ShareBy-law Document
New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association
BY-LAWS RULES AND REGULATIONS
As Revised: May 2011
SEXUAL ABUSE POLICY
PHYSICAL ABUSE POLICY
ZERO TOLERANCE
SCREENING POLICY
CONSUMPTION/USE/ABUSE OF MOOD ALTERING SUBSTANCES
CORE VALUES
BY-LAWS
ARTICLE I – NAME
ARTICLE II – MISSION
ARTICLE III – NON-PROFIT
ARTICLE IV – MEMBERSHIP
ARTICLE V – SUCCESSION
ARTICLE VI – OFFICERS
ARTICLE VII – BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ARTICLE VIII – COMMITTEES
ARTICLE IX – ANNUAL MEETING
ARTICLE X – AMENDMENTS
ARTICLE XI – USA HOCKEY PREEMINENCE AND INDEMNITY
RULES AND REGULATIONS
ARTICLE I – TEAM, PLAYER AND COACH REGISTRATION
ARTICLE II – GRANITE STATE LEAGUE REQUIREMENTS
ARTICLE III – GRANITE STATE LEAGUE TOURNAMENTS
ARTICLE IV – ALL-STAR FESTIVAL
ARTICLE V – SUSPENSION & EXPULSION OF MEMBERS
APPENDIX A - HOME CENTER DISTRICTS
APPENDIX B - AUTHORIZATION FOR PLAYER RELEASE
APPENDIX C - TEMPORARY ROSTER
APPENDIX D - TEAM SCHEDULE FORM
APPENDIX E - TYPICAL TOURNAMENT SCHEDULES
It is the policy of USA Hockey that there shall be no sexual abuse of any minor participant involved in any of its sanctioned programs, its Training Camps, Hockey Clinics, Coaches’ Clinics, Referee Clinics, Regional and National Tournaments or other USA Hockey events by an employee, volunteer or independent contractor. Sexual abuse of a minor participant occurs when an employee, volunteer or independent contractor touches a minor participant for the purpose of causing the sexual arousal or gratification of either the minor participant or the employee, volunteer or independent contractor.
Sexual abuse of a minor participant also occurs when a minor player touches an employee, volunteer or independent contractor for the sexual arousal or sexual gratification of either the minor participant or the employee, volunteer or the independent contractor, if the touching occurs at the request or with the consent of the employee, volunteer or independent contractor.
Neither consent of the player to the sexual contact, mistake as to the participants age, nor the fact that the sexual contact did not take place at a hockey function are defenses to a complaint of sexual abuse.
Upon proof of violation of this policy, the violator will be permanently banned or suspended from USA Hockey sanctioned programs and/or the programs of its Affiliate Associations.
It is the policy of USA Hockey that there shall be no physical abuse of any participant involved in any of its sanctioned programs, its Training Camps, Hockey Clinics’ Coaches, Clinics, Referee Clinics, Regional and National Tournaments or other USA Hockey events by any employee, volunteer or independent contractor. Physical abuse means physical contact with a participant to sustain bodily harm or personal injury. Physical abuse also includes physical contact with a participant that intentionally creates a threat or immediate bodily harm or personal injury.
Physical abuse does not include physical contact that is reasonable designed to coach, teach, or demonstrate a hockey skill. Permitted physical conduct may include, but is not necessarily limited to, shooting pucks at a goaltender, demonstrating checking and other hockey skills, and communications with or directing participants, during the course of a game or a practice, by touching them in a nonthreatening, non-sexual manner.
In an effort to make ice hockey a more desirable and rewarding experience for all participants, the USA Hockey Youth, Junior and Senior Councils have instructed the Officiating Program to adhere to certain points of emphasis relating to sportsmanship. This campaign is designed to require all players, officials, team officials and administrators and parents/spectators to maintain a sportsmanlike and educational atmosphere before, during and after all USA Hockey sanctioned games.
Thus, all On-ice Referees and Linesmen must implement the following points of emphasis:
PLAYERS
A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct (Zero Tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a player:
- Openly disputes a call or argues any decision by an official.
- Uses obscene or vulgar language at any time, including any swearing, even if it is not directed at a particular person.
- Visually demonstrates any sign of dissatisfaction with an official’s decision. Any time that a player persists in any of these actions, that player shall be assessed a misconduct penalty. A game misconduct shall result if the player continues such action.
COACHES
A minor penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct (Zero Tolerance) shall be assessed whenever a coach:
- Openly disputes a call or argues any decision by an official.
- Uses obscene or vulgar language in a boisterous manner to anyone at any time.
- Visually displays any sign of dissatisfaction with an official’s decision including standing on the boards, or standing in the bench doorway with the intent of inciting the officials, players or spectators.
OFFICIALS
Officials are required to conduct themselves in a businesslike, sportsmanlike, impartial, and constructive manner at all times. The actions of an official must be above reproach. Actions such as “baiting” or inciting players or coaches are strictly prohibited.
On-ice officials are ambassadors of the game and must always conduct themselves with this responsibility in mind.
PARENTS/SPECTATORS
On-ice officials will stop the game when the parents/spectators displaying inappropriate and disruptive behavior interfere with other spectators or the game. The on-ice officials will identify violators to the coaches for the purpose of removing parents/spectators from the spectators viewing and game area. Once removed, play will resume. Lost time will not be replaced and violators may be subject to further disciplinary action by the local governing body. This inappropriate and disruptive behavior shall include:
- Use of obscene or vulgar language in a boisterous manner to anyone at anytime.
- Taunting of players, coaches, officials, or other spectators by means of baiting, ridiculing, and/or threatening of physical violence or physical violence.
- Throwing of any object in the spectators viewing area, player’s bench, penalty box or on-ice surface, directed in any manner as to create a safety hazard.
It is the policy of USA Hockey that it will not authorize or sanction in its programs that it directly controls any volunteer or employee who has routine access to children (defined as, anyone under the age of majority) who refuses to consent to be screened by USA Hockey before he/she is allowed to have routine access to children in USA Hockey’s programs. Further, it is the policy of USA Hockey that it will require its affiliates to adopt this policy as a condition of its affiliation with USA Hockey.
A person may be disqualified and prohibited from serving as an employee or volunteer of USA Hockey if the person has:
- Been convicted (including crimes the record of which has been expunged and pleas of “no contest”) of a crime of child abuse of a minor, physical abuse, causing a child’s death, neglect of a child, murder, manslaughter, felony assault, any assault against any minor, kidnapping, arson, criminal sexual conduct, prostitution related crimes or controlled substance crimes.
- Being adjudged liable for civil penalties or damages involving physical or sexual abuse of children.
- Being subject to any court order involving any sexual abuse or physical abuse of a minor, including but not limited to domestic order of protection.
- Had their parental rights terminated.
- A history with another organization (volunteer, employment, etc.) of complaints of sexual or physical abuse of minors.
- Resigned, been terminated or been asked to resign from a position, whether paid or unpaid, due to complaint(s) of sexual or physical abuse of minors.
- Has a history of other behavior that indicates that they may be a danger to children in USA Hockey.
It is the considered judgment of the Board of Directors of USA Hockey that consumption/use/abuse of mood altering substances is detrimental to a healthy state of mind, body, and spirit in an athletic participant. This is especially true for those participants aspiring to develop their talents in the furtherance of their playing, or coaching or officiating careers in the sport of ice hockey. Therefore, with the best interests of the participants in mind, USA Hockey prohibits use by any participant of mood altering substances during active participation in the programs and, upon discovery of any violation, shall take action to remove the participant from participation in its programs for a reasonable period of time. Further, USA Hockey hereby recommends that each and every one of its teams, associations, programs, and affiliates adopt reasonable regulations concerning the prohibition of consumption/use/abuse of mood altering substances and a reasonable enforcement procedure thereafter, in order to maintain the health of our athlete participants, the integrity of our programs, and the eligibility of all our competitors for national, international and collegiate competition.
For purposes of this policy, the words “mood altering substances” shall include the following:
- Intoxicating beverages, including, but not limited to, alcohol.
- Non-prescription or prescribed controlled substances.
- Prescription or prescribed controlled substances when used to excess in violation of doctor’s orders or to produce the state of intoxication in the participant.
Further, a participant shall include players, coaches, referees, and all persons involved in the conduct of an ice hockey contest.
USA Hockey, through its Safety and Protective Equipment Committee, will develop a program of drug abuse awareness for players of all ages through 20 years, their parents, and/or guardians and coaches of those players.
Further, the New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association shall suspend for a period of 30 days, any participant, as defined above, who is in violation of the USA Hockey consumption/use/abuse of mood altering substances. This 30-day suspension shall be enforced for all USA Hockey activities during the duration of the suspension. This suspension applies to the first violation. Subsequent violations will be for at least the remainder of the USA Hockey calendar year, or more, at the discretion of the NHAHA Executive Board of Directors. (Amended 13May, 2006)
The following core values of USA Hockey are adopted to guide the Associations membership in its planning, programming and play, both now and in the future.
SPORTSMANSHIP
Foremost of all values is to learn a sense of fair play. Become humble in victory, gracious in defeat. We will foster friendship with teammates and opponents alike.
RESPECT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL
Treat all others as you expect to be treated.
INTEGRITY
We seek to foster honesty and fair play beyond mere strict interpretation of the rules and regulations of the game.
PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE AT THE INDIVIDUAL, TEAM AND ORGANIZATIONAL LEVELS
Each member of the organization whether player, volunteer or staff should seek to perform each aspect of the game to the highest level of his or her ability.
ENJOYMENT
It is important for the hockey experience to be fun, satisfying and rewarding for the participant.
LOYALTY
We aspire to teach loyalty to the ideals and fellow members of the sport of hockey.
TEAMWORK
We value the strength of learning to work together. The use of teamwork is reinforced and rewarded by success in the hockey experience.
1.A. The name of the Association shall be the New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association, hereafter referred to as “NHAHA” or “Association”.
2.A. The mission of the Association is:
2.A.1. To develop and encourage sportsmanship between all participants for the betterment of their physical and social well being.
2.A.2. To encourage and improve the standard of ice hockey in the state of New Hampshire.
2.A.3. To associate with other USA Hockey Associations.
2.A.4. To conduct State Ice Hockey Tournaments and to determine representative teams for Regional and National Tournament.
2.A.5. To do any and all acts desirable in the furtherance of the foregoing mission.
3.A. NHAHA shall have no capital stock and shall not be conducted for pecuniary profit.
4.A. Membership shall be open to all programs and persons desiring to further the mission by the rules and regulations and By-Laws of NHAHA and USA Hockey.
4.A.1. The State of New Hampshire will be divided into Home Center Districts that correspond to New Hampshire High School Districts. (See: Appendix A for list of Home Center Districts.)
4.A.2. New programs wishing to become established within a district already identified as a Home Center District, provided said Association is in good standing with NHAHA, must present to the Board of Directors a jointly agreed upon division of the existing Home Center District, defining each Association’s proposed boundary at the time of applying for admission to NHAHA. Failure to do so will result in an automatic rejection of the application.
4.A.3. All Youth Teams, including Women’s U-12 to U-19 Teams, must be associated with an approved Home Center District Program to become a member of NHAHA. Applications for membership must be submitted to the Board for a for a vote, and include a letter of intent, a copy of the By-laws of the Association, a copy of paperwork submitted to the NH Attorney General’s office, a copy of incorporation papers, and a copy of 501c3 IRS designation letter. (Amended May, 2011)
4.A.4. Membership shall be renewed annually upon receipt of the NHAHA dues received on or before the October meeting. All new members, after receiving a favorable majority vote of the Board of Directors and Delegates, will be admitted on a one-year probationary basis (non-voting on issues of membership) and subject to review of the Board of Directors after their first year of membership. After a review of the probationary period, the NHAHA Board of Directors and Delegates must vote to decide permanent membership to NHAHA. (Amended May 2011)
4.A.4.a. All new members, after receiving a favorable majority vote of the Board of Directors and Delegates, will be admitted on a one-year probationary basis, and will be subject to review by the Board of Directors after their first year of membership. After a review of the probationary period, and submitting of a copy of their 501 (c) (3) IRS designation letter, the NHAHA Board of Directors and Delegates must vote to decide permament membership to NHAHA (Added May 2009)
4.A.5. NHAHA dues shall be set by the Board of Directors no later than the September meeting. This fee will be due from each program at the October meeting.
4.B. The NHAHA shall have full and final jurisdiction over all its members.
4.C. All member leagues, teams, and programs must be members in good standing with the NHAHA for the current season.
4.C.1. Member leagues, teams, and programs may only combine or merge with other like in kind member leagues, teams and/or programs with a successor association member, league or team named in order to maintain a continuing and non-expiring membership and participation. (Added May 2009)
4.C.2. Member leagues, teams, and programs combining or merging with non-member leagues, teams, and/or programs forfeit member status upon merger and may not participate in member activities until such time a re-application for membership is made to the Executive Board by the successor association. (Added May 2009)
4.C.2.a. All re-applications for membership must be submitted to the Executive Board. Reapplication for membership by the successor association require the successor organization be associated with the original member’s approved Home Center District and must include a letter of intent, a copy of the Bylaws of the successor association, a copy of paperwork submitted to the NH Attorney General’s office, a copy of incorporation papers, and a copy of 501c3 IRS application. A favorable majority vote by the Board of Directors and Delegates at the next regularly scheduled monthly meeting following the receipt of the re-application will allow for full member status without the requirement of a probationary period as required for new members. (Added May 2009)
5.A. NHAHA shall have perpetual succession.
6.A. The Officers of the NHAHA shall be President, First Executive Vice-President, Second Executive Vice President, Junior/Senior Vice-President, Girls/Women Vice- President, Midget Vice-President, Bantam Vice-President, Pee Wee Vice-President, Squirt Vice-President, Mite Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, Registrar, Referee-in-Chief, Coaching Program Director, Risk Manager, and Immediate Past President. Permanent Change: (amended 05/01)
6.B. The election of incoming NHAHA Officers will be held at the annual meeting.
6.C. The Registrar, Referee-in-Chief, Coaching Program Director, and Risk Manager are appointed at the District Level (Amended May 2010)
6.C.l. A term of Office shall be defined as two (2) years. For this election, 2006 only, the term of the President will be three (3) years. After this election (2006), the term reverts back to two (2) years. Elections shall be held yearly to fill expired office terms. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
6.D. The Duties of the PRESIDENT shall include:
6.D.l. Performing duties usual to the office of President including:
6.D.l.a. The power to call an emergency meeting at any time with the request of five (5) Officers.
6.D.l.b. The power to rule on questions not provided for in the rules, regulations or by-laws until next regular or scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors.
6.D.1.c. The right to attend, and represent the NHAHA at Regional and National meetings.
6.D.1.d. To be an ex-officio member of all committees.
6.D.1.e. In the absence of the Treasurer, the right to sign checks of NHAHA.
6.D.1.f. The power to act and give a temporary ruling or suspension prior to the next regular or scheduled meeting. The President would then form a committee according to Rules and Regulations: Article V – Suspension and Expulsion of Members.
6.D.1.g. The President of NHAHA shall not be a President on the Board of Directors of any NHAHA Association. (Added: 13 May, 2006)
6.E. The President, Treasurer, and Executive Vice-President shall be bonded for $10,000.
6.F. The Duties of the First Executive Vice-President shall include:
(Permanent Change: 05/05)
6.F.1. In the absence of the President, the First Executive Vice-President shall have the power to perform all the duties of the President.
6.F.2. In the event of the resignation of the President, the First Executive Vice-President will assume the duties of the President for the remainder of the President’s term. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
6.F.3. Oversee the team placement process and team movement in coordination with the Divisional Vice Presidents. (Amended May 2010)
6.F.4. Attending monthly NHAHA meetings.
6.F.5. The duties of the Second Executive Vice-President shall include:
6.F.6. Giving recommendations for player transfers and releases to the Eligibility committee. Final approval or denial shall be granted by the Eligibility Committee. Handle all Player Release Forms from NHAHA organizations. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
6.F.7. Serving as chairperson of the Eligibility Committee.
6.F.8. Secure ice times for the Select Team tryouts and make the final coaching assignments for the Yankee Conference Hockey Festival.
6.F.9. Act as New Hampshire Tournament Director.
6.F.10. Handling all questions of eligibility of teams and/or players that are raised by member organizations. (Added May 2010)
6.G. The Duties of the Treasurer shall have the responsibility for receiving all fines and funds due NHAHA, depositing them in a chartered bank and paying the rightful obligations of the NHAHA. The Treasurer shall also have all the duties usually associated with the position of Treasurer including the following:
6.G.1. The Treasurer shall sign the checks on the NHAHA account.
6.G.2. The Treasurer shall submit a monthly and annual Treasurer’s report to the Board of Directors.
6.G.3. Arrange for an annual certified audit of the books of the Treasurer’s office when requested by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.
6.G.4. The Treasurer shall submit an annual budget at the annual meeting and recommend all fees necessary to meet projected expenses for approval by the Board of Directors. (Amended May 2007)
6.H. The Duties of the Secretary are as follows:
6.H.1. Compile minutes of all NHAHA meetings.
6.H.2. Distribute minutes of all NHAHA meetings to all Officers and Delegates.
6.H.3. Verify that a quorum is present for each vote taken and verify the eligibility of voting members present at any meeting.
6.H.4. Compile and distribute the NHAHA Directory and update the Directory as needed.
6.H.5. Distribute Monthly and Annual Meeting Minutes to the Board of Directors, Delegates, and any party in good standing with NHAHA, when requested. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
6.H.6. Distribute correspondence for all NHAHA Officers in as timely manner as possible. Electronic communication is an acceptable form for all communication. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
6.H.7. Update and prepare the NHAHA Official Guide for printing each year with any changes that are made to the Guide.
6.H.8. Be the chairperson of the Constitutional Committee.
6.I. Duties of the Registrar are as follows:
6.I.1. Coordinate program, team, and player registration with the member Association Registrars.
6.I.2. Hold periodical meetings to inform and instruct the member Association Registrars on their duties to the NHAHA.
6.I.3. Advise the Board of Directors of the member Associations that have been approved for certification.
6.I.4. Maintain a master file of all registered programs, teams and players.
6.I.5. Under certain conditions, advise NHAHA of players that should be suspended and the reason for suspension.
6.I.6. Under certain conditions, advise member Associations of the suspension of a player and the reason therefore.
6.I.7. Distribute registration forms to the member Association Registrars for team and player registrations.
6.I.8. Distribute information about NHAHA and USA Hockey to the member Association Registrars.
6.I.9. Verify team and player qualifications for State, Regional and National Tournaments.
6.I.10. Attend monthly NHAHA meetings.
6.I.11. Serve as overall Tournament and Festival Coordinator.
6.J. Duties of the Referee-in-Chief are as follows:
6.J.1. To determine the acceptability of Referees and linesmen on the ice.
6.J.2. To investigate all penalties which could require suspension from future games and all game misconduct penalties and report to the Divisional VPs and President as to his findings and recommendations.
6.J.3. To attend all monthly NHAHA meetings.
6.J.4. Conduct and coordinate seminars.
6.J.5. The Referee-in-Chief assisted by the Assistant Referee-in-Chief shall assign/or approve all referees and linesmen for all State Tournaments.
6.J.6. Hold annual RIC meeting, attendance by all member Associations mandatory. (Added May 2009)
6.K. Duties of the Divisional Vice-Presidents are as follows:
6.K.1. Compile and distribute standings of the teams in their divisions.
6.K.2. Advise Tournament Directors and teams of any players that are not qualified for State Tournament play.
6.K.3. Advise the Board of Directors of any problems within their division.
6.K.4. Attend monthly NHAHA meetings.
6.K.5. Advise the President of any violation of the Articles, By-Laws, or other rules and regulations of the NHAHA within their division that may require a suspension or other punitive action.
6.K.6. Recommend fines as provided for in these By-Laws.
6.K.7. Assure that all referees and linesmen have been assigned and/or approved for all state tournaments by the Referee-in-Chief.
6.K.8. Coordinate team placement and movement through the First Executive Vice President (Added May 2010)
6.L. Duties of the Coaching Program Director are as follows:
6.L.1. Establish the eligibility of all Coaches for all member Associations of the NHAHA.
6.L.2. Coordinate and conduct annual USA Hockey Coaching Achievement Program Clinics and Seminars.
6.L.3. Investigate all matters involving coaches, which could require the suspension of a coach, then report these findings to the Board of Directors for necessary action.
6.L.4. Serve on such committees concerned with any matters related to NHAHA coaches or coaching affairs.
6.M. Duties of the Risk Manager are as follows:
6.M.1. Assist and advise Associations in matters regarding USA Hockey insurance and risk management. (added 05/2001)
6.M.2. Attend monthly NHAHA meetings.
6.N. Vacancy:
6.N.1. Any vacancy of elected Officers of NHAHA shall be filled from the membership by an appointment of the President and approval by the Board of Directors for the remainder of that term. Permanent Change: 05/02)
7.A. The Board of Directors shall be composed of the duly elected and appointed officers and Association delegates.
7.A.1. Each registered Association shall be permitted one vote at meetings of the Board of Directors.
7.A.2. A delegate or alternate delegate may not represent more than one (1) Association. An officer of NHAHA may be a delegate or alternate delegate for a member Association with the exception of the President of NHAHA. The President will cast one vote in all tie situations
7.A.2.a. Each association delegate or alternate delegate must be voted to that position by the membership of the association that they represent. (added 05/00)
7.A.3. A priority list including the name of the Association delegate and any and all alternate delegates must be submitted to the Secretary by the September meeting or any time during the season when the Delegate or Alternate Delegate has been replaced. Only the names on the priority list may represent their Association on the Board of Directors. (amended 05/01)
7.A.3.a. An alternate delegate may vote in the absence of the regular delegate.
7.A.3.b. Prior to the start of the Board of Directors Meeting, each alternate delegate must register with the Secretary and specify which Delegate they are replacing.
7.A.4. Any member Association that does not have their Delegate or Alternate Delegate in attendance at each NHAHA meeting shall be fined $200.00 for each missing meeting. All of their Association's teams will be prohibited from playing in any state play-off games until such fines are paid. (amended 05/01)
7.A.5. The Agenda for monthly Board of Directors meetings shall be presented to the Board of Directors at least ten (10) day prior to the meeting. Any business not on the agenda shall be tabled until the next meeting. (Added May 2009)
7.B. The powers and duties of the Board of Directors shall be:
7.B.1. To act upon any and all proposals and to amend or revise the By-Laws, Rules and Regulations introduced by a Delegate or the Rules and Regulations Committee.
7.B.2. To act upon any temporary rulings by the President not provided for in the Rules and Regulations and By-Laws.
7.B.3. To hear and rule on appeals, according to Rules and Regulations, Article V – Suspension of Players, and to hear and rule on appeals from a player, coach, manager, or registered team player.
7.B.4. To serve on committees as requested and to assist the officers of NHAHA in the operation of NHAHA.
7.B.5. To authorize and / or approve any expenditure or encumbrance in excess of $1000.00 prior to the expenditure or encumbrance being paid by the NHAHA Treasurer. This would not apply to items approved in the NHAHA Annual Budget. (Added 13 May, 2006)
7.C. A majority of the total delegates must be present in person to constitute a quorum for any meeting of NHAHA.
8.A. The following are the Standing Committees duties:
8.A.1. The Executive Committee shall consist of all the officers of NHAHA. The Executive Committee shall be empowered to act on behalf of the Board of Directors between meetings of the Board of Directors.
8.A.2. The Rules and Regulations Committee shall consist of the Midget/Junior Vice- President as Chairperson, the Referee-in-Chief and one (1) other member of the board who should be appointed by the President. The Rules and Regulations Committee shall be responsible for all rules and regulation interpretation and may recommend rule changes with concurrence of the Board of Directors.
8.A.3. The Constitutional Committee shall be composed of the Secretary as Chairperson and at least two (2) other members. Its function shall be to maintain the standards of NHAHA By-Laws with those of USA Hockey. The committee will be empowered to make such changes through recommendations and Board approval that may vary from USA Hockey as may be necessitated by New Hampshire’s geographical or monetary considerations. It is the intent at all times, however, to comply with the USA Hockey Constitution and By-Laws.
8.A.4. The Eligibility Committee shall consist of the 2nd Executive Vice-President as chairperson and at least three (3) other Board members as appointed by the President. This committee shall investigate all problems concerning the eligibility of a player or the granting of releases, which cannot be resolved by the 2nd Executive Vice-President, and shall render a decision. (Amended May 2010)
8.A.5. The Nominating/Credentials Committee Chairperson shall be any officer other than the immediate Past President plus two (2) delegates. Its purpose shall be to recommend to the Association at the Annual Meeting its list of officers for the coming year.
8.A.6. The Protest Committee shall consist of the President as Chairperson and at least two (2) other members appointed by the President.
8.A.7. The Finance Committee shall consist of the Treasurer and two (2) members of the Board appointed by the President. The Treasurer shall serve as the Chairperson. It shall be the duty and responsibility of the Finance Committee to regulate and control all funds and all accounts of NHAHA, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors. Also, the committee shall prepare and submit an operating budget for the upcoming year to the President.
8.A.8. The Tournament Committee shall be responsible for State Divisional Playoffs with each Divisional Vice-President serving as the overall Tournament Coordinator for his or her respective division. The committee will assure all teams equal treatment and approves any local tournament committees.
8.B. The President may appoint other committees or members of the aforementioned committees as obligations dictate. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
9.A. Regular meetings of NHAHA will be held the second Saturday of the months of September thru January and the Third Saturday in February. (Amended May 2007)
9.B. The Annual Meeting of NHAHA shall be held prior to the annual meeting of USA Hockey. The NHAHA Annual Meeting date shall be set by the President and shall be held between April 1 and May 30. The President shall inform the delegates and officers in writing no less than three (3) weeks prior to the meeting.
9.C. The Board shall receive all credentials from each member Association; the name authorized to vote and furnishes the name to the Secretary.
9.D. In all meetings, a majority shall prevail except as noted elsewhere in these Rules and Regulations and By-Laws. The President or presiding officer shall vote only to break a tie. No proxy votes will be allowed.
9.D.1. Robert’s Rules of Order shall govern the conduct of all meetings of the Board of Directors.
9.E. The order of business at the Annual Meeting shall be as follows unless changed at the meeting.
- Roll call and proof of notice.
- Minutes of previous Annual Meeting.
- Treasurer’s report.
- Report on previous year’s Divisional Vice-President’s activities and committee reports.
- Unfinished business.
- New business.
- Election of new officers.
- Adjourn.
10.A. The Rules and Regulations and By-Laws of the NHAHA can only be amended or changed at the annual meeting of the Board of Directors if the proposed amendments and/or changes have been presented in writing to each member of the Board of Directors at least twenty-four (24) days prior to the meeting. In order to submit a proposed By-Law change, the Association must (1) include the current By-Law page number, (2) state the current By-Law, as written in the By-Laws Handbook, and (3) write the proposed change as it would appear in the By-Laws Handbook. (Amended May 2009).
10.A.1. A majority, provided a quorum exists, is required to amend or change the By-Laws or the Rules and Regulations.
10.A.2. The Rules and Regulations and By-Laws of NHAHA may be temporarily amended by a simple majority vote of the delegates at any regular monthly meeting of NHAHA. The proposed amendment and/or changes must have been presented in writing to each member of the Board of Directors along with the notification of that meeting. The amendment will only be temporary for the remainder of that hockey season unless it is submitted according to Article 10.A. for the Annual Meeting and passed. Any amendment to be brought for reconsideration must receive a two-thirds (2/3) vote.
1. USA HOCKEY PREEMINENCE
The New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association, an Affiliate Association of USA Hockey, Inc., shall abide by and act in accord with the Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws, Rules and Regulations, Playing Rules and decisions of the Board of Directors of USA Hockey, and such documents and decisions shall take precedence over and supersede all similar governing documents and/or decisions of the New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association. Further, the New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association (i) shall assist USA Hockey in the administration and enforcement of the provisions of the By-Laws, Rules and Regulations, Playing Rules and decisions of the Board of Directors of USA Hockey within and upon its members and/or within its jurisdiction and (ii) agrees to be guided by the following core values of USA Hockey:
A. SPORTSMANSHIP
Foremost of all values is to learn a sense of fair play. Become humble in victory, gracious in defeat. We will foster friendship with teammates and opponents alike.
B. RESPECT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL
Treat all others as you expect to be treated.
C. INTEGRITY
We seek to foster honesty and fair play beyond mere strict interpretation of the rules and regulations of the game.
D. PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE AT THE INDIVIDUAL, TEAM AND ORGANIZATIONAL LEVEL
Each member of the organization, whether player, volunteer or staff, should seek to perform each aspect of the game to the highest level of his or her ability.
E. ENJOYMENT
It is important for the hockey experience to be fun, satisfying, and rewarding for the participant.
F. LOYALTY
We aspire to teach loyalty to the ideals and fellow members of the sport of hockey.
G. TEAMWORK
We value the strength of learning to work together. The use of teamwork is reinforced and rewarded by success in the hockey experience.
2. INDEMNITY
The New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association, an Affiliate Association of USA Hockey, Inc., shall indemnify and hold harmless USA Hockey, the Board of Directors of USA Hockey and each member thereof, the Executive Committee of USA Hockey and each member thereof, the councils and committees of USA Hockey and each member thereof, and all other elected, appointed, employed or volunteer representatives of USA Hockey from any and all claims, liability, judgments, costs, attorneys’ fees, charges and expenses whatsoever, arising from the acts and omissions of the New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association, except to the extent (i) that USA Hockey or its afore described representatives caused such claim, liability, judgments, costs, attorneys’ fees, charges or expenses by their own intentional neglect or default or (ii) that such acts or omissions were the direct result of compliance with the Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws, Rules and Regulations, Playing Rules or decisions of the Board of Directors of USA Hockey. Further, the New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association understands and acknowledges that USA Hockey and its afore described representatives have assumed such assignment, function, office or capacity upon the expressed understanding, agreement and condition that they be so indemnified and held harmless to the extent described in this By-Law.
USA Hockey shall reasonably cooperate with the New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association in any litigation and provide reasonable support in connection therewith, including but not limited to advice and testimony upon reasonable request provided, however, that such cooperation shall not require USA Hockey to incur any out of pocket expenses not reimbursed by the New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association.
1.A. Every NHAHA team, player, and coach must be registered with USA Hockey.
1.A.1. All coaches shall be properly patched in accordance with the USA Hockey Coaching requirements. (Amended May 2010)
1.A.2. All coaches must have their coach’s card at every USA Hockey game. (Amended May 2010)
1.A.3. It is the policy of NHAHA that all volunteers, coaches, managers and board members of the affiliate and of its member associations be required to consent to be screened by USA Hockey before he/she is allowed to participate in USA Hockey sanctioned events. Any person who refuses to consent to be screened by USA Hockey and its affiliate, NHAHA, will not be authorized to participate in USA Hockey activities and events. A person may be disqualified and prohibited from serving as an employee or volunteer of USA Hockey and its affiliates if the person has:
- Been convicted (including crimes the record of which has been expunged and pleas of “no contest”) of a crime of child abuse, sexual abuse of a minor, physical abuse, causing a child’s death, neglect of a child, murder, manslaughter, felony assault, any assault against a minor, kidnapping, arson, criminal sexual conduct, prostitution related crimes or controlled substance crimes.
- Being adjudged liable for civil penalties or damages involving sexual or physical abuse of children.
- Being subject to any court order involving any sexual abuse or physical abuse of a minor, including but not limited to domestic order or protection.
- Had their parental rights terminated.
- A history with another organization (volunteer, employment, etc.) of complaints of sexual or physical abuse of minors.
- Resigned, been terminated or been asked to resign from a position, whether paid or unpaid, due to complaint(s) of sexual or physical abuse of minors.
- Has a history of other behavior that indicates that they may be a danger to children in NHAHA.
(1.A.3. Added May 2009 – Amended May 2010)
1.B. Annual USA Hockey participant registration fees, and NE District team fees will be set by USA Hockey and NE District respectively. These fees will be due along with the appropriate USA Hockey forms no later than the dates set forth by the NHAHA Registrar. (Amended May 2007)
1.B.l. Each team must have each player and coach fill out a USA Hockey registration form.
1.B.2. All necessary registration forms may be secured from the State Registrar.
1.B.3. The Registrar will, when distributing registration forms, clearly indicate all necessary information regarding the appropriate completion of forms, remittance of checks, due dates and all other pertinent information regarding the registration process. The local Association Delegate to the Board of Directors assumes responsibility for clearly relaying all information distributed by the State Registrar back to his or her local Association registrar.
1.C. Rosters:
1.C.1. Rosters shall consist of a maximum to twenty (20) players. Full-Season Midget Teams may be allowed to declare as High School Teams and roster twenty-five (25) and dress twenty (20) players if permitted by the Midget Division Vice President after a review of the circumstances. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
1.C.2. Rosters shall consist of a minimum of eleven (11) players composed of ten (10) skaters and one (1) goalkeeper.
1.C.3. Before a team plays its first game, it shall submit a temporary roster (see Appendix C) to the Divisional VP. Failure to comply will result in a $50.00 fine. Before a team plays its first game, it will also submit its complete Granite State League, hereafter referred to as GSL, schedule of games to the NH Hockey website based on the following schedule: Split Season Midget complete schedules shall be inputted no later than 8/30 each season. In Bantams. Pee Wees, Squirts, and Mites Tier 1 & 2, schedules shall be complete and inputted no later than 9/30 and all remaining Tiers shall be complete and inputted by 10/15. Failure to comply will result in a $250.00 fine. An additional $15.00 fine will be assessed for each game played until both the temporary roster and team schedule are submitted. (Amended May 2010)
1.C.4. Every GSL team’s final USA Hockey roster form must be filled out according to the directions of the State Registrar and returned to the State Registrar postmarked no later than December 1, unless the State Registrar at a regular NHAHA Board of Directors meeting indicates a different due date. Full season Midget teams must submit their final rosters no later than December 15 to the state registrar and no later than December 31 to the Midget Divisional VP. Failure to submit rosters by these dates shall result in a $50.00 fine per game played after December 31 until the final roster has been received. (amended 05/01)
1.C.4.a. A photocopy of all GSL teams submitted to the State Registrar must also be sent by the local Association registrar to the appropriate Divisional VPs at the same time.
1.C.4.b. Split-season Midget and Bantam teams whose entire GSL schedule is completed prior to the New Hampshire Interscholastic Athletic Association’s, hereafter referred to as NHIAA, and other Full-Season teams whose GSL schedule is designed to accommodate NHIAA eligibility of some team members, are required to submit their final USA Hockey Rosters to both the State Registrar and the appropriate Divisional VP, postmarked no later that October 1, with a photocopy also submitted to the Divisional VP, as provided in Section 1.C.a. Failure to submit rosters as indicated in Sections 1.C.4., 1.C.4.a, or 1.C.4.b., shall result in a $50.00 fine per delinquent postmark date for each team. Fines are to be remitted to the NHAHA Treasurer by the member Associations to whom the delinquent teams belong. (Amended May 2009)
1.D. Substitutes:
1.D.1. Teams may use substitute players. The purpose of the substitutes shall be to bring the number of players available to a team for any game up to the number of players on its regular roster, when regular rostered players are unavailable due to emergency situations. At no time shall a team include a number of players on a game sheet greater than the number of players on its roster. And at no time shall the use of a substitute weaken that substitute’s regular team for a GSL game.
1.D.2. Substitutes may be drawn from other teams, from the same Association, from lower level teams in the same division or from any level team in the next lower division.
1.D.2.a. Substitutes are to be indicated by an asterisk (*) on the game sheets of games in which they play as substitutes.
1.D.2.b. Their regular GSL team should be indicated on the game sheet next to their name.
1.D.3. A player or substitute player immediately becomes a permanent member of the higher division and level team for which his name appears on three game reports.
1.D.3.a. It is the responsibility of the coach of the team for which a player performs as a substitute to clearly inform the player, player’s parents and player’s regular team coach of the consequences for the player should he attempt to use a player as a substitute in a third GSL game.
1.E. Team play with international, non-registered, and suspended teams.
1.E.1. No team may play games with international teams until written permission is secured from the Registrar. A team must also obtain permission to play games internationally.
1.E.2. A registered USA Hockey team shall not play a non-registered team or a team under suspension by NHAHA or USA Hockey unless approved by the State Registrar.
1.F. For any Granite State League game, when the total number of penalties for one team exceeds fifteen (15) then the head coach of that team shall receive a game suspension and must sit out his/her suspension during the following Granite State League game and any USA Hockey penalty that may also be incurred for this action. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
2.A. No team registered in the Youth Division will be accepted unless the program initially declares the team in an appropriate Level based on the level of competitiveness. Permanent Change: May, 2002
2.A.1. That the number of teams in each tier in the Mite, Squirt, Pee Wee, and Bantam Divisions consist of no less than six (6) teams and no more than twelve (12) teams when possible. The Executive Board may in the best interest of the GSL modify the minimum and maximum number of teams provided any modification is presented to and approved at the Board of Directors monthly meeting following the change. (Amended May 2011)
2.A.2. The NHAHA will allow the Midget Vice President, with the input from participating organizations through the team declaration process, to break the Split-Season Midgets into two (2) or more tiers, with the First Executive Vice President, the
Midget Vice President, and the President to oversee the teams’ placements. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
2.B. NHAHA shall have a Tier I Level for each division of play: Mites, Squirts, Pee Wees, Bantams, and Midgets. Permanent Change: April, 2003
2.B.l. The first and second place teams in NHAHA Tier I state championship tournaments shall be the entries for the Tier I Regional for each Division. Permanent Change: April, 2003
2.B.2. When there is one (1) entry in a Tier I Regional and one (1) entry in a Tier II Regional, the entries will be determined in the following way. The winner of Level I State Play-Offs will be the entry into the Tier I Regional. Permanent Change: April, 2003
2.B.3. All teams playing in the Level I, Level II and Level III classification must designate a team representative. The representative must attend the September state meeting and meet with State Registrar to review the credentials requirements that must be met should the team progress on to Regional/National Play. The credentials, with the exception of sufficient game sheets to meet the current rule, must be completed by the team representative and reviewed by the State Registrar at the October meeting for Midgets and the December meeting for all divisions. (Amended May 2010)
2.C. There will be one (1) Level II classification in each division. The first place team in the Tier II NHAHA State Championships for each Division shall be sent to the Tier II Nationals. If a Sectional Tournament is being held for the Tier II division, the second place team in the Tier II NHAHA State Championship shall be sent. (Amended May 2010)
2.C.1. If there is a Sectional Tournament for a Division, then the first place team in NHAHA Tier III State Tournament shall be sent. Permanent Change: April, 2003
2.D. Each team shall initially schedule two, two-point games with each Divisional opponent. Each team must play six (6) Division point games (12 points total), no later than the second Sunday of December. Each Divisional Vice President will access play for parity in each Division once play has started, and, with input from the First Executive Vice President and President, may move teams for better parity in each Division. Movement in all Divisions and Tiers must be completed no later than the second Sunday of December. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
2.E. Any exceptions or special requests regarding scheduling regular season GSL games, which cannot be settled by the Divisional VP, will be reviewed and decided upon by the Protest Committee.
2.F. All regular season games must be completed by the end of the second full weekend in February, except for the Midget split-season teams, which must be completed by the Sunday prior to the State Tournament weekend for these divisions. Any exception to this must be submitted to the appropriate Divisional VP.
2.F.1. Any exceptions or special requests regarding scheduled games leading toward tournament qualification, which cannot be settled by the appropriate Divisional VP, will be reviewed and decided upon by the Protest Committee.
2.G. Both home and visiting teams must give each other a minimum of 48 hours notice on postponement of games. A fine will be levied by the appropriate Division Vice President on the offender, to be paid directly to the inconvenienced Association, except in obvious situations, such as inclement weather, emergencies, and mutual agreement. The fine amount will be $350.00 in the Mite through Bantam Divisions and $500.00 in the Midget Division. If the game cannot be rescheduled after a review of the circumstances by the Division Vice President, a forfeit shall also be awarded to the inconvenienced Association by a score of 1-0. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
2.H. If for any reason a GSL game is rescheduled from the date, time or location that appeared on the original schedule submitted on the NH Hockey website or a game that was subsequently rescheduled from the original schedule, the home team shall notify the VP of the proposed change, with a copy of the notice sent to the visiting team, of the particulars of the rescheduling within seven (7) days. The game shall not be changed until the VP approves the change. A $25.00 fine per team, per rescheduled game not reported as above will be assessed to each Association by the VP. (Amended May 2010)
2.I. In the third period of any regular season game and not in tournament play, when the score of one team exceeds the score of the other team by a margin of six (6) or more goals, running time will start. If the goal differential drops to less than six (6), stop time will resume. (Moved from Page 24, 1.F., renamed 2.I., on 13 May, 2006)
2.J. All rules affecting team standings and player eligibility for GSL Tournaments must be made before the State Playoffs.
2.K. Placement of teams in each level for GSL Tournament play will be determined by the final standings at the end of GSL play.
2.K.1. Points are totaled at the end of regular season play to determine the team standings and placement for the State Tournament Play-offs.
2.K.2. Ties in points for standings and placement are resolved by the teams tied in the following order:
2.K.2.a. Head to head Competition.
2.K.2.a.1. The points acquired in these games.
2.K.2.a.2. Subtracting goals scored against from goals scored in those games.
2.K.2.a.3. Dividing the goals scored in these games by the goals scored against the positions being determined by the greatest quotient.
2.K.2.b. If after applying 2.K.2.a.1, 2, and 3 a tie still exists, 2 and 3 shall be applied again using all GSL games played by each team.
2.K.2.c. If after 2.K.2.a. and 2.K.2.b. are applied and a tie still exists the Divisional VP will determine positions via a coin flip.
2.L. GSL Regular Season and Tournament Penalty times.
2.L1. In Mite and Squirt Divisions penalty times shall be:
2.L.1.a. Minors......1 minute
2.L.1.b. Majors......3 minutes
2.L.1.c. Misconducts ........ 5 minutes
2.L.2. In Pee Wee and Bantam Divisions penalty times shall be:
2.L.2.a. Minors......1 ½ minutes
2.L.2.b. Majors......5 minutes
2.L.2.c. Misconducts:
6 minutes for 12-minute period games
8 minutes for 15-minute period games
2.L.3. In Midget Division penalty times shall be:
2.L.3.a. Minors......2 minutes
2.L.3.b. Majors......5 minutes
2.L.3.c. Misconducts ........ 10 minutes
2.M. If a player playing in a sanctioned game (exhibition, league, play-off or tournament) receives five (5) or more penalties in one (1) game, including minor, major or misconduct penalties or receives a game misconduct penalty, he/she will be suspended for the remainder of the game plus the next sanctioned GSL game along with any further USA Hockey discipline . The coach of the suspended player should so note on the game sheet for that game that the player did sit out that game. The player must be in attendance at the game he/she is sitting out. A suspended player shall not earn eligibility towards the 50% eligibility rule. (Amended May 2011)
2.M.1. In all Pee Wee, Bantam, and Midget Divisions, the following Fighting Penalties apply: (Amended 13 May, 2006)
2.M.1.a. First fighting penalty results in a three (3) game suspension. Second fighting penalty results in a 30-day suspension (pending a hearing). The third fighting penalty results in a season suspension from all USA Hockey activities. In the event of a third fighting penalty, the suspension shall not end until July 1st of the next USA Hockey Year.
2.N. Forfeits:
2.N.l. All GSL games must be officiated by currently patched USA Hockey referees. Failure to comply with this rule will mean an automatic forfeit of the game by a 1-0 score by the team through its Association, which had the responsibility to assign officials for the game. Referees are certified by the Referee-in-Chief of NHAHA from the current year until December 1 of the following year. Any problems regarding certification of referees should be directed to the Referee-in-Chief. The forfeit does not supersede any other USA Hockey regulations regarding this matter. The Referee-in-Chief may, if he feels it is necessary, may seek further consequences.
2.N.2. Any team playing in a sanctioned GSL game that leaves the ice during the game over a referee’s decision shall forfeit the game by a 1-0 score.
2.N.3. Any team playing in a sanctioned GSL game with a known suspended player, illegal player or suspended coach or team official shall forfeit the game by a 1-0 score.
2.N.4. Any team that fails to complete their GSL schedule shall forfeit the remaining games by a 1-0 score and be fined $300.00 per game that is not played. The fine shall be payable to the Association which the team was scheduled to play. Permanent Change: May, 2005
2.N.6. In addition to these forfeits, member Association personnel responsible for the infractions may be subject to further disciplinary action by NHAHA.
2.O. NHAHA Official Game Report: Permanent Change: May, 2002
2.O.1. Game Reports will be supplied to each member Association based on the number of teams playing in the GSL at the start of the season. Any other game reports used for Granite State League Games must be in the same format as the Official Game Report. All Game Reports Sheets must include labels that indicate team name, roster and coaches’ names and certification numbers. Any Game Report Sheets which do not have game labels will be fined $10.00 per infraction. Any modifications of labels must be made on all sheets of the Official Game Report. (Permanent Change: April, 2003. Amended: 13 May, 2006)
2.P. Game Report Sheets must be mailed to and received by the Divisional Vice Presidents within 72 hours of the first business day following the day the game was played. If the Game Report Sheet is not received within that period, an automatic fine of $25.00 will be levied against the Association of the hosting team.
2.Q. Game scores shall be entered into the NH Hockey website by the Home association by 12 noon on the Tuesday immediately following weekend games. Failure to post the scores shall result in a fine of $25 per game not reported. (Added May 2010)
3.A. Host Selection for GSL Tournaments:
3.A.1. Host for split-season State Tournaments will be determined at the NHAHA Annual Meeting. Any association that agrees to host a Split-Season tournament will be allowed to enter the lottery at the Annual Meeting.
3.A.l.a. A fee, to be determined at the September meeting, must be paid in full by the Host Association to the NHAHA Treasurer by November 1. (Amended May 2007)
3.A.2.b. If an Association who draws a Split-Season tournament at the Annual Meeting of NHAHA needs to sell or trade that tournament, they must do that before or at the September meeting of the Board of Directors and announce the firm tournament host and location at that meeting. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.A.2.b.i. In the event the location of a Split-Season tournament changes after the State NHAHA September meeting, it will be necessary for the NHAHA to implement the following consequences:
3.A.2.b.i. (1) Both the sending and receiving Associations will remit to the Treasurer of NHAHA checks for the full amount of the Tournament fee by November 1.
3.A.2.b.i. (1).a). Failure to do so by either Association shall result in all teams from that Association, from any level, being declared ineligible for GSL Tournament play until such payment is made. Further, if payment is not received by January 1 of that season, the Association’s Full-Season teams will be irrevocably barred from that season’s Full-Season tournaments.
3.A.2.b.i. (1).b). Neither Association, sending or receiving, will be allowed to host a GSL Tournament for either the next Full or Split-Season.
3.B. Hosts for all Level I and II Full-Season State Tournaments, Mites through Bantams, will be determined by lottery at the NHAHA Annual Meeting. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.B.l. A fee, to be determined at the September meeting, must be paid by the host Association to the NHAHA Treasurer. One third (1/3) of this fee shall be paid by December 1, the remaining two thirds (2/3) shall be paid by February 1.
3.B.1.a. Failure to pay the initial one third (1/3) binder on time will mean that the tournament will become available to any Association who, at the December NHAHA Board Meeting, has a check for the one third (1/3) tournament fee and firm commitments for ice for the tournament. In the event more than one Association wishes to claim the tournament, a lottery of qualified Associations will be held.
3.B.1.b. Failure to pay the final two thirds (2/3) of the tournament fee on time will mean that Association is ineligible to host any tournament in the following Split-Season or Full-Season.
3.B.2. If an Association who draws a Full-Season tournament at the Annual Meeting needs to sell or trade that tournament, they must do so before the December Board of Directors meeting and announce the firm tournament host, location and dates at that meeting. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.B.2.a. In the event the location of a Full-Season tournament is changed after the December meeting of the Board of Directors, it will be necessary for NHAHA to implement the following consequence.
3.B.2.a.i. Both the sending and receiving Associations will remit to the Treasurer of NHAHA checks for the full amount of the tournament fee. These full payments must be completed by February 1. Failure to do so by either Association shall result in all teams from the delinquent Association(s) from any level being declared ineligible for GSL Tournament play until such payment is made. However, all teams from the Association(s) will be irrevocably barred from that season’s tournaments if the required payment is not received by the Treasurer at least one week prior to the start of the Associations first tournament eligibility.
3.B.2.a.i. (1). Neither the sending or receiving Association will be allowed to host a GSL Tournament for either the next Split-Season or Full-Season.
3.B.2.a.i. (2). In the event the date of a Full-Season tournament is changed the Association involved in changing the date, whether the original or a new host, will not be allowed to host a tournament in either the next Split-Season or Full-Season.
3.C. Host for Full-Season Midget will be determined by the Divisional VP after the VP has solicited the names of interested hosts from those participants. At that time, the VP will weigh the interested Associations’ bids against the overall good of that group and assign the tournament site. When two or more bids carry equal merit, the VP may resort to a lottery. Bids must be made by the November meeting by interested Associations. The VP’s decision will be made and all potential hosts notified of the decision prior to the December meeting. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.C.1. Upon being selected to host a NHAHA State Tournament, the local Association, through its Tournament Director, will assume all responsibility for the running of that tournament. They shall adhere to the State Tournament Guidelines and consult with the appropriate Vice President or President for advice. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.C.2. Upon being notified by the Midget VP of their selection to host the Full-Season Midget tournament, that host Association will proceed as all other Full-Season hosts including 3.B. and others.
3.C.3. The standings of eligible teams at the end of the regular GSL season will determine play-off seeding.
3.C.3.a. In Split-Season Divisions and Squirt through Bantam Full-Season play, the first through sixth seeded teams will participate in the first tournament in their level, which shall be identified as the A Tournament. In the event the Tournament Host wants to include more than six (6) teams, it will need to be approved by a vote of the Executive Board of Directors. (Amended May 2011)
3.C.3.b. Requirements for the number of tournaments and the size of those tournaments in addition to A Level Tournaments will be determined at the October meeting.
3.D. To be eligible for tournament play, a player must have played in at least one half of the minimum number of his / her team’s GSL final game schedule, as submitted to the Divisional Vice President. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.E. The local Tournament Director shall:
3.E.l. Not be a coach of a team participating in the tournament.
3.E.1.a. Teams that are unable to arrive with a backup goalie shall be permitted, with approval of Tournament Director or his/her appointee, and State Registrar, to use a substitute goalie from a lower level team from within the same Association. If this option is not available, a substitute goalkeeper shall be provided by the host or other participating teams, subject to the approval of the Tournament Director or his/her appointee, and the team from where the goalkeeper is borrowed. The goalkeeper who has been replaced must return and participate in the tournament as soon as he/she becomes available. The substitute goalkeeper shall only be permitted to participate in a game if the original goalkeeper is injured, ill, or unable to participate. (Added: 13 May, 2006)
3.E.2. Arrange for adequate ice time.
3.E.2.a. Midget tournament games shall be fifteen (15) minute stop time periods.
3.E.2.b. All other divisions shall be twelve (12) minute stop time periods.
3.E.2.c. No overtime will be played in the Round-Robin part of play in any NHAHA State Tournament. Semifinal and Final Games in all NHAHA State Tournaments will be played to a winner and will require overtime if necessary. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.E.2.c.i. A six (6) minute sudden death overtime will be played.
3.E.2.c.ii. If the tie still exists new ice will be made.
3.E.2.c.iii. Successive six (6) minute sudden death overtime periods will be played until a winter is determined.
3.E.3. Schedule games in such a manner as to allow:
3.E.3.a. A minimum of three (3) hours rest between games played on the same day.
3.E.3.b. A minimum of twelve (12) hours rest between games played on consecutive days.
3.E.4. Notify participating teams as to the location, dates and times of their games.
3.E.5. Obtain qualified game officials, which shall include:
3.E.5.a. Timekeeper
3.E.5.b. Penalty timekeeper (which may also be the timekeeper)
3.E.5.c. Scorekeeper (which should not be the timekeeper)
3.E.5.d. Penalty box personnel – one for each team (two for a game)
3.E.5.e. All of the above must be adults with experience at these positions; and if at all possible, they should be registered with USA Hockey as Associate officials.
3.E.5.f. Referees will be appointed for some tournaments by the Referee-in-Chief of NHAHA. For those tournaments which the Referee-in-Chief indicates the local director should schedule referees, that schedule must be submitted to the NHAHA Referee-in-Chief at his request, prior to the tournament, for his approval. Three (3) officials, referees, are recommended to be on the ice during semi-final and final games of the NH State Play-Off Tournaments. The Referee-in-Chief will approve official referees, for all the NH State Tournament Games from a NH statewide pool of officials. Permanent Change: April, 2004
3.E.6. Collect tournament fees from participating teams.
3.E.6.a. Checks for tournament fees are to be made out to the Host Association.
3.E.6.b. The complete tournament fee must be paid prior to a team’s first tournament game. Allowances should not be made for the “check is in the mail.”
3.F. The Local Tournament Director or a designate will personally match the player roster, the player, and the player’s signature to determine eligibility before the start of a team’s first tournament game.
3.F.1. The Divisional VP will provide the Local Tournament Director with a list of eligible players postmarked no later than the second Tuesday before the tournament. Electronic communication is acceptable for this purpose. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.G. The Divisional VP will notify Coaches of any ineligible players before the start of the tournament.
3.H. Local Tournament Directors of Level I or Level II tournaments which lead to USA Hockey Regional tournaments, and Tier III tournaments which lead to Tier III Sectionals, must forward all game reports and the results of the tournament to the State Registrar immediately following the final game. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.I. All tournaments shall be structured as indicated in Appendix E, Typical Tournament Schedules.
3.J. At the conclusion of the round robin portion of the tournament eligibility, advancement to the semi-finals shall be based on the number of points earned in the round robin play. (2 points for a win, 1 point for a tie).
3.J.1. In the event of a tie at the conclusion of the round robin the following tiebreakers shall be applied to determine eligibility for the semi-final round.
3.J.1.a. The results of the games played between the teams tied in the following order:
3.J.1.a. (1). The points acquired in these games. (Head to Head)
3.J.1.a. (2). Subtracting goals scored against from goals scored in the games. Their position shall be in order of the greatest surplus.
3.J.1.a. (3). Dividing the goals scored in these games by the goals scored against the positions being determined in order of the greatest quotient.
3.J.1.a. (4). The team/teams will be seeded in the order of the least penalty minutes. The team/teams will be seeded highest to lowest based on the least amount of penalty minutes incurred in games played in the tournament. To clarify, the team with the least penalty minutes will be the higher seeded team. If after applying the formulas (1), (2), (3) or (4) the tie still exists, the formulas shall be applied in order (1), (2), (3) and (4) until one formula breaks the tie between all of the teams at the same time. (Amended 22 May, 2010)
3.J.1.a. (5). If the above procedure does not break the time, the teams shall use a shootout procedure. This will involve each team selecting five (5) players who will alternate taking penalty shots. A toss of the coin will determine which team will take the first shot. If after five (5) players from both teams have completed the procedure the tie still has not been broken, it shall be repeated with any five (5) players until the standings are determined.
3.K. GSL Midget Split-Season Tier I Tournament will be held the first weekend in November; GSL Midget Split-Season Tier II Tournament will be held the second weekend in November. Both the Midget Split-Season Tiers I and II Tournaments will take place prior to NHIAA tryouts. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.L. GSL Full-Season Tier I and Tier II State Championship Tournaments and Tier II or below tournaments should be held during one of the first three weekends in March at the convenience of the Host Association after having taken into consideration the following restrictions: (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.L.1. Mites – currently there are no USA Hockey, Yankee Conference, or Tier II sectional constraints on this classification so any of the first three weekends would be suitable.
3.L.2. Squirt and Pee Wee hosts schedule:
3.L.2.a. Tier I Squirts and Pee Wees must play on or before the first weekend of March. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.L.2.b. Tier III at least one week prior to Tier III Sectionals
3.L.2.c. All Tiers should also be at least one week prior to the Yankee Conference All-Star Festival. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
3.L.3. Full-Season Midget and Bantam Tournaments:
3.L.3.a. Should be on or after the final weekend of NHIAA state playoffs.
3.L.3.a.i. In those seasons when there is no potential conflict between participants in the full season Bantam and Midget tournaments and the NHIAA playoffs, GSL full-season Midget and Bantam tournaments may be scheduled earlier than the last weekend of the NHIAA playoffs.
3.L.3.a.i. (1) At least one week prior to the Yankee Conference All-Star Festival.
3.M. A team that qualifies for a tournament bound (National, Regional, or Sectional) State Playoff (Tiers I, II, or III), must participate in that particular age group playoff. Failure to show up, report, or participate as a team will result in a fine equal to the cost of that team's participation in the tournament, and all teams from that Association will be ineligible for the State Playoffs in any age group for a period of one year from the date of the team's failure to report. Application of this rule may be appealed to the Executive Board of the NHAHA. Permanent Change: May, 2005
4.A. The NHAHA shall be the sanctioning body for teams and participants participating in the Yankee Hockey Conference Festival. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
4.A.1. The NHAHA shall sanction teams in the following levels:
4.A.1.a. Select – 12
4.A.1.a.i. Select – 13
4.A.1.b. Select – 14
4.A.1.c. Select – 15
4.A.1.d. Select – 16
4.A.1.e. Select – 17
4.A.1.f. Select – Women
4.B. It is the aim of NHAHA to provide an opportunity to all eligible players to tryout for the New Hampshire Festival Teams.
4.B.2. The following eligibility criteria must be followed for the following levels:
4.B.2.a. Select Twelve Youth and Women’s Classifications-to be eligible to tryout, a player must be registered in an Association which is registered with and participates in USA Hockey through NHAHA. This includes local house teams, club teams and GSL teams. Players must also appear on a minimum of eight ( 8 ) game sheets for the NHAHA registered team. (Amended May 2010)
4.B.2.b. Select Thirteen’s, Fourteen’s, Fifteen’s, Sixteen’s, Seventeen’s, and Women’s Classifications to U-19’s: to be eligible to tryout players in these levels must adhere to the following criteria: (Amended May 2010)
4.B.2.c. Be registered in an association, which is registered with USA Hockey or has properly submitted a USA Hockey Individual Membership Registration form prior to the first festival team tryout for that season.
4.B.2.d. All players selected to the Festival Teams must be able to attend all games during the Festival. On Festival weekend, the New Hampshire Festival Team must be your hockey priority.
4.C. Selection of the New Hampshire Festival Teams shall be done at an open tryout.
4.D. The President, First Executive Vice-President, Second Executive Vice President, Director of Coaching and Divisional Vice-Presidents shall be responsible for making the coaching assignments for all levels. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
4.E. The President, First Executive Vice-President, and Second Executive Vice President will be responsible for acquiring ice to hold the necessary tryouts for all levels. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
4.F. The Divisional Vice-Presidents shall be team coordinator for the team or players in their respective division. They should be responsible for preparing a roster for submission to Festival officials. They also shall be responsible for collecting any fees after registration from the Festival players.
5.A. Violation of the By-Laws or conduct detrimental to the best interest of NHAHA or USA Hockey either on or off the ice shall render any member Association liable to suspension or expulsion from NHAHA. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
5.B. Abusive or threatening words of action by an individual toward any NHAHA member or official shall entail the immediate suspension of the individual pending further review by the Board of Directors.
5.C. A suspension of not less than one year shall be imposed for any coach or team official who conceals the identity in order to allow the participation of an ineligible player in any game. (Amended May 2007)
5.C.1. Any coach or team official that allows a suspended player to participate in any game is subject to a hearing and disciplinary action from the Hearing Committee of NHAHA of not more then 30 days. (Amended May 2007)
5.D. The President of NHAHA, upon notice from a Game Official or Divisional Vice President may suspend the designated player, coach, or team official pending a formal hearing. (Amended May 2009)
5.D.1. The designated player, coach, or team official shall be granted a hearing before a committee of the President, two members of the Executive Board, and two others named by the President, to determine the facts/merits of the violation. (Amended 13 May, 2006)
5.D.2. The hearing committee shall have the power to reinstate the individual. Any recommendation for expulsion shall be referred to NHAHA Board of Directors for a final decision. (Amended May 2009)
5.D.3. Expulsion from NHAHA shall be imposed by a majority vote of the Board of Directors. (Amended May 2009)
5.D.4. Any decision may be appealed to USA Hockey.
5.E. The right of appeal is granted to any player, coach or team official who is suspended by the Board of Directors to the USA Hockey Board.
5.F. The suspended individual may apply for reinstatement at the end of the one-year suspension by presenting their case at a regular scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors.
| ASSOCIATION |
HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT |
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Back Bay Youth Hockey
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Wolfeboro, New Durham, Ossipee, Brookfield, Tuftonboro, Effingham
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Berlin Youth Hockey
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Berlin
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Concord Youth Hockey
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Concord, Bow
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Dover Youth Hockey
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Dover
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| Greater Lebanon Youth Hockey |
West Lebanon, Lebanon, Plainfield, Meriden,
Grantham, Enfield, Canaan, Dorchester
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| Hanover Youth Hockey |
Hanover, Lyme |
| Henniker Youth Hockey |
Henniker, Weare |
| Kearsarge Youth Hockey |
New London, Sutton, Warner, Newbury,
Bradford
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| Keene Youth Hockey |
Keene, Westmoreland, Chesterfield |
| Lakes Region Youth Hockey |
Laconia |
| Littleton Youth Hockey |
Littleton |
| Manchester Regional Youth Hockey |
Manchester, Bedford, Hooksett, Auburn |
| Mount Washington Youth Hockey |
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| Nashua Panthers Youth Hockey |
Nashua |
| New Hampshire Avalanche Youth Hockey |
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| New Hampshire East Youth Hockey |
East Kingston, Exeter, Stratham, Brentwood,
Newfields, Kensington
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| New Hampshire Junior Monarchs Youth Hockey (Tri-Town Junior Stars) |
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| New Hampshire Women's Select |
No Boundaries |
| Northern New England Youth Hockey |
Raymond |
| Oyster River Youth Hockey |
Durham, Lee, Madbury |
| Rochester Youth Hockey |
Rochester |
| Salem Youth Hockey |
Salem |
| Seacoast Amateur Hockey Club |
Seacoast Area; Requires approval of area Associations |
| Seacoast Hockey League |
Seacoast Area; Requires approval of area Associations |
| Seacoast Women's Hockey Club |
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| Somersworth / Berwick Youth Hockey |
Somersworth, NH; Berwick, Maine |
| Twin Valley Youth Hockey |
Claremont, Cornish, Unity |
| White Mountain Youth Hockey |
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(Adopted: April, 2004, Annual Meeting)
Player Name: _______________________________________________ D.O.B. ______________________
Home Address: _________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Parent Signature: ________________________________________________ Date: _________________
Home Organization: _________________________________ Current Level/Tier: ___________________
Release by Home Organization:
The above player has no outstanding financial obligation to _______________________________________
(Home Organization) and the above player is hereby released without recourse to the receiving organization named below.
Home Organization: _____________________________________________________________________
By: _________________________________________________________ Date: _____________________
Name: ____________________________________________ Title: _______________________________
Acceptance by Receiving Organization:
_______________________________________________ (Receiving Organization) hereby agrees to accept the above named player as a member of our organization.
Receiving Organization: __________________________________________________________________
By: _________________________________________________________ Date: _____________________
Name: ____________________________________________ Title: _______________________________
Non Objection by NHAHA:
The above player is not currently under suspension by the NH Amateur Hockey Association ("NHAHA") and NHAHA has no objection to the request for a player release.
NH Amateur Hockey Association
By: _________________________________________________________ Date: _____________________
Name: ____________________________________________ Title: _______________________________
Player Release Policy (Adopted April, 2004, Annual Meeting)
Player Release Policy (Adopted April, 2004, Annual Meeting – Amended May 2010)
- NHAHA has a player release policy for USA Hockey registered players who are registered thru NHAHA. This is a financial release only.
- A player that is USA Hockey registered thru NHAHA must obtain a release when changing Associations.
- A player over 18 or a player’s parent must obtain a Player Release Form from the www.nhhockey.com website or from the organization they are requesting to be released from. They must get the form signed from that organization and bring the form to the new organization before they can appear on any roster.
- A roster means a NHAHA temp roster, a Tournament roster for a USA Hockey registered tournament, a NHAHA Final roster, an official USA Hockey roster.
- The receiving organization will sign the form and send it to the NHAHA Second Executive Vice President, who will sign the form and send it back to the player’s new organization.
- A player moving from another state must contact that States Registrar and get released and that release must be sent to the NHAHA Registrar before appearing on a roster for a team registered thru NHAHA.
- Any player failing to obtain a Release shall be ineligible to be rostered on that current team and shall be suspended until such time a release is obtained.
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New Hampshire Amateur Hockey Association Temporary Rosters
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Association:/Division:/Level:
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Association:
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Division:
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Level:
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Coach:
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Address:
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City/Town:
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State:
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Zip:
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Date:
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Telephone:
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Mail a copy to Divisional Vice-President before the first game
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NEW HAMPSHIRE AMATEUR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION SCHEDULE
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Association:
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Division:
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Level:
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Scheduler:
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Tel. #:
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Day
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Time
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Visitor
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Rink
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Pts.
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4 Team One Division Round Robin
Teams in order of Season Finish 1 – 2 – 3 – 4
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FRIDAY
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Game # 1
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 4
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Game # 2
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 3
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SATURDAY
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Game # 3
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 3
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Game # 4
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 4
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Game # 5
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 2
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Game # 6
Date:
Time:
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3 vs. 4
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SUNDAY
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Game # 7
Date:
Time:
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Teams with two highest
point totals play for
championship
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5 Team One Division Round Robin
Teams in order of Season Finish 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5
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FRIDAY
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Game # 1
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 5
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Game # 2
Date:
Time:
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3 vs. 5
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Game # 3
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 5
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Game # 4
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 3
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SATURDAY
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Game # 5
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 4
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Game # 6
Date:
Time:
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3 vs. 5
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Game # 7
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 4
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Game # 8
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 3
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SUNDAY
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Game # 9
Date:
Time:
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4 vs. 5
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Game # 10
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 2
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Game # 11
Date:
Time:
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Teams with two highest
point totals play for
championship
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6 Team Two Division Round Robin
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YYYY-YYYY
NHAHA Tournament Schedule
Location:
Division:
Tier:
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Division A
Teams in Order of Season Finish 1-3-6
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Division B
Teams in Order of Season Finish 2-4-5
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FRIDAY
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Game # 1
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 6
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Game # 2
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 5
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SATURDAY
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Game # 3
Date:
Time:
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3 vs. 6
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Game # 4
Date:
Time:
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4 vs. 5
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Game # 5
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 3
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Game # 6
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 4
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SUNDAY
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Game # 7
Date:
Time:
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1A vs. 2B
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Game # 8
Date:
Time:
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1B vs. 2A
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Game # 9
Date:
Time:
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Winners of Games 7 & 8
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7 Team Two Division Round Robin
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YYYY-YYYY
NHAHA Tournament Schedule
Location:
Division:
Tier:
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Division A
Teams in Order of Season Finish 1-3-6-7
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Division B
Teams in Order of Season Finish 2-4-5
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FRIDAY
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Game # 1
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 7
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Game # 2
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 5
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Game # 3
Date:
Time:
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3 vs. 6
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SATURDAY
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Game # 4
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 3
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Game # 5
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 4
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Game # 6
Date:
Time:
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6 vs. 7
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Game # 7
Date:
Time:
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4 vs. 5
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Game # 8
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 6
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Game # 9
Date:
Time:
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3 vs. 7
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SUNDAY
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Game # 10
Date:
Time:
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1A vs. 2B
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Game # 11
Date:
Time:
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1B vs. 2A
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Game # 12
Date:
Time:
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Winners of Games 10 & 11
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8 Team Two Division Round Robin
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YYYY-YYYY
NHAHA Tournament Schedule
Location:
Division:
Tier:
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Division A
Teams in Order of Season Finish 1-3-5-8
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Division B
Teams in Order of Season Finish 2-4-6-7
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FRIDAY
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Game # 1
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 8
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Game # 2
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 7
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Game # 3
Date:
Time:
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3 vs. 5
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Game # 4
Date:
Time:
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4 vs. 6
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SATURDAY
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Game # 5
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 5
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Game # 6
Date:
Time:
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3 vs. 8
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Game # 7
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 6
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Game # 8
Date:
Time:
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4 vs. 7
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Game # 9
Date:
Time:
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1 vs. 3
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Game # 10
Date:
Time:
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5 vs. 8
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Game # 11
Date:
Time:
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2 vs. 4
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Game # 12
Date:
Time:
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6 vs. 7
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SUNDAY
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Game # 13
Date:
Time:
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1A vs. 2B
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Game # 14
Date:
Time:
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1B vs. 2A
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Game # 15
Date:
Time:
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Winners of Games 13 & 14
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