CGSA CRC Policy 

STATEMENT 

The purpose of this policy is to set the guidelines, regulations and procedures for administering  the Criminal Record Check (CRC) for CGSA Volunteers. This policy will outline the process to  obtain a CRC and what the process is once a CRC has been completed. 

GUIDELINES 

1) All individuals performing the duties of Coach, Assistant Coach, or Bench  Parent (in each case a “Team Official”) shall be subject to a CRC that includes  the Vulnerable Sector Check. 

2) All CRC’s for Team Officials shall be conducted using a nationwide search of all city  and state databases, as determined by the local law enforcement authorities. 

3) All information contained in the CRC and provided to the CGSA shall remain  confidential and will only be shared with CGSA to oversee the CRC’s. 

4) All files pertaining to the CRC’s for CGSA Team Officials shall remain on file with the  CGSA for a minimum of 3 years from the time that the CRC was conducted. All files  shall be stored in a secure location under the control of a designated CGSA  Committee 

5) All information received from the CRC shall be reviewed by the designated CGSA  Committee or their designee. 

6) An applicant may be disqualified and prohibited from serving as a Team  Official at the sole discretion of the CGSA Board. 

PROCEDURE 

1) Once report is received from RCMP it is brought into or sent to the  designated CGSA Committee. 

2) The report will either state that the Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) has been  performed and the person is cleared, or it will state that fingerprints are required for clearance. 

(a) If fingerprints were required, the report will be sent directly to the Team  Officials residence (this takes approx. 3 months). The Team Official will  then be required to provide the original report to CGSA. 

CGSA has a policy to deal with Security Clearances (SC) and CPIC’s, as tighter procedures  within the City Police and RCMP have resulted in an increase in the number of security  clearances being deferred. 

The following procedure applies for individuals whose SC applications have been deferred and  they are required to submit their finger prints. In order to be considered to be registered as a team  official, the individual must complete a Statutory Declaration and submit it to their club. The club  then reviews it and decides if they wish to proceed. If they do, then the Club will prepare a Letter  of Responsibility on club letter head signed by an authorized representative. Both documents must  be submitted to CGSA office for consideration. 

For those whose SC application has been deferred, they must continue to complete the finger print  submission process and obtain a valid clearance before they will be eligible to participate as a team  official the following season. CGSA and the club will review all results from the fingerprinting  process. Individuals whose SC/CRC applications have a negative result cannot repeat this process.

Discipline and Appeals Policy 

CGSA Rules and Regulations 

SECTION V - Discipline 

5.1.1 All players, coaches, manager and team supporters are subject to all CGSA Rules and Regulations. Anyone who breaches CGSA’s Rules and Regulations or the spirit of CGSA’s  Rules and Regulations shall be guilty of conduct unbecoming to CGSA. 

5.1.2 Any Team official may submit an Incident Report regarding complaints to the Commissioner Board (this will be a committee of people who are not actively involved in  coaching, reffing, soccer program administration) alleging a breach of the CGSA rules and  regulations or conduct unbecoming. 

5.1.3 Discipline within CGSA shall be dealt with by the Commissioners Board. Unless specified otherwise, all CGSA discipline shall be dealt with by the Commissioner. 

5.1.4 Decisions of the Commissioner’s Board, including the penalty imposed, may be appealed to the Commissioner’s Board. All decisions of the Commissioner’s Board including penalty, may  be appealed to the Alberta Soccer Association, or the Canadian Soccer Association in accordance with the rules and regulations of those organizations. 

5.1.5 The Commissioner’s Board , any member of the Commissioners’ Board, shall recuse themselves from any hearings or decision-making processes involving any  organization(s) they are or has been affiliated with. 

5.1.6 The Commissioner’s Board shall consist of the Commissioner and at least one other members of CGSA that are independent of any involvement in soccer programing.  

5.1.7 The Commissioner’s Board shall present at all discipline hearings to the CGSA  Board. 

5.1.8 All appeals to CGSA shall be filed in writing and served upon CGSA within seven (7) days of the decision of the Commissioner’s Board. All appeals shall be in writing and include: a) A copy of the original decision being appealed from; 

  1. b) The rules applicable to the appeal 
  2. c) The formal ground of the appeal; and 
  3. d) The reasons for the appeal 

5.1.9 All appeals of the decision by Match Officials and complaints regarding acts of misconduct shall be filed in writing and served upon CGSA and the Commissioners Board after forty-eight  (48) hour up to five (5) days: 

  1. a) A copy of the original decision being appealed from or a sworn statement providing a  description of the circumstances complained of; 
  2. b) The rules applicable to the appeal or complaint; 
  3. c) The formal grounds of appeal or complaint; 
  4. d) The reasons for the appeal or complaint; 
  5. e) The identity, address, and contact information of the appellant or complainant; and f) the consent of the appellant or complainant’s Club representative. 

5.1.10 Upon receipt of the valid appeal or complaint, the Commissioner’s Board shall hold an oral  hearing unless the parties have agreed to proceed based on written submissions. The  Commissioner’s Board shall give at least seven (7) days advance notice in writing of the  hearing to: 

  1. a) the appellant or complainant; 
  2. b) the respondent unless the respondent is a referee 

5.1.11 Penalties for breaches of CGSA rules and regulations may be automatic where so specified in these Rules and Regulations or as set out by the Commissioner’s Board after a hearing  following a complaints or appeal. Decisions regarding penalties imposed by the  Commissioner’s Board must be in writing and delivered to the parties involved within ten  (10) days of the hearing. 

5.1.12 CGSA reserves the right to refer to the conduct of any player, coach, manager or team supporter to the Alberta Soccer Association or Canadian Soccer Association for a further  hearing or discipline.

5.1.13 Any player ejected by a referee from an CGSA game, shall immediately leave the field or  building of play. This player shall not return to the field, building or locker room of the game  until at least forty five (45) minutes after the end of the said game. Leaving the field means  being no closer than two hundred and fifty (250) meters from the nearest point of the field or  building. 

5.1.14 Any youth player serving a suspension will be required to sit separate from their team and  may only be in the spectator area. The player may not dress in a team kit and is not allowed in  the technical area or dressing rooms within 45 minutes before and after the scheduled  game(s). All suspended team officials shall not attend an CGSA game in the age category in  which the suspension was issued, within forty-five (45) minutes before and after the  scheduled games. Team official’s suspensions are to be served from the category they  received the suspension in. Players are suspended from all league play until suspensions  served in the registration category. Community Trialists are suspended until they serve the  suspension in the league they received it in and cannot participate in any CGSA league games  until this suspension has been served. 

5.1.15 Where a player, coach, manager or team supporter engages in actions or conduct resulting  the game being abandoned by the referee, the team shall immediately be suspended pending  a hearing before the Commissioner. Their actions will result in the game being recorded as a  default, with three (3) point and five (5) goal being awarded to the opposing team until  Commissioner’s Board official ruling has been received. Any games scheduled between the  suspended date and the hearing date will be rescheduled by CGSA. 

5.1.16 Each Soccer Director in CGSA is responsible to ensure its team official assist all Match  Officials if a supporter or spectator is disrupting the game. The CGSA teams’ coaches are  responsible for the conduct of all team supporters. A team supporter, who is ejected from a  game, shall appear before the Commissioner’s Board accompanied by the coach for a  hearing. 

5.1.17 Referees working in CGSA are responsible to note game violations on game sheets. The  Commissioner’s Board may request a further and more detailed report from the  referee. 

5.1.18 Everyone participating with CGSA is expected to know the CGSA Rules and Regulations. They  must comply with all suspensions whether automatic or after a hearing, and whether they  have been formally notified, or not, by Commissioner’s Board. Ignorance of CGSA’s Code of  Conduct, Rules and Regulations and suspensions ensuing, is not an excuse. 

5.1.19 In accordance with Rule 5.1.12, hearings by the Commissioner’s Board for acts of  misconduct shall be heard following the infraction on a reasonable date set by the  Commissioner’s Board. 

5.1.20 Every person or club submitting an appeal or a complaint is entitled to present  information or evidence at a hearing. 

5.1.21 Every person or club charged with a violation of CGSA’s Rules and Regulations is entitled to  receive all information provided to the Commissioner’s Board before the hearing. 

5.1.22 Every person or club charged with a violation of CGSA’s Rules and Regulations may present  information or evidence of third parties at a hearing. The third parties are entitled to  attend hearings as witnesses or alternatively, present signed, written statements. 

5.1.23 Decisions of the Commissioner’s Board shall be in writing unless there are extenuating or  exigent circumstances. All Officials of the teams involved shall be given a copy of the  decision by the Commissioner’s Board. 

5.1.24 CGSA coaches may lodge a complaint to the Commissioner’s Board based infractions of  CGSA’s Rules and Regulations. Complaints must be filed in writing and served after forty eight (48) hour up to five (5) days 

Dispute Resolution Policy 

1.1 Definitions 

1.1.1 The following term has this meaning in this Policy: 

  1. a) “CGSA” - Community Grassroots Soccer Academy 
  2. b) “Governing Body” - The organization that has the authority to manage a discipline complaint per the  policies of the Governing Body. Governing Body may refer to the Canadian Soccer Association, Alberta  Soccer Association, or CGSA. 
  3. c) “Members” - All Members defined by the CGSA’s Bylaws and for the purposes of this policy shall also include  all individuals associated or affiliated with CGSA , including but not limited to athletes, coaches, officials,  volunteers, managers, committee members, directors, officers, and parents and spectators at CGSA events and  CGSA sanctioned competitions. 

1.2 Purpose 

1.2.1 The CGSA supports the techniques of negotiations, facilitation, and mediation as effective ways to  resolve disputes. Dispute Resolution also avoids uncertainty, costs, and other negative effects associated  with formal complaints, subsequent appeals, or potential litigation. 

1.2.2 The CGSA encourages all Members to communicate openly, collaborate, and use problem-solving  and negotiation techniques to resolve their differences. Negotiated resolutions to solve disputes with  and among Members are encouraged. 

1.2.3 The CGSA is responsible to ensure that their Dispute Resolution Policy is consistent with the policy  of the Alberta Soccer Association. 

1.2.4 In the event that CGSA does not similar processes or policies, the policies of the Alberta Soccer  Association will be deemed adopted and amended accordingly for the application by the CGSA. 

1.3 Application of this Policy 

1.3.1 This Policy applies to all members. 

1.3.2 Opportunities for the Dispute Resolution may be pursued at any point in a dispute (prior to any decision  of an Adjudicator/Panel) within the CGSA when all parties to the dispute agree that such a course of action  would be mutually beneficial. 

1.4 Facilitation and Mediation 

1.4.1 CGSA will appoint a Case Manager to oversee the management and administration of this Policy and  such appointment is not appealable.

1.4.2 If all parties to a dispute agree to Dispute Resolution, a mediator or facilitator acceptable to all parties shall be  appointed by the Case Manager to mediate or facilitate the dispute. Costs related to mediation and facilitation (if  any) will be shared equally by the parties, unless determined otherwise by the CGSA. In the event that the parties  cannot agree to the mediator or facilitator, the CGSA will appoint one. 

1.4.3 The mediator or facilitator shall decide the format under which the dispute shall be mediated or  facilitated, and shall specify a deadline before which the parties must reach a negotiated decision. 

1.4.4 Should a negotiated decision be reached, the decision shall be reported to, and approved by the CGSA.  Any actions that are to take place as a result of the decision shall be enacted on the timelines specified by  the negotiated decision, pending the CGSA’s approval. 

1.4.5 Should a negotiated decision not be reached by the deadline specified by the mediator or facilitator at  the start of the process, or if the parties to the dispute do not agree to Dispute Resolution, the dispute shall be  referred back to and resolved by the Formal Complaints Policy. 

1.5 Final and Binding 

1.5.1 Any negotiated decision will be binding on the parties. Negotiated decisions shall not be appealed. 

1.5.2 No action or legal proceeding will be commenced against the CGSA or its Members in respect of a  dispute, unless the CGSA has refused or failed to provide or abide by the dispute resolution processes set out  in it’s bylaws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures. 

CGSA Emergency Action Plan 

Guidelines 

Although serious injuries or accidents are rare, you must be ready to deal with them when they occur. 

The coaching staff for all teams is responsible for implementing an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). This will ensure  that there is an established procedure in place should any serious incidents occur. 

Although not mandatory, formal training in first aid and CPR for team staff will give you the confidence and  knowledge you need to deal with emergencies effectively. It is recommended that any trained individuals are  clearly identified in the EAP 

You should maintain a First Aid Kit to help you deal with minor injuries. 

Develop an Emergency Action Plan and write it down so everyone involved is clear on their responsibilities.  Designate key individuals to carry out the plan (i.e. the person in charge, and the call person). 

Person in Charge 

The person in charge should be the one who is most qualified in first aid and emergency procedures. This individual  will: 

  • Know what emergency equipment is available at your facility 
  • Secure a controlled and calm environment 
  • Assess - and tend to - the injured player 
  • Direct others involved until medical personnel arrive 

Call Person 

This individual will: 

  • Keep a record of emergency phone numbers and know the location of telephones in the facility Make the telephone call for assistance 
  • Guide the ambulance (if required) in and out the facility 

Emergency Action Plan (EAP) Checklist 

Access to Phones: 

Make sure that someone on the coaching staff has a charged cell phone available at the field or facility.

_____ Cell phone, battery well charged

_____ Training venues 

_____ Home venues 

_____ Away venues 

_____ List of emergency phone numbers 

_____ Change available for pay phones 

Directions to access the site: 

One of the coaching staff / team officials should be designated as the person in charge and be prepared to  give emergency responders directions to their location, including the address. The CGSA recommends that  each team prepares a document at the start of each season, that lists all training and game locations and  keep this document with their EAP kit. 

_____ Accurate directions to the sites (practices, games, 

both home and away) 

Participant Information: 

A medical form that includes players medical history, past injuries, known medical conditions, allergies, and  emergency contact information should always be on hand. (See player information form below) 

_____ Personal profile forms  

_____ Emergency contacts  

_____ Medical profiles 

  • The medical profile of each participant should be up to date and located in the first aid kit. 

    Personnel Information: 

A specific person should be designated as “Person in Charge” and “Call Person”. Alternates should be appointed as  well. The Person in Charge should be the one that is most qualified in first aid and emergency procedures. This  individual will know what emergency equipment is available at the specific facility and secure a controlled and calm  environment. 

_____ The person in charge is identified 

_____ The call person is identified 

_____ Assistants and alternates are identified 

  • A first aid kit must always be accessible and must be checked regularly. Suggestions for First Aid kits  contents are as follows: First aid manual; different sized sterile gauze pads; adhesive tape; band-aids in  several sizes; elastic bandage; antiseptic wipes; antibiotic ointment; tweezers; scissors, disposable instant  cold packs; alcohol wipes; plastic non-latex gloves; calamine lotion; splint; thermometer. 

Emergency Action Plan Template 

EAP for (facility name or event): 

Person in Charge:__________ 

Call Person: 

Emergency Scenarios: 

Plan for injury:_____ 

Plan for missing child: 

Plan for severe weather: 

Plan for evacuation of facility: 

Attach list of Facility Details, include address and directions to facility, phone numbers of  facilities. Emergency Contacts (Address and Phone Numbers): 

Edmonton RCMP (non-emergency): 11140 109 St, Edmonton, AB P: 780.423.4567

Regional Hospitals: 

Royal Alexandra Hospital: 10240 Kingsway Avenue NW, Edmonton Phone: 780.735.4111 Grey Nuns Community Hospital: 1100 Youville Drive NW, Edmonton Phone: 780.735.7000 Misericordia Community Hospital: 16940 - 87 Avenue, Edmonton Phone: 780.735.2000 University of Alberta Hospital: 8440 - 112 Street, Edmonton Phone 780.407.8822 Northeast Community Health Centre: 14007 - 50 Street, Edmonton Phone: 780.472.5000 Sturgeon Community Hospital: 201 Boudreau Road, St Albert Phone: 780.418.8200 Fort Saskatchewan Community Hospital: 9401 - 86 Avenue Fort Saskatchewan Phone: 780.998.2256 Sherwood Park Hospital: 9000 Emerald Drive, Sherwood Park, AB P: 780.449.5380

Player Information Form 

Player Name: __________________________________________ 

Address: ______________________________________________ 

Player Phone: __________________________________________ 

Date of Birth: _____________________________________

AHC# : _____________________________________

Email: ________________________________________________ 

Health concerns / medical information (ie: allergies, asthmatic etc): _______________

Emergency Contact Information

Primary Contact Name: _______________________ 

Relationship to Player:_________________________

Contact Phone Numbers:________________________ 

Alternate Contact Name: _________________________

Relationship to Player: ____________________

Contact Phone Numbers: ____________________

Equity and Inclusion Policy 

The aim of this policy is to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and with respect and CGSA is equally  accessible and inclusive to all. 

CGSA is responsible for setting standards and values to apply throughout the association at all levels of play. Our  commitment as a community organization and soccer association is to confront and eliminate discrimination  whether by reason of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or  belief, ability or disability and to encourage equal opportunities. 

CGSA, it's officers, officials and members are not to discriminate, or in any way treat anyone less favourably, on  grounds of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability  or disability. CGSA will not tolerate harassment, bullying, abuse or victimization of an individual, which for the  purposes of this policy and the actions and sanction applicable is regarded as discrimination. This includes sexual or  racially based harassment or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal. Any member, official or  officer of the association who believes they have experienced any form of discrimination are asking to complete a  Serious Occurrence Report Form as soon as possible and follow the reporting procedure outlined in the Club's Serious  Occurrence Policy. 

CGSA is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members to abide and adhere to  these policies. 

 

CGSA Fan-Friendly Policy 

CGSA is committed to promoting positive behavior on and off the soccer field through the support of  coaches, parents, players, volunteers and officials. Respect is the communal responsibility of each participant  in soccer to create an environment that is both safe and enjoyable for all who take part. 

CGSA is a strong supporter of making sport safe for our youth. Over the last couple of years, verbal abuse directed  toward referees, players and team officials has been a particular problem. Accordingly, CGSA has established the  Friendly Fan Policy for non-CGSA registrants - anyone not individually registered with the CGSA as either a Player,  Team Official or Administrator (“Registrant”) - to enforce a set of expectations around inappropriate behavior for  

parents, legal guardians and spectators (collectively “Spectators”), including but not limited to offensive, insulting or  abusive language or behavior, sexist or racist remarks, violence and vandalism, in order to ensure the safety and  enjoyment of all. For the purposes of this policy, a spectator is defined as an immediate family member associated  with a game participant, including aunts, uncles, grandparents or children. 

Spectator Fair Play Code of Conduct:

We all have a responsibility to promote high standards of behavior in the game. In particular,  Spectators’ expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude toward: 

-Other players;  

- Referees. 

- Team officials;  

- Spectators 

CGSA wants to ensure soccer can be enjoyed in a safe, positive environment. Remember the game of  soccer provides children the opportunity to develop their technical, physical, tactical and social skills.  Winning isn’t everything. 

Spectators are asked to play their part by observing CGSA’s Fair Play Code of Conduct at all times: 

  1. I will not force my child to participate in sports; 
  2. I will remember that my child plays sport for his or her enjoyment, not for mine; 
  3. I will encourage my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence;
  4. I will teach my child that doing one’s best is as important as winning, so that my child will never feel  defeated by the outcome of a game/event;
  5. I will make my child feel like a winner every time by offering praise for competing fairly and trying hard;
  6.  I will never ridicule or yell at my child for making a mistake or losing a competition; 
  7. I will remember that children learn best by example. I will applaud good plays/performances by both my  child’s team and their opponents;
  8. I will remain outside the field of play and within the designated spectators’ area (where provided);
  9. I will respect the match officials’ decisions and never publicly question the officials’ judgment or honesty;
  10. I will respect and show appreciation for the volunteer coaches who give their time to provide sport  activities for my child; 
  11. I will not interfere at any time with the duties and responsibilities of the coach or manager, including  coaching from the sidelines during games or practices;
  12. I will comply with the rules, policies and procedures of the teams as they apply to me;
  13. I will not act in any manner that is detrimental to the team;
  14. I will support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children’s sporting activities; and
  15. I will never engage in, or tolerate, offensive, insulting, or abusive language or behavior toward any  official, coach, player or Spectator. 

The goal of the Fair Play Code of Conduct operating procedure is to promote a positive, safe and supportive environment for all participants at CGSA’s soccer activities. If a Spectator chooses not to follow the Fair Play Code of Conduct, any, or all, of the following actions may be taken by CGSA and the Spectator may be: - Issued with a verbal warning from game official; 

- Obliged to leave the match venue by game official; 

- Required to meet with the CGSA’s discipline board; 

- Requested by CGSA not to attend future games or practices; and 

- Suspended or have CGSA membership revoked. 

Friendly Fan Policy 

  1. 1st OFFENCE (Written warning): Any Spectator judged by CGSA’s discipline committee to be guilty of  abusive conduct towards anyone in attendance at an CGSA event will be reprimanded in writing. 2. 2nd OFFENCE (Discipline by hearing): Any Spectator judged by CGSA’s discipline committee to be guilty of a  second conviction of abusive conduct towards anyone in attendance at an CGSA event will be required to attend a  hearing with CGSA’s discipline committee to address their behavior. A second offence may result in a Spectator  being suspended from attending future games and practices for a specified period of time as determined by  CGSA’s discipline committee. 
  2. 3rd OFFENCE (Discipline by hearing): Any Spectator, judged by CGSA’s discipline committee to be guilty of a  third conviction of abusive conduct towards anyone in attendance at an CGSA event will be required to attend a  hearing with CGSA’s discipline committee to address their behavior. In the unfortunate circumstance and as a last  resort, for the protection of all participants associated with CGSA’s soccer activities, a third conviction may result in  all playing members of the immediate family in question being de-registered from CGSA for a period of time of  CGSA’s choosing that may be, at CGSA’s discretion, unlimited. 

In extreme cases and/or depending on the nature of the behavior, as determined by CGSA’s discipline  committee, a suspension from attending future games or practices and/or the de-registration process may be  invoked after a first or second offence. 

This policy, as per the CGSA policy, only covers non-playing Spectators which are associated with a game  participant. For incidents not related to the event or involving non-associated spectators CGSA cannot enforce  the Friendly Fan Policy and/or Discipline Policies, however civil action may be sought by the parties involved. 

If the source of the abuse is from a Registrant such as a team official, discipline procedures for the individual(s)  involved will follow the policies for discipline management for CGSA registrants as set out in the CGSA Policies. 

Reporting Abusive Behaviour 

Game Officials 

When a person(s) in attendance, including but not limited to the game official, feels they are being abused, as per  the scope of this policy, by a Spectator, the game official will be allowed to suspend the game. In all cases, the  game official must inform the coaches from both teams that the game has been suspended and file a Special  Incident Report with CGSA, who will process this document in accordance with the rules defined by the CGSA. 

If a Spectator’s behavior results in the game official suspending play, the appropriate coach will provide the  game official with the name of the individual(s) that is identified by the game official and the coach must  advise the individual(s) that the next occurrence of a similar nature will result in an abandonment of the  game. If the individual(s) is not associated with either team, the individual(s) may be warned that local  authorities may be called to deal with the incident. 

Where the situation cannot be rectified the game will be abandoned. However, where the incident has been  resolved and the game continues without any further incident, the game official will inform his/her referee  coordinator that the game was temporarily suspended, including providing a detailed explanation of the  reason for the suspension of play and toward whom the abuse was directed. 

If the source of the abuse is from a Registrant, the game official should conduct himself/herself according  to the policies for discipline management for CGSA registrants as set out in the CGSA Policies. 

In all cases the game official must file a Special Incident Report to CGSA’s office for review. 

Non-Game Officials In the event that an incident of abuse is not recognized by a game official, or occurs in a  non-game situation, for example during a practice session, it is the obligation and duty of the coach and/or  other team officials to report such incident to CGSA’s office. Details such as the day, time and location that the  incident occurred, the parties involved, description of the abusive behavior and to whom the behavior was  directed must be provided in the report. 

A Spectator who feels that they have been the subject of, or witness to, abusive behavior, including but not  limited to a team official such as a coach, may submit a written complaint to CGSA’s discipline committee via  the Executive Director who can be reached at exdir@CGSA.com. Details such as the day, time and location  that the incident occurred, the parties involved, description of the abusive behavior and to whom the  behavior was directed must be provided in the report. 

CGSA HARASSMENT POLICY 

CGSA does not tolerate or condone any degree of harassment by any Member*1 of the CGSA. It is the  responsibility of all CGSA Members to promote and ensure a harassment free sport environment. 

*1Members of the CGSA include (but are not limited to) CGSA Board of Directors and Volunteers, all Club Team  Officials, all Players, all Parents/Guardians/Player Relatives, all Coaches and all Managers (regardless of if they  are on a team roster or not). 

Members shall all be deemed spokespersons of the CGSA league and their respective Club(s). Regardless  of the context, all CGSA Members must not do anything that could harm the reputation of the CGSA league or their respective Club(s) or otherwise bring the game into disrepute. 

MISSION STATEMENT: The CGSA believes in the prevention of harassment and promotes a harassment-free  soccer environment in which all people respect one another and work towards a common goal. 

Harassment can take many forms but generally involves conduct, comment or display in any form, including social media*2, that is insulting, intimidating, humiliating, hurtful, demeaning, belittling, malicious, degrading or would  otherwise cause offence, discomfort or personal humiliation or embarrassment to a person or group of persons.  This includes (but is not limited to) comments of a racial, sexist, sexual*3, homophobic, anti-religious, or threatening  nature. This includes (but is not limited to) negative comments about officiating. This includes (but is not limited to)  dialogue that could 

disparage any Member, any opponent, or anyone generally within the wider soccer community. This includes (but is  not limited to) solicitation of players in contravention of CGSA’s Player Recruitment Policy. This includes (but is not  limited to) Harassment complaints, which are found to be false, frivolous or vexatious, or made in bad faith. 

*2SOCIAL MEDIA refers to freely accessible online tools used to produce, post and interact using text, images, video,  and audio to communicate, share, collaborate, or network. Social media includes blogs, social networks, videos and  photos file sharing, folksonomytagging, podcasting and vodcasting2, wikis and other similar tools. 

The CGSA recognizes and supports its’ Members’ rights to freedom of speech and expression including the use  of *2SOCIAL MEDIA. In this context, however, each Member must remember that playing and competing for  the CGSA is a privilege, not a right. All Members are deemed to represent the CGSA and 

1 A folksonomy is a system of classification derived from the practice and method of collaboratively creating and  managing tags to annotate and categorize content; 

2 a video stored in a digital form, or in a form that uses signals in the form of numbers that can be downloaded from the internet and play on a computer or other device.

are expected to portray themselves, their team(s), the CGSA league, the ASA (Alberta Soccer Association) and  the CSA (Canada Soccer Association) in a positive manner at all times. Any online postings must therefore be  consistent with League Guidelines*4

The CGSA League encourages Members to use the following *4GUIDELINES to ensure proper SOCIAL MEDIA  behavior of all Members: 

? Any online postings must be consistent with the CGSA’S Harassment Policy. 

? league related social media content. 

? The CGSA logo cannot be used without the CGSA Board of Directors approval. 

? All posted content is subject to review. 

? The CGSA encourages its’ Members to use social media but reminds Members that at any time they are  spokespersons of the CGSA. 

*3SEXUAL HARASSMENT refers to unwelcome sexual advances, unwelcome requests for sexual favors or other  unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual Harassment may occur in behaviors by males  toward females or by females toward males, between males, or between females. The behavior does not need to  be intentional for it to be considered Sexual Harassment. 

HARASSMENT POLICY VIOLATIONS/PROCEDURES 

Any violation of the CGSA Harassment Policy is subject to investigation and sanction by the CGSA. The CGSA Harassment Committee reserves the right to determine appropriate sanctions for any violation of this Policy  including but not limited to fines, removal of objectionable social media material, member suspension or member  expulsion. A database of case precedents will be maintained by the CGSA Board of Directors in order to ensure  continuity and even-handed application of sanctions under this Policy. Anonymous complaints will not be accepted. 

Alleged violations under the CGSA Harassment Policy shall be dealt with as follows: 

(1)All CGSA Member have an obligation to promote the plain interpretation as well as the spirit and intent of ALL  CGSA Policies, Rules and Regulations. The primary contact for all alleged Harassment Policy complaints is the  respondent Soccer Director>Commisioner’s Board>CGSA 

(2) The Commissioners Board will open a secure file containing all of the relevant information in respect of a  complaint and meet with the complainant and the respondent 

at a hearing scheduled within 10 days of notice being served. The Commissioners Board will interview the  complainant and the respondent and/or all the individuals who may be able to provide relevant information. If the  investigation reveals evidence to support the complaint of harassment, the harasser will be disciplined  appropriately and at the Committee’s discretion and in accordance with this Policy and precedent case material. If  circumstances warrant, the Committee may refer these matters to the City of Edmonton Police Service, the Alberta  Human Rights Commission or such other body or organization, as they deem appropriate. 

For the purposes of this Policy, threats of retaliation and retaliation by one person against another: 

  • designed to dissuade an individual from reporting discrimination or harassment; 
  • to punish an individual who has rejected sexual advances; 
  • for having invoked this policy (whether on behalf of oneself or another); 
  • for having participated in any investigation under this policy; or 
  • for having been associated with a person who has invoked this policy or participated in these procedures; 
    will be considered a form of Harassment. 

Complaints found to be false, frivolous or made in bad faith will not be tolerated and will be subject to appropriate  disciplinary action by the Commissioner’s Board and CGSA Board. 

In addition to any other findings or sanctions imposed by the Commissioners Board, a finding of Harassment will  be considered conduct likely to bring the game into disrepute under this CGSA Policy. Once the matter has been  resolved, the CGSA Board will retain the file in a secure location (for 5 years) along with all of the other books and  records of the CGSA. No absolute confidentiality may be made by the CGSA, particularly in circumstances where  the matter warrants police or other regulatory or administrative body intervention. 

Notwithstanding this policy, any person who experiences Harassment continues to have the right to seek  assistance from the Alberta Human Rights Commission or to file a complaint with the City of Edmonton Police  Service or such other body or organization as they deem appropriate. 

(3)If the complainant or respondent do not accept the findings of the Commissioners Board, they are then  encouraged to present the matter for consideration before the ASA (Alberta Soccer Association). 

Hot Weather Policy 

Be advised when the local temperature is 30 degrees Celsius or higher, and/or Environment Canada has issued  a HEAT Advisory/Warning: 

  1. A two-minute water break will take place at approximately halfway (22nd minute) through the first half of the  game and again approximately halfway (22nd Minute) through the second half of the game. 
  2. The players must stay on the field of play and there shall be no coaching. 
  3. Two minutes will be added as extra time to each half. 

Referee to notify both teams prior to the match if you are going to have a water break stoppage

Inclement Weather Driving Policy 

The Board of CGSA is committed to the safety of all its registered players and their families; therefore, the  following policy takes effect immediately. 

Road Conditions: 

The CGSA Board shall consult the AMA Road Reports web site at https://roadreports.ama.ab.ca/ conditions  three (3) hours prior to kickoff time of all regularly scheduled CGSA League games where travel to Red Deer or  Edmonton is required to determine whether road conditions will preclude travel to the game. If AMA Road  Reports indicate that any portion of Highway 2 from Edmonton to Red Deer is in POOR DRIVING CONDITION (this  will be denoted in red) 3 hours prior to scheduled kickoff time of any regularly scheduled CGSA League game, then  the team shall not travel to the game. Perform a “screen print” of the road conditions report. 

The Travelling Team Coach will then be required to e-mail the Home Team Head Coach, and CGSA, at  admin2@CGSA.com or Fax: 780-444-4321 three (3) hours before kickoff time, or as soon as possible thereafter,  advising that the team will not be traveling to the game (include particulars of game time and location, age category  and tier, and team names) as Highway 2 or portion thereof (include the “screen print” of the section of road  indicating poor driving conditions) is in poor driving condition, and travel is not advised. Indicate the date and time  the report was printed off the AMA web site. 

If the AMA Road Reports web site is unavailable, call AMA Road Report by Phone @ 511. The same procedures are  to be followed (as if utilizing the web-site) except that a note is to be provided CGSA attesting to the time of the call  and that the reported road condition of Highway 2 is in poor driving condition. 

Temperature: 

If the recorded temperature three (3) hours prior to scheduled kickoff time of any regularly scheduled CGSA League  game, at city of departure (Edmonton/Red Deer) as reported by Environment Canada is -30.0 degrees or below  (inclusive of wind chill) Celsius, then the team shall not travel to the game. 

The Travelling Team Coach will then be required to e-mail the Opposition Team Head Coach, and CGSA at  admin2@CGSA.com three (3) hours before kickoff time, or as soon as possible thereafter, advising that the team  will not be traveling to the game (include particulars of game time and location, age category and tier, and team  names) as the temperature is -30.0 degrees (or below) (inclusive of wind chill) Celsius. 

Weather Forecast: 

The Travelling Team Coach shall consult the Government of Canada web site at http://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/ab 50 metric e.html (for Edmonton) http://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/ab-29 metric e.html (for Red Deer) three (3)

hours prior to kickoff time of all regularly scheduled CGSA League games where travel to Red Deer or Edmonton is  required to determine whether storm warning or advisories will preclude travel to the game. 

If either or both cities indicate a storm advisory or warning in effect (This will be bolded Red Box) three (3) hours  prior to scheduled kickoff time of any regularly scheduled CGSA League game, then the team shall not travel to  the game. Perform a “screen print” of the road conditions report. 

The Travelling Team Coach will then be required to e-mail the Opposition Team Head Coach, and CGSA, at  admin2@CGSA.com or Fax: 780-444-4321 three (3) hours before kickoff time, or as soon as possible thereafter,  advising that the team will not be traveling to the game (include particulars of game time and location, age  category and tier, and team names) as a Storm advisory (include the “screen print” of Government of Canada  website showing the storm advisory or warning) is in effect, and travel is not advised. The website will include the  date and time and must be shown on the screen shot as well. 

Fines 

  • Teams will incur no fines if these procedures are followed. The game will be rescheduled at CGSA’s  time/date discretion. 
  • Home teams may use the facility that was booked for the regularly scheduled league game for practicing at their  discretion. 
  • Teams failing to show for league games, except under conditions of this policy, are subject to fines up to $1,000  (Rule 11.7) and possible suspension.

CGSA Insurance Program 

Sutton Special Risk is the insurance broker responsible for arranging the insurance program for Alberta  Soccer Association (ASA) and its members. 

All Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association (CGSA) registered members (players, coaches, managers,  referees) are covered through the Alberta Soccer Association if they suffer a covered injury while participating in an  Alberta Soccer sanctioned activity. This ASA accident insurance is meant for members who do not have access to  another health insurance plan or to supplement existing health insurances; it is not meant to be a “primary payer”. 

If injured, you should complete an Accident Claim form; this claim form also has to be signed by the attending  physician and should then be forwarded to Sutton Special Risk, as per instructions on the claim form. 

ASA Insurance Coverage Summary 

Alberta Soccer covers its Members with Commercial General Liability, Sport Accident and Excess Travel  (out-of-country is now a mandatory purchase) Insurance protection. 

If you are injured in a sanctioned game or practice, please fill out the Sport Accident Claim form below  within 30 days. Once form is completed, please submit directly to the Insurance Company. The SPDSA does  not need to see the forms and are not responsible for submission of the forms. 

The ASA Insurance policies apply specifically to registered players, coaches, referees, ASA Directors, and  Staff. Volunteers listed in member’s records, and parent volunteers while supervising registered players at  sanctioned games, practices, or events. Both indoor and outdoor seasons are covered. Please note, district  and community Directors are not covered. 

Insurance Claims must be submitted in accordance with timelines to ensure eligiblity of claims. See ‘Contact  Information & Forms’ for reporting procedures and required forms. For coverage details, refer to the  appropriate tab below. 

If you require insurance for an on-field activity: 

If you have been asked to provide a certificate of insurance for a facility you are renting for soccer purposes,  please complete and submit the Third Party Facility Insurance Request Form. 

If you require insurance for an off-field activity (special events, fundraisers, registration days, etc): 

For a non-tournament event you will be required to apply for additional coverage. Refer to the ASA Insurance  tab to submit your request by clicking on “Apply for Coverage” and make payment via credit card. 

If your application is approved you may be asked to provide a certificate of insurance for a facility you are  renting for soccer (regardless if you will be playing) purposes, please complete and submit the Third Party  Facility Insurance Request Form.

COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY 

The coverage will pay on behalf of named insured (ASA), and the additional insureds, where applicable, all sums of  money which the insureds shall become legally obligated to pay as compensatory damages for actual bodily injuries  to participants, spectators, and other members of the public. This also includes property damage the insurer(s)  shall become legally obligated to pay. The policy does not cover defense of criminal code charges. 

If you, as an ASA Member, are served with a Court-originated statement of claim, you must contact the ASA  Office immediately. Please fax this form to the ASA at 780-474-6300. The Insurers will then begin the process of  defending you. 

Activities Covered Under the ASA CGL Policy 

This consists of practices, games, tournaments, related training activities and related approved travel. These ALL must be ASA-sanctioned. 

When am I covered? Click here to determine when you are covered: General Coverage  

Summary Limits of Liability 

Coverage under the General Commercial Liability policy may include the following. Please note that all Policy  information is provided by ASA on a summary basis to give information on what coverages may be available under  the Sports Accident and Travel Accident Policies. There may be clauses that limit coverage under the policy and the  policy must be reviewed in its entirety when determining coverage. For a full version of the policy please contact General Commercial Liability. 

SPORT ACCIDENT Insurance

If you are injured in a sanctioned game or practice, please fill out the Sport Accident Claim form within 30 days  available on this website here. 

The Sport Accident Insurance Policy is in place to ensure that you are not out-of-pocket for medical expenses  incurred through a soccer injury. These are injuries that result in the following losses within 365 days after the  date of accident. Please note these amounts are above what would normally be covered by Alberta Health Care,  and Private Health Care Plans. The policy does not cover lost wages from employment. 

Common Types of Claims 

  • Ambulance Fees 
  • Licensed Emergency Transportation unlimited, subject to Blanket 
  • Physiotherapy ($500 maximum) 
  • Blanket Dental 
  • Out of Province Medical Accident (inside Canada) 

For a full list of a coverage options please contact Shaun Lowther at execdir@albertasoccer.com 

Please note that all policy information is provided by ASA on a summary basis to give information on what coverage  may be available under the Sports Accident and Travel Accident Policies. There may be clauses that limit coverage  under the policy and the policy must be reviewed in its entirety when determining coverag

CSA Lightning Safety/Severe Weather Policy 

Lightning Safety/ Severe Weather Policy 

When thunder roars, go indoors! 

The safety of players, coaches, management and spectators is the primary concern in any weather event that  occurs during all matches sanctioned by Canada Soccer. By understanding and following the below information,  the safety of everyone shall be greatly increased. Ultimately, the referee has the final say over delaying or  restarting a match due to weather. Waiting to stop play or not waiting to start play may result in a serious injury  or loss of life. Referees are expected to act responsibly when dealing with such events during matches they are  controlling If you can hear thunder, you can get hit by lightning. As soon as you hear thunder, quickly get to a safe  location. More people are struck before and after a thunderstorm than during one. Stay inside for 30 minutes  after the last rumble of thunder. 

Additional Information 

Please note the following recommendations from Environment Canada: 

  • To plan for a safe day, check the weather forecast first. If thunderstorms are forecast, avoid  being outdoors at that time or make an alternate plan. Identify safe places and determine  how long it will take you to reach them. 
  • Watch the skies for developing thunderstorms and listen for thunder. As soon as you hear  thunder, quickly get to a safe location. If you can hear thunder, you are in danger of being  hit by lightning. More people are struck before and after a thunderstorm than during one. 
  • Get to a safe place. A safe location is a fully enclosed building with wiring and plumbing.  Sheds, picnic shelters, tents or covered porches do NOT protect you from lightning. If no  sturdy building is close by, get into a metal-roofed vehicle and close all the windows. 
  • Do not handle electrical equipment, telephones or plumbing. These are all electrical conductors. Using a computer or wired video game system, taking a bath or touching a  metal window frame all put you at risk of being struck by lightning. Use battery-operated  appliances only. 
  • If caught outdoors far from shelter, stay away from tall objects. This includes trees, poles,  wires and fences. Take shelter in a low-lying area but be on the alert for possible flooding. 

Be aware of how close lightning is occurring. Thunder always accompanies lightning, even though its audible range  can be diminished due to background noise in the immediate environment and its distance from the observer. 

When larger groups are involved, the time needed to properly evacuate an area increases. As time requirements  change, the distance at which lightning is noted and considered a threat to move into the area must be increased.

Know where the closest “safe structure or location” is to the field or playing area and know how long it takes to get  to that safe structure or location. Safe structure or location is defined as: 

  • Any building normally occupied or frequently used by people, i.e., a building with plumbing and /  or electrical wiring that acts to electrically ground the structure. Avoid using shower facilities for  safe shelter and do not use the showers or plumbing facilities during a thunderstorm. 

In the absence of a sturdy, frequently inhabited building, any vehicle with a hard metal roof (not a convertible or  golf cart) and rolled-up windows can provide a measure of safety. A vehicle is certainly better than remaining  outdoors. It is not the rubber tires that make a vehicle a safe shelter, but the hard 2 metal roof which dissipates the  lightning strike around the vehicle. Do not touch the sides of any vehicle! 

If no safe structure or location is within a reasonable distance, find a thick grove of small trees surrounded by taller  trees or a dry ditch. Assume a crouched position on the ground with only the balls of the feet touching the ground,  wrap your arms around your knees and lower your head. Minimize contact with the ground because lightning  current often enters a victim through the ground rather than by a direct overhead strike. Minimize your body’s  surface area and the ground! Do not lie flat! If unable to reach safe shelter, stay away from the tallest trees or  objects such as light poles or flag poles), metal objects (such as fences or bleachers), individual trees, standing pools  of water, and open fields. Avoid being the highest object in a field. Do not take shelter under a single, tall tree. 

Avoid using the telephone, except in emergency situations. People have been struck by lightning while using a land line telephone. A cellular phone or a portable remote phone is a safe alternative to land-line phones, if the person  and the antenna are located within a safe structure or location, and if all other precautions are followed. 

When considering resumption of any athletics activity, wait at least thirty (30) minutes after the last flash  of lightning or sound of thunder before returning to the field. 

First aid for lightning victims 

Prompt, aggressive CPR has been highly effective for the survival of victims of lightning strikes. 

  • Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge and can be safely handled. Call for help. Victims may be suffering from burns or shock and should receive medical  attention immediately. Call 9-1-1 or your local ambulance service. 
  • Give first aid. If breathing has stopped, administer cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR).  Use an automatic external defibrillator if one is available. 

For additional information the following websites are helpful:  

http://www.ec.gc.ca/foudre-lightning/default.asp?lang=En&n=57412D67-1 

www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/lightning 

CGSA Privacy Policy 

SUBJECT: Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) 

Community Grassroots Soccer Association Directors (hereafter referred to as “CGSA”) are committed to  keeping the personal information of its membership accurate, confidential, secure and private. This privacy  policy has been designed to inform players, coaches, coaching staff, referees and parents of our  commitment and recognition to our obligation to meet the spirit and terms of the federal Personal  Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act. 

POLICY: 

This Privacy Policy describes the principles the CGSA will use to protect the privacy of personal information  in its possession. It addresses the reasons why such information is collected, how it is used, how its  confidentiality is protected and outlines the membership’s rights in respect of this information. 

This Privacy Policy incorporates and expands the 10 principles for the protection of personal information, as  devised by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). This Privacy policy does not apply to information  regarding achievements of individuals or teams within the confines of the game of soccer. 

REFERENCES: Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act  

PERSONAL INFORMATION PROTECTION PRINCIPLES 

1.Accountability: 

The CGSA is accountable for the protection of all personal information within the organization's possession or  control, including any personal information that has been transferred to a third party for processing purposes.  CGSA will require a comparable level of protection of this information from its third party relations. 

2.Identifying Purposes: 

Personal information that CGSA collects from its members includes: 

  1. Name, age and sex of participate. 
  2. Address, telephone number(s) and email address of participate(s) including parents. c. Medical information to be used in case of emergency care. 
  3. Participates past involvement within organized soccer including levels of play, seminars, clinics and  levels of achievement recognized. 

The CGSA's sole purpose for collecting this information is to insure the following criteria are met: 

  1. All participates are identified via proper registration forms which may or may not include photo I.D. b. Participates can be assured other members of his or her team meet the age limits as predefined  for the participates.
  2. All participates in a position of instructor, referee, trainer or any other deemed necessary has been  properly identified, qualifications provided and has been sanctioned by the CGSA Board of Directors. 

3.Consent: 

CGSA will obtain consent before or when it collects, uses or discloses personal information about an individual. An  individual can provide consent to the collection, use and disclosure of personal information about them expressly or  implicitly. CGSA will collect, use or disclose personal information without an individual's consent only in limited  circumstances as permitted by law. Subject to certain legal and contractual restrictions and reasonable notice, an  individual can refuse or withdraw their consent to the collection, use or disclosure of personal information about  them at any time. Additional reference can be found on the reverse side of the CGSA Stars registration form, under  Section A (Consent for Use of Personal Information). 

4.Limiting Collection: 

CGSA limits the amount and type of personal information it collects to that which is necessary for the business of  the Leagues of Play CGSA participates in. Each member club of CGSA will be responsible for its own collection, use  and disclosure of information. Personal Information will be collected using procedures which are fair, transparent  and lawful. 

5.Limiting Use, Disclosure and Retention: 

CGSA will only use the personal information for the purpose for which it was collected as identified in principle  #2,unless consent is given by the individual to use or disclose it for another purpose (i.e. newspaper articles). Under  certain exceptional circumstances, CGSA may have a legal duty or right to disclose personal information without the  individual's knowledge or consent. The Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association does not disclose this  information to public bodies or individuals except as authorized by law. The Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer  Assocation keeps the information only for the length of time necessary to fulfill the purpose(s) for which it was  collected. Currently the Alberta Soccer Association requires that all registration data, and all data resulting from a  game (game sheets, discipline reports, exhibition games, etc.) must be retained for 7 years after the end of the  season, after which the personal information will be destroyed or made anonymous. 

6.Accuracy: 

In order to ensure accountability, all personal information will be kept accurate, complete and up to  date. Individuals may challenge the accuracy and completeness of personal information about them  and have it amended, as appropriate. 

7.Safeguards: 

In executing its responsibilities with respect to the confidentiality of personal information, CGSA will employ a  number of safeguards, appropriate to the sensitivity of the information, to protect personal information  against loss or theft, as well as unauthorized access, disclosure, copying, use, or modification. Such safeguards  will include physical measures, organizational measures and 

technological measures, for example locked filing cabinets, restricted access to files, limiting access on a  “need to know ”basis, and securing member related information in a centrally-located, network secured  storage medium, including any off site backup copies. 

8.Openness: 

CGSA will make this policy relating to the protection of personal information available to all its members. 

9.Individual Access: 

Any member of CGSA can have access to the personal information about them that is in CGSA’s possession or control. Any member may request that their personal information be amended for purposes of accuracy and completeness. Members can make their requests directly to their Soccer Director>CGSA. 

10.Challenging Compliance: 

Any member of the CGSA may challenge its compliance with this Privacy Policy by contacting any member of  the board directly. CGSA will develop policies and procedures to receive, investigate and respond to  individuals' complaints and questions. If the individual(s) are not satisfied with the way CGSA has responded  to a complaint, the customer can contact the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.(www.privcom.gc.ca) 

Response to an individual’s request will be made in a timely and efficient manner. 

CGSA Stars Program - Registration Fee Assistance 

The CGSA Stars Program understands that registration fees can be costly and we strive to maintain the lowest  soccer fees while still offering exceptional experiences, coaching and development to those who love the  beautiful game as much as we do. 

There are two main organizations that offer financial aid to families for sports - click either name to be  taken to their site: 

KidSport Canada  

Jumpstart 

KidSport Canada: 

Kidsport will cover up to $250 per person per year. 

CGSA is unable to apply for this program on your behalf. You must apply directly and take a moment to  familiarize yourself with KidSport deadlines for submissions. 

Jumpstart: 

Jumpstart will cover up to $300 per activity. 

CGSA is unable to apply for this program on your behalf. You must apply directly and please take a  moment to familiarize yourself with the program including guidelines. 

To be eligible for funding for one or more children, families must first meet specific financial criteria as per  Revenue Canada’s Low-Income Cut-Offs (LICO) chart

Right to Play Policy 

CGSA is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all players and program participants. CGSA's  Right to Play policy encompasses the rights afforded to all players participating in Club programs, as well as the  Codes of Conduct that the Club has in place to protect youth players as well as adult players, coaches, staff,  volunteers, match officials and spectators. 

Violation of any of these rights or Codes of Conduct is taken very seriously by CGSA is committed to acting swiftly  and appropriately in response to any complains of misconduct. Parties found to be in violation of any of the codes  are subject to disciplinary measures as decided by CGSA, the Alberta Soccer Association, Canada Soccer and  potentially Regional Police Service. 

Player Rights are as follows: 

  • All players have the right to learn the sport of soccer and develop at their own pace. 
  • All players have the right to voice questions and concerns without fear of repercussions or judgement from fellow  players, coaches, spectators. 
  • All players have the right to enjoy the sport free from abuse of any kind (physical, verbal emotional, cyber or  otherwise) from any players, coaching staff or any other person in a position of authority of influence. All  players have the right to say no to physical contact or interaction with another person. 
  • All players have the right to feel comfortable while participating in any sanctioned activity. Players should  never be made to feel uncomfortable, nervous or compromised by a coach, parent. 
  • All players have the right to be treated fairly regardless of age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability,  ethnic background, religion or race. 
  • All players have the right to have fun. 

CGSA Codes of Conduct encompassed by the Right to Play Policy: 

  • Fair Play Code of Conduct (Includes Codes for Players, Coaches, Officials, and Parents/Guardians) Coach & Manager Code of Conduct 
  • Friendly Fan Policy 
  • Discipline Policy 
  • Serious Occurrence Policy 
  • Anti-Bullying Policy 

The above policies can be found on CGSA's website and are available to the public. 

CGSA recognizes its responsibility to protect all players involved in CGSA programming. As such, CGSA requires all  staff and volunteers over 18 years of age to obtain a Vulnerable Sector Screening which are kept on file at CGSA and  are to be updated every two years. CGSA also requires acknowledgement of all policies and procedures from staff 

and volunteers involved in the organization. Allegations of abuse and misconduct are taken very seriously by  CGSA. Any reports of abuse or misconduct should be made to CGSA via the Commissioners Board. 73

Respect in Sport Activity Leader Training Program 

The Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association (CGSA) is committed to creating a sport environment in which  all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. Coaches and team staff have a responsibility to create a  sporting environment that is free of harassment and abuse. 

CGSA requires that all coaches and team staff participating in soccer have completed the online Respect in Sport  activity leader course. 

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES 

  1. The policy applies to all coaches and team staff registered with or named on an official team roster; or under  the jurisdiction of the CGSA. No card will be issued without the Respect in Sport number listed on the roster with  the exception of new youth coaches who will have until June 15th of the current year to comply with this policy. 

- Coaches includes Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Co-Coach, Technical Coach  

- Team Personnel includes Manager, Trainer, Technical Director 

  1. Any coach or team staff not having completed the program or maintained certified status in the timeframe  established by the CGSA may be removed as a coach/team staff until such time that the course is completed. 
  2. The Board of Directors of the CGSA, through the Association Staff, is responsible for setting out  the communication and timing of course completion and recertification. 
  3. Non-compliance of this policy may result in further discipline as determined by the Board of Directors. 5. This policy will be reviewed annually by the CGSA Board of Directors. 

Respect in Sport Parent Program Implementation Plan 

CGSA recognizes the importance of the Respect In Sport Parent Program. CGSA was a trailblazer in the province of  Alberta when it came to first introducing the Respect in Sport Activity Leader Program to our coaches several years  ago. We would like to continue the process of ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all those involved in  soccer. 

CGSA will work closely with our member clubs on implementing the Parent Program for all participants in the CGSA  Stars Program. Completion of the Respect In Sport Parent Program for at least one parent/guardian of every  registered player (under the age of 18) shall be a condition of their eligibility for participation. 

Payment Options: 

- Individuals may pay for their own Parent Program using their credit card and accessing the Respect in Sport  website. 

- Clubs may pre-pay for access codes for bulk distribution to CGSA Star members 

Parent Program Implementation - with the Parent Program being a new initiative for its members we realize there  will not be 100% compliance so the following program awareness methods will be used; 

- Prior to registration - make our members aware of the Respect in Sport Parent pre requisite. - At Registration - as parents register their child the Respect in Sport Parent information is provided - During the season - CGSA to monitor compliance 

If certain parents are still not complying by mid-way point of the season then teams may be forced to prevent child  participation until program is complete. These deadlines would be communicated well in advance so that everyone  is aware of the repercussions of not completing the Program 

Rule of Two Policy 

The Coaching Association of Canada’s Rule of Two states that there will always be two screened and National  Coach Certification Program (NCCP) trained or certified coaches with an athlete in situations where the athlete is  potentially vulnerable. One-on-one interactions between a coach and an athlete, without another individual  present, must be avoided in all circumstances except medical emergencies. 

Guidelines 

1) Any interaction between a team official and an athlete, regardless of time or location, must include a minimum of  two screened team officials present, one of whom must be the same gender of the athlete. The exception to this  would be for medical emergencies. 

2) A “screened” team official means a team official that has completed and submitted a Criminal Record check  and is valid as per the Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association (CGSA) CRC Policy. 

3) The screened team officials must be eighteen (18) years of age or older. 

4) A same gender team official must always be present during practices and within ear shot of the players  and other team officials. 

TRAVEL - The following guidelines will apply during travel with athletes: 

  • A Person in Authority may not be alone in a car with an athlete unless the Person in Authority is the  athlete’s parent or guardian. 
  • A Person in Authority may not share a room or be alone in a hotel room with an athlete unless  the Person in Authority is the athlete’s parent or guardian. 
  • Room or bed checks during overnight stays must be done by two Persons in Authority, whom one is  of the same gender of the players. 

LOCKER ROOM / CHANGING AREA / MEETING ROOM -The following guidelines will apply for locker rooms, changing areas, and meeting rooms: 

  • Interactions between a Person in Authority and an individual athlete should not occur in any  room where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy such as the 
  • locker room, meeting room, washroom, or changing area. A second Person in Authority  should be present for all necessary interactions in any such room. 
  • If Persons in Authority are not present in the locker room or changing area, or if they are not  permitted to be present, they should still be available outside the locker room, or changing area  and be able to enter the room or area if required. 

TRAINING / COMPETITION ENVIRONMENT - The following guidelines will apply for the training and competition environment (including before, during, and after practices and games): 

  • A Person in Authority should never be alone with an athlete prior to or following a game or practice,  unless the Person in Authority is the athlete’s parent or guardian. If the athlete is the first athlete to  arrive, the athlete’s parent should remain until another athlete or Person in Authority arrives.  Similarly, if an athlete would potentially be alone with a Person in Authority following a game or  practice, the Person in Authority should ask another Person in Authority (or a parent or guardian of  another athlete) to stay until all the athletes have been picked up. If an adult is not available, then  another athlete should be present in order to avoid the Person in Authority being alone with a single athlete. 
  • Persons in Authority giving instructions, demonstrating skills, or facilitating drills or lessons to an  individual athlete should always be doing so within earshot and eyesight of another Person in  Authority 

GENDER IDENTITY - A Person in Authority who is interacting with athletes should be of the same gender identity as the athletes. The following guideline will apply: 

  • For teams consisting of athletes of just one gender identity, a Person in Authority of the  same gender identity should be available to participate or attend every interaction. 
  • For teams consisting of athletes of more than one gender identity (e.g., co-ed teams), a Person in  Authority of each gender identity should be available to participate or attend every interaction. 

 

CGSA Serious Occurrence Policy 

Policy Statement 

The Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association (CGSA) goal is to provide a positive soccer experience for  all stakeholders involved with the association. Even with a dedicated leadership team, generous volunteers,  and hardworking staff, there are sometimes occurrences of a serious nature that need to be addressed  formally and promptly by the CGSA. 

The CGSA takes situations in which someone is offended, made to feel uncomfortable or intimidated or are  put in a precarious position very seriously, as these situations can often be very upsetting and affect the  relationship between those involved and the association. 

The Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association is committed to hearing, investigating and ensuring  proper action is taken in the event of a serious occurrence. This policy has been created to outline the serious  occurrence reporting process to address situations where an unwelcome conduct or communication creates  an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. 

Guidelines 

GLOSSARY OF POLICY TERMS  

Serious Occurrences 

A serious occurrence is defined as a situation in which inappropriate behaviour or unwelcome conduct is  displayed in association within the Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association program. 

Inappropriate behaviour/unwelcome conduct is defined as follows: 

Comments, conduct, or gestures directed toward an individual or group of individuals which is  insulting, intimidating, humiliating, malicious, degrading and/or offensive in nature. 

Criminal Misconduct 

Allegations of criminal misconduct or suspected player abuse will be reported to law enforcement.

Confidentiality 

Every effort will be made to preserve confidentiality and protect the privacy of those involved in the investigation  to the extent the investigative process allows. 

Retaliation 

Retaliation against any person involved in the complaint process is prohibited by the CGSA and will result in  disciplinary action. This includes individuals who initiate complaints, persons against whom a complaint has  been filed, players, and witnesses. 

Reporting Procedure 

The Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association has developed and implemented a formal procedure for  receiving, investigating and resolving complaints. The procedure will include reasonable and prompt time lines.  The Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association’s Executive Director is responsible for receiving,  investigating and resolving complaints. If the complaint directly involves the CGSA General Manager, the  complaint must be addressed to the President of the CGSA Board of Directors. 

Policy Review, Training and Usage Reporting 

This Serious Occurrence Policy will be included in CGSA staff and volunteer orientations. The Policy and its  related forms will be made available to all staff, players, parents, referees and volunteers via CGSA's website  and will be included in all program manuals. 

This policy will be reviewed annually by CGSA's Executive Director, and periodic staff training regarding this Policy  and reporting procedure will be scheduled throughout the year. The Executive Director may give an annual report  to the Board of Directors regarding the use and efficacy of the Serious Occurrence Policy and Reporting Process and  will recommend changes to the program, if applicable, at that time. 

SERIOUS OCCURRENCE REPORTING PROCESS  

Reporting Procedure 

If a member, parent, volunteer, player or employee believes he/she has been exposed to an inappropriate  behaviour or an unwelcome conduct, he/she should bring this problem to the immediate attention of the CGSA’s  Executive Director by completing the Serious Occurrence Report Form. This form should be submitted within 48  hours of the incident to ensure clarity and consistency in the report. 

The completed Serious Occurrence Report Form should be submitted via one of the following ways: 

  1. In person - Please submit the completed form in a sealed envelope, attention CGSA Executive Director.  Should the Serious Occurrence involved CGSAs Executive Director, please address the envelope to the  President of the Board of Directors, of the Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association. 
  2. II. Via email - Please email a copy of the completed form to the Executive Director of the Edmonton  Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association. Should the Serious Occurrence involved CGSA's Executive  Director, please email the completed form to CGSA's President of the Board of Directors. 

Please be reminded that retaliation of any kind is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary  action.

Investigation 

All Serious Occurrence reports will be investigated as soon as reasonably possible and may consist of personal  interviews with the complainant(s), the alleged perpetrator(s), and witnesses to the alleged incident(s). Please  reference CGSA’s Serious Occurrence Report Review and Resolution Process for detailed steps regarding how claims  are processed internally. Resolution of Claim Upon completion of the investigation, CGSA's Executive Director will  determine if an inappropriate behaviour or an unwelcome conduct did in fact occur and recommend an appropriate resolution for the complaint. The complainant will be given a Written Notification of Resolution  describing the actions to be taken to stop the inappropriate behaviour or an unwelcome conduct. 

The complainant may be advised of ways to resolve the problem on his/her own including, but not limited to: 

  1. Meeting the individual in person and describe the inappropriate behaviour or unwelcome conduct,  how it makes him/her feel, and requesting that the behaviour stop. 
  2. Writing the individual and describe the inappropriate behaviour or unwelcome conduct,  how it makes him/her feel, and requesting that the behaviour stop. 
  3.  Asking the CGSA Executive Director or the Operations Supervisor to meet the individual and  request the behaviour to stop. 

If the complainant(s) find(s) the resolution acceptable, the Executive Director or designee will follow up  with the complainant to ensure that the problem has in fact been resolved. A confidential copy of the  complaint and resolution will be filed with CGSA. 

If the complainant(s) find(s) the resolution unacceptable, the Executive Director or designee will follow up  with a meeting between the parties to explore potential resolutions to the satisfaction of all parties involved  and will work with both parties to ensure a reasonable resolution is reached. 

If you have any questions regarding the Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association's Serious Occurrence  Policy, Reporting Form or Review and Resolution Process, please contact CGSA’s Executive Director via email or  by phone at 780-462-3537 

Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association  
Serious Occurrence Report Form 

FORMAL COMPLAINT MUST BE COMPLETED IN WRITING TO THE CGSA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OR THE CGSA PRESIDENT  USING THIS SERIOUS OCCURRENCE REPORT FORM. 

All the information contained below must be completed  

Name: 

Parent(s) Volunteer Player CGSA Employee Witness 

Circumstances surrounding the allegation(s) 

Name of Accused: 

Relationship with complainant: 

Time(s) of the incident(s):

   
     

Date(s):

 

Location(s) where the alleged incident(s)  would have taken place:

   
   

Name of Witness (1):

 

Name of Witness (2):

   

Name of Witness (3):

 
   




STATEMENT - (please provide a detailed  

 




description of inappropriate behavior or misconduct): 

Complainant’s Signature Date Date the complaint is filed at CGSA: _ _ /_ _ / 20 ?   (completed by CGSA administration 

 

TOBACCO FREE POLICY 

The Edmonton Interdistrict Youth Soccer Association is committed to providing a healthy environment  for all members of our association. We recognize the significant evidence demonstrating the negative  impact on health of tobacco products consumption and exposure and that no level of exposure is safe.  

We also recognize that youth gain positive images of remaining tobacco-free when they see role  models and community leaders respecting tobacco-free living. We believe that soccer is a sport that  promotes physical activity and healthy living and is not compatible with tobacco product use. Our  association has a responsibility to provide a healthy environment for all members and to model positive  health behavior with regard to tobacco use. 

All activities, including but not limited to games, tournaments, competitions, practices, training  sessions, events and other performances sanctioned by our association will be tobacco-free. The use of  all tobacco industry products by players, volunteers, officials, coaches, leaders and spectators is  prohibited during all organization events. 

The club will not accept any support or funding from the tobacco industry. 

Tobacco-free means no consumption of any tobacco product by any member within a 9 metre radius  of any club activity. This policy will apply to all locations while the sanctioned event is ongoing. 

We will endeavor to promote the policy at all our activities by: 

  • Providing a copy of the policy in all orientation and information packages for coaches,  parents, officials, volunteers and employees. 
  • Posting our policies and procedures on the club website. 
  • Sharing our policy with other organizations and groups who may participate or attend  our facilities/events. 
  • Making all of our policies visible throughout the year whenever afforded the opportunity. 

We will enforce the policy to ensure that all those attending and participating in the association’s  activities has access to a tobacco-free environment. This will be achieved with the following steps: 

  • Signs posted about our policy where our activities take place using signs, banners and  include in information materials available at the facility where not prohibited. Train our members on how to inform individuals who are using tobacco products about the  club’s tobacco free policy and encourage them to speak up to ensure a tobacco-free environment. The association will be prepared to provide one verbal warning to individuals who repeatedly  do not follow the policy. Members are to advise the association Executive Director so that a club  official can deliver the warning to the individual consistently ignoring the policy. 
  • In the event that the individual fails to heed the verbal warning, the club will provide a formal  written warning. Further violation will result in formal discipline proceedings

 

 

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