For the purpose of this Social Media and Networking Policy, the policy will encompass public communications through such internet mediums and websites as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Flickr, Instagram, Snapchat and any other social media network that allows users to communicate online.
What is cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is the use of any electronic communication device to convey a message in any form (text, image, audio or video) that defames, intimidates, harasses of is otherwise intended to harm, insult or humiliate another in a deliberate, repeated or hostel and unwanted manner under a person’s true or false identity. In addition, any communication of this form that disputes or prevents a safe and positive environment may also be considered cyberbullying.
Social Media Guidelines
- The MHL holds the entire membership who participates in social media and networking to the same standards as it does for all other forms of media including radio, television and print.
- Comments or remarks of an inappropriate nature which are detrimental to the League, a team, the Branches including officials, Canadian Junior Hockey League members or an individual will not be tolerated and will be subject to disciplinary action.
- It should be recognized that social media comments are on the record and instantly published and available to the public and media. Everyone including Team and/or Team Personnel, players, corporate partners and the media can review social media communications. You should conduct yourself in an appropriate and professional manner at all times.
- Refrain from divulging confidential information of a personal or team related nature. Avoid revealing business or game strategy that could provide another team or individual a competitive advantage. Furthermore, do not discuss injury information about any player. Only divulge information that is considered public.
- Use your best judgment at all times – pause before posting. Once your comments are posted they cannot be retracted. Ultimately, you are solely responsible for your comments and they are published for the public record.
- If requested to participate in an online network, as a direct result of your affiliation with or participation in Maritime Junior Hockey League, the MHL recommends that you request approval from your team or members.
Social Media Violations
The following are examples of conduct through social media and networking mediums that are considered violations of the MHL social media policy and may be subject to disciplinary action by the Team, staff and/or Maritime Junior Hockey League.
- Any statement deemed to be publicly critical of league’s officials or detrimental to the welfare of a member of a team, league or individual.
- Divulging confidential information that may include, but is not limited to the following:
- Player injuries;
- Trades or other player movement;
- Game strategies; or
- Any other matter of a sensitive nature to a member of a team, league or an individual
- Any form of bullying, harassment or threats against players or officials.
- Photographs, video or comments promoting negative influences or criminal behavior, including but not limited to:
- Negative or derogatory comments about any team, league, MHL staff, volunteers, programs, stakeholder, players or any member.
- Drug use;
- Alcohol abuse;
- Public intoxication;
- Hazing;
- Sexual exploitation; etc.
- Inappropriate, derogatory, racist, or sexist comments of any kind, in keeping with Hockey Nova Scotia policies and regulations on these matters.
- Online activity that is meant to alarm other individuals or to misrepresent fact or truth.
- Online activity that contradicts the current policies of the Canadian Junior Hockey League, Hockey Canada or the Maritime Junior Hockey League.
Discipline
When a complaint is filed that may be in violation of this social media policy, the MHL discipline committee will review and apply a team fine (min $1,000.00) and a suspension to the individual(s) involved.