Female Regulations

Revised October 2026. This page carries the full text of the Hockey Nova Scotia Female Regulations. Every regulation has its own address: select a regulation number in the Contents, then copy the address from your browser to share a link straight to it. References in the text are links. The PDF is the same text, laid out for printing.

Download the Female Regulations (PDF)

Contents

Official Dates
Regulation F1: Definitions
Regulation F2: Competition
Regulation F3: Classification
Regulation F4: Residency
Regulation F5: Registration
Regulation F6: Affiliation
Regulation F7: Permits
Regulation F8: Exhibition Games and Tournaments
Regulation F9: Game Reports
Regulation F10: Protective Equipment/Insurance/Safety
Regulation F11: Certification Requirements
Regulation F12: Fees
Regulation F13: Protests/Appeals
Regulation F14: Amendments
Regulation F15: Standing Committees and Council
Regulation F16: Meetings of the Associations/Councils
Regulation F17: Voting
Regulation F18: U7 Program
Regulation F19: U9 Program
Regulation F20: Maritime Major U18 Female Hockey League
Regulation F21: Non-Sanctioned Hockey Activity
Regulation F22: Female Provincial Playoff Qualifications
Regulation F23: Female Provincial Championship Tournament
Regulation F24: Female House Championships
Regulation F25: Code of Discipline
Regulation F26: Officials
Regulation F27: Releases and Transfers

Official Dates

The U9 dates reflect Regulation F19.4 as amended by Notice of Motion 2026-10.

Back to Contents

Regulation F1: Definitions

F1.1 For the purpose of all Hockey Nova Scotia regulations, unless otherwise defined in a specific regulation, the definitions of the words, terms, and expressions contained in Hockey Canada Regulations shall apply.

F1.2 HC - Hockey Canada.

F1.3 HNS - Hockey Nova Scotia.

F1.4 HNSFC - Hockey Nova Scotia Female Council

1. FC - Female Council

F1.5 HNSMC - Hockey Nova Scotia Minor Council

F1.6 Branch - Refers to Hockey Nova Scotia

F1.7 FHA - Female Hockey Association

1. FREC - Female Regional Executive Committee as approved by Hockey Nova Scotia.

F1.8 Association - Refers to a Female Hockey Association or a Female Regional Executive Committee.

F1.9 Club - A local Female Hockey Association or Female Regional Executive Committee operated and controlled by a duly elected board of directors, the members of which shall designate from among themselves the signing officers for that club [HC Regulation I. 1.g) - Club].

F1.10 Players - Goaltenders and skaters.

F1.11 Goaltender(s)/Goalkeeper(s) - All players other than skaters.

F1.12 Skaters - All players other than goaltenders.

F1.13 Affiliate Player (AP) - Players from club teams, affiliated teams, or specially affiliated players when such player(s) are participating with a higher division/level team.

F1.14 High School Player - A player registered in a public or private high school having played at least one regular scheduled high school game in the current school season.

F1.15 All Stars - Means a selection of exceptional players registered with various teams from a common league, association, branch, region, or the nation-at-large, grouped together for a specific competition.

F1.16 Female Hockey Player - A female player whose date of birth falls within the age limits (for the various divisions of female hockey) approved by Hockey Canada.

F1.17 Female Hockey Bench Staff - Defined as one (1) head coach, one (1) trainer, and assistant coaches up to the maximum number of bench staff (5) permitted on the bench. A minimum of two (2) certified bench staff must be on the bench to start any game.

F1.18 New Coach - Someone who is assisting on the ice and/or the bench that has not been registered with Hockey Canada at any time previous.

F1.19 Certification - Refers to bench staff/team official requirements as per FC Regulation Eleven – Certification Requirements.

F1.20 Female Hockey Season - Hockey Nova Scotia does not support and will not sanction any hockey activities between May 1 and August 31 of any year unless Hockey Canada or its branches sponsor these activities. The normal Hockey Nova Scotia season shall be interpreted to be from September 1 to April 30, during which all Hockey Canada and Hockey Nova Scotia rules must be adhered to.

F1.21 Meaningful Games - Are regularly scheduled games, sanctioned tournament games, preseason games, and preapproved exhibition games verified on the Hockey Canada Registry (HCR) by the Regional Director or their designate. Games that are added to the schedule after a suspension has occurred will not count as meaningful games. A game must take place to count towards a suspension.

F1.22 Exhibition Game - A game that is not part of the preseason, regular season, tournament, or playoff schedule.

1. Preapproved Exhibition Game - A game request entered in the Hockey Canada Registry prior to a player suspension.

F1.23 Preseason - That time prior to October 15 of the current season when Female Hockey Association or Female Regional Executive Committee teams are permitted to play exhibition games and must request a travel exhibition permit from their Regional Director. It is the responsibility of the FHA President or FREC Chair to ensure all players are properly registered with their association during the preseason. This date is to be November 15 for U7 and U9.

F1.24 Regular Season - The approved regular hockey season for league games. By October 15, and prior to participation in regular season games, all U11 to U18 teams must register and receive approval from their Regional Director.

F1.25 Division - Age group in which a player is registered.

F1.26 Levels - The separation of the players within a division.

F1.27 Game - A meeting of two teams playing for a specific length of time for the purpose of declaring a winner through the scoring of goals. Scores are not kept or posted in the U7 and U9 divisions.

F1.28 League Game - Scheduled by the Female Council Scheduling Committee and is one of the total predetermined games that defines the regular season.

Hockey Nova Scotia Female Regulations hockeynovascotia.ca

114

F1.29 Playoff Game - A hockey game or series of games that are used to declare the winner of a league, regional, conference, or provincial championship.

F1.30 Provincial Champions - Decided at a provincial championship weekend hosted by Female Council [FC Policy F1.30 - Provincial Champions].

F1.31 Playoffs and provincial championships are governed by Hockey Nova Scotia and are under the jurisdiction of Female Council.

F1.32 Tournament - A schedule of games played among three (3) or more teams, which follows an interlocking schedule and leads to an eventual winner.

F1.33 Representative - Competitive teams registered and classified under regulations defined herein, eligible for provincial championships and for the purposes of affiliating players [FC Policy F1.33 - Representative Teams].

F1.34 Recreational - Defined as a community-oriented program structured to provide development and competition at the recreational level. Recreational/non-competitive teams are not eligible for provincial championships [FC Policy F1.34 - Recreational Teams].

F1.35 Sledge Hockey - Is an innovative team sport that incorporates the same rules and discipline structure as ice hockey. Players sit on specially designed sleds, or sledges, with skate blades under the seat. Two sticks are used to not only pass, stick handle, and shoot the puck, but also to propel and maneuver the sledges.

F1.36 Release - Means the unconditional discharge of a player from a team or association, except where defined herein.

F1.37 Quorum - The number of members of a group or organization required to be present to transact business legally, usually a majority.

F1.38 Hockey teams are a group of players comprised of:

1. A maximum of 18 skaters and 2 goalkeepers.

a. If only one goalkeeper is dressed, the maximum is 18 skaters and 1 goalkeeper.

2. For teams in an association that have a maximum of 23 players or less in a division, permission may be granted by the Regional Director to register all 23 or less players to one roster, (maximum of 21 skaters and two goaltenders). For any given game, a team may only dress a maximum of 17 skaters and 2 goalkeepers.

a. U18 teams may dress a maximum of 18 skaters and 2 goalkeepers.

b. C teams may roster up to 23 (maximum of 21 skaters and two goaltenders).

3. For U7 teams refer to Female Regulation 18.

4. For U9 teams refer to Female Regulation 19.

F1.39 Hockey Canada Accredited School (HCAS) - An entity that provides an education first hockey program to students within grades 8 - 12 in the divisions of female hockey.

Back to Contents

Regulation F2: Competition

F2.1 The bylaws, regulations, and playing rules of Hockey Nova Scotia along with those of Hockey Canada govern competition within Hockey Nova Scotia.

F2.2 The normal Hockey Nova Scotia season shall be interpreted to be from September 1 to April 30 of the calendar year during which all Hockey Canada and Hockey Nova Scotia rules must be adhered to.

F2.3 The playing rules of the game shall be the standing rules of Hockey Canada. For the purpose of these regulations, a league must consist of three (3) or more registered teams playing a minimum of 6 home games and 6 away games.

F2.4 The Maritime Major U18 Female League must hold its annual meeting no later than June 30 in each year.

F2.5 Any team wishing to participate in exhibition games with member teams must first make an application to the appropriate Regional Director stating when, where, and against whom they wish to compete.

F2.6 All sanctioned games played by members and the qualifications of all players competing in such games as members of the teams shall conform with the bylaws and the rules of competition as adopted by Hockey Nova Scotia.

F2.7 All league winners must be declared in time to meet Hockey Nova Scotia’s playoff dates. Any league that fails to declare its league winner in time to meet the playoff dates set by the association forfeits its right to be eligible for playoffs and is liable for suspension.

F2.8 Any Major U18 and U15 AAA Female teams wishing to compete in Atlantic regional playoffs must comply with applicable dates as established by Hockey Canada.

F2.9 Hockey Nova Scotia must declare its final league winner in time to allow winners to engage in interbranch competition.

F2.10 To be eligible for provincial championships and conference playdowns, teams and players who are registered at the start of the season must play 10 preseason, regular season, or scheduled exhibition/tournament games. The games that will be considered eligible towards provincial playdowns will be at the discretion of Female Council.

F2.11 In all divisions, except for Major U18 and U15 AAA, the playing time of games shall not exceed 45 minutes [FC Policy F2.11 - Game Protocol].

F2.12 Timeouts are only permitted in playoffs and provincial championship tournaments.

F2.13 Teams competing in national or regional events must consist of a minimum of 17 players, two of whom must be goaltenders.

F2.14 A minimum of ten (9 skaters + 1 goalie) players in uniform on the ice and/or players bench, on each team shall be necessary for the start of any regular season league game. Teams with less than 9 + 1 must reschedule the game [Rescheduling Policy.pdf].

F2.15 If female players are available, representative teams must accept a minimum of fifteen (15) skaters and two (2) goaltenders. Any exception must be processed through the Regional Director to the Female Council for consideration.

F2.16 Any team which fails to compete in any scheduled league, tournament or playoff games may be suspended by Hockey Nova Scotia. The offending team will be responsible for covering the costs of ice and officials for any missed games.

F2.17 Games sanctioned by Hockey Nova Scotia must involve only teams and players registered with Hockey Nova Scotia, or with a branch of Hockey Canada, or teams outside Canada which have been approved by Hockey Canada for competition. Games with non-association teams or non-Hockey Canada teams are not sanctioned and all medical and liability insurance is void.

F2.18 All teams should strive to achieve a practice to game ratio of two practices for each game played, but in all cases the number of games must not exceed the number of practices.

F2.19 The maximum number of games to be played by division shall be as follows:

• U9 Development - maximum of 30 half-ice games

• U9 Intermediate - maximum of 30 half-ice games

• U9 Advancing - maximum of 30 half-ice games

• U11 maximum of 45 games

• U13 maximum of 60 games

• U15 maximum of 65 games

• U18 maximum of 65 games

• U22 Maximum 65 games

Games noted above are defined as all exhibition, preseason, regular season, and tournament games. Tournaments count as three games. The above caps would include all hockey games except for regional, conference, league, and provincial playoff games.

F2.20 The movement of players from their age-appropriate division will only be permitted with the approval of Female Council [FC Policy F2.20 - Player Movement].

F2.21 Players choosing to play female hockey must attend the female tryout process from the beginning and will not be permitted to be part of both minor and female tryout processes at the same time.

a. Exception - Female players who try out for Major U18 Female will be permitted to be part of the association female tryout process [FC Policy F2.21 - Tryout Process]. hockeynovascotia.ca

F2.22 Players playing female hockey on teams or in programs comprised of all female players must be registered with an approved Female Hockey Association or Female Regional Executive Committee [FC Policy F2.22 - Female Players - Female Teams].

F2.23 Teams must declare their intent by October 15 to compete in provincial championships.

F2.24 Players may try out for one U11 AA, U13 AAA, U15 AAA, or U18 AA team per year. A second U11 AA, U13 AAA, U15 AAA, or U18 AA tryout may be allowed, only where players are required, with permission of their home association, the Regional Director, and the Female Council Executive. Player placement, when leaving their home association, will be solely at the discretion of the Female Council Executive.

F2.25 Hockey Nova Scotia emphatically endorses Hockey Canada Rule 3.6 (b): While on the ice, including pregame warmups, all players, including goaltenders, will wear a CSA-certified hockey helmet, to which a CSA-certified facial protector must be securely attached and not altered in any way. Any alteration to a CSA-certified helmet or facial protector automatically destroys the certification. The chin straps of the helmet will be securely fastened under the chin. The straps of the facial protector, when designed to allow such straps, will also be securely fastened to the hockey helmet. Coaches and assistants shall wear properly fastened CSA approved hockey helmets at all times while on the ice.

F2.26 First aid services should be available, whenever possible, at arenas during all tournaments, including provincial, Atlantic, and national championship tournaments.

F2.27 For representative leagues, Hockey Nova Scotia will provide league championship banners to the top team in each level. A plaque and banner will be presented to the teams winning a provincial championship.

F2.28 For recreational teams, the association(s) will provide league championship banners to the top team in each level.

F2.29 Female players who are playing high school hockey shall be permitted to register in female hockey.

F2.30 Players who are playing hockey with a Hockey Canada Accredited School (HCAS) shall not be permitted to register in female hockey [FC Policy F2.30 - Hockey Canada Accredited Schools].

F2.31 All Hockey Nova Scotia registered teams competing for provincial championships must play in all scheduled preseason, regular season, and playoff games unless otherwise approved by their Regional Director or Conference Coordinator. Failure to comply may result in sanctions against the team [FC Policy F2.31 - Provincial Championships].

F2.32 Hockey Nova Scotia promotes fair play and sportspersonship at all levels of competition, therefore at the conclusion of each game, unless otherwise directed by the referee, all players and coaches are to shake hands.

F2.33 Teams are only permitted to play against other teams registered at the same division and level. 118

Back to Contents

Regulation F3: Classification

F3.1 A player’s age is determined for the current season by the player’s age on December 31 of the current season. Players must be four years of age prior to January 1 of the current season to register with Hockey Nova Scotia. Players shall not have reached the higher nominal age for the division in which they are registered before January 1 of the current playing year.

F3.2 Female Council shall have sole discretion in classifying teams under its jurisdiction in accordance with Hockey Canada Regulations. Such determination shall be made in December of the playing year. The following divisions and categories shall normally be recognized:

• U22 AA, C Female: Open to players of nominal ages 18-21

• Major U18, U18 AA, A, C: Open to players of nominal ages 15-17

• U15 AAA, AA, C: Open to players of nominal ages 13-14

• U13 AAA, AA, C: Open to players of nominal ages 11-12

• U11 AA, A, C: Open to players of nominal ages 9-10

• U9: Open to players of nominal ages 7-8

• U7: Open to players of nominal ages 4-6

F3.3 The number of representative players registered by an association within a division will determine the number of teams at each level at the start of each season [FC Policy F3.3 - Matrix]. If an association makes a request to their Regional Director at the start of the season to play at the highest level without meeting the required numbers, it may be permitted at the discretion of the Female Council.

F3.4 An association may register more than one team in the same classification within a division. These teams must be made up of players balanced in skill, ability, and of mixed ages within the division.

F3.5 The final placement of teams into classifications is the responsibility of the Female Council and should reflect the teams’ demonstrated ability to compete at the assigned level of competition. Placements will take place by December of each year.

F3.6 Players may not be released to a lower classification team, except under Hockey Canada transfer rules, after December 1 of the playing year.

Back to Contents

Regulation F4: Residency

F4.1 It shall be the obligation/responsibility of Hockey Nova Scotia under the authority of Hockey Canada, in its sole and unfettered discretion, to implement residency registration regulations for the formation of teams within its boundaries. The residency regulation must allow for increased movement of players as the age of the player increases.

F4.2 Players must play in the branch where their parent(s)/court appointed guardian(s) reside.

F4.3 Residence is established by the following criteria:

1. The parents’ usual residence when the parents live in the same house, or if one of the parents is deceased, the usual residence of the surviving parent.

2. In cases where parents do not live in the same residence, the legal residence is the usual residence of the parent having legal custody of the player; or if both parents have legal custody, the usual residence of the parent with whom the player usually lives; or again, if the player lives equally with both parents, their place of residence shall be determined by Hockey Nova Scotia.

3. When legal custody has been granted to a third person, residency is the usual residence of that person.

Note: The term “usual residence” is defined as four (4) out of seven (7) days. Note: In the application of the above, the term “legal custody” and/or “legal guardian” refers to the granting of custody as determined by a court of law in one of the following circumstances:

a. The application of the Divorce Act

b. In the case of an order enforcing or recognizing a legal separation agreement c. Loss of parental authority

d. When it is deemed the child’s development is compromised

e. When both (2) parents are deceased

f. Married or the equivalent of married

F4.4 The eligibility of a player who moves without parent(s) and establishes a continuous habitual residence with someone other than their parent(s) as defined in Hockey Canada’s Regulation C. Players – Residential Qualifications, shall be determined by Hockey Nova Scotia based on:

1. Where the player’s parent(s) reside,

2. Where the player goes to school; and

3. The amount of time spent in the alleged place of residence.

F4.5 In the case of a player who establishes a residence, other than that as described in 4.3 above, for the purpose of attending a private or public school, the player will be eligible to play at the highest level as it applies to U11, U13, U15, or U18.

F4.6 Hockey Nova Scotia, in its sole and unfettered discretion under powers invested in Hockey Canada Bylaw 12, may on application to Hockey Nova Scotia by or on behalf of any player:

1. Deem such player to be resident in a place within Hockey Nova Scotia other than that where their parent is resident and Hockey Nova Scotia’s decision in this regard shall be final and binding.

2. Deem a non-Canadian citizen to be a resident in Hockey Nova Scotia provided that the player is in strict accordance with Hockey Canada Regulations H.1., H.2., and H.3.

F4.7 Any player who is in doubt regarding their residential status and whether they are permitted to compete in sanctioned games may request in writing a definite ruling of their status from their Regional Director. This also applies to an association contesting the residence of a player. If the player or association do not agree with the decision of the Regional Director, a request to review may be made through the Conference Coordinator to the Female Council Executive. Once the teams have been classified for provincial playoffs, no ruling or appeal of a ruling can be made regarding the residence of a player.

F4.8 If 19 players or fewer have been registered in a division of hockey within their association and there are not enough players to form two (2) teams, the players who do not make the team can, with the approval of the applicable Regional Directors, move to an association that is offering the same level of hockey. Any player wishing to move from one region to another must be recommended by the Regional Director to the Female Council Executive. The recommendation must have the approval of both Regional Directors involved.

F4.9 In the event a player moves during the season and establishes a legitimate habitual residence in another regional boundary prior to January 10th in any year, then such player may:

1. Continue to play with their current team for the remainder of that season only.

2. Play with a team for which they are eligible by reason of their new residence, with written approval from the Regional Director.

F4.10 The onus of proof to establish habitual residence rests entirely with the player/parent(s) - guardian(s). Documentation from the player’s school would serve as proof of residence (power and phone bills are excluded).

F4.11 A player who is absent from home, is registered, and is in attendance at a residential school where at least 75% of the students reside away from the home of the parent, may at their discretion play for a female hockey team where their home is situated or with a team where the school is located. The player must signify their decision in writing to Hockey Nova Scotia’s Executive Director at the time hockeynovascotia.ca of player registration. Should they choose to play for a team where the school is located, the player will be eligible to play at the highest level as it applies to U11, U13, U15, or U18.

F4.12 Situations enabling players to compete on a team in an association other than that for which they qualify under residential regulations, are exceptions and will not be permitted unless the proper process is followed, and written approvals are granted.

F4.13 Female Council has the right in its discretion to refuse player movement from one association to another within Hockey Nova Scotia, even when authorization has been obtained from the home association.

Where a release is required under Hockey Canada regulations for a player from an association or Major U18 Female team for an interbranch transfer, such release must be attained through application to the Hockey Canada Registry and approved by the Executive Director or their designate.

Back to Contents

Regulation F5: Registration

F5.1 All players and team officials must annually register with Hockey Nova Scotia by submitting the appropriate forms and remitting the required registration to their Regional Director, league, or Hockey Nova Scotia office. All insurance and registration fees must be remitted to the Hockey Nova Scotia office within the required time frames.

“Registration” or “registered” refers to the official acceptance by Hockey Nova Scotia, or designate, of a Hockey Canada Registration Certificate, Team Registration Form, Nominal List, or data entered on the Hockey Canada Registry. All associations must also have directors and officers insurance (D&O insurance).

F5.2 Players registered as goaltenders on:

1. Representative teams may play only goal. Goaltenders must be clearly identified on the Hockey Canada Registry at U15 and U18.

2. Recreational teams do not require goaltenders to be identified as such on the Hockey Canada Registry.

F5.3 Players may only sign/register with one representative team unless released by the team first signed with prior to January 10. Players signing with more than one team without a release could be suspended.

F5.4 Players registered on female representative teams are also permitted to register, within the same association, on one (1) female recreational team with the approval of the Regional Director.

F5.5 Players previously registered in another branch/province must complete an interbranch transfer prior to registering with an association for the current season. Refer to Hockey Canada Regulation H. Transfers regarding transfers. A letter must be produced from the parent(s)/guardian(s) that verifies qualifications under Hockey Canada Regulations that a player has moved with parent(s)/guardian(s). The final date for processing interbranch transfers is February 10. Reference FC Regulation F22.7 for playoff eligibility.

F5.6 All players and team officials in U11 AA, U13 AAA, U15 AAA, and U18 AA must be registered on rosters approved by the Regional Director prior to participating in any game prior to October 15. The registration date for all other divisions/teams, excluding U7 and U9, is October 31. The registration date for U7 and U9 is November 15. The final date to register a team to be eligible for provincial championships is December 1, unless otherwise determined by Female Council. In all cases, rosters must be entered into the Hockey Canada Registry before any league game takes place.

F5.7 All players are required to be listed on either representative or recreational rosters. Representative teams are identified in FC Regulation F1.33. Recreational teams cannot enter provincial championships.

F5.8 The final date to register for a representative team shall be February 10 of the current season.

F5.9 Female Council shall be responsible to the Hockey Nova Scotia Board of Directors for managing the affairs of all female hockey activities (excluding female players registered under Minor Hockey Council on the Hockey Canada Registry, wherein such responsibility shall be that of Hockey Nova Scotia) in accordance with Hockey Nova Scotia bylaws, rules, and policies approved by Hockey Nova Scotia.

F5.10 Female hockey shall be comprised of Female Hockey Associations and Female Regional Executive Committees that conduct and supervise female hockey (excluding female players registered under Minor Hockey Council on the Hockey Canada Registry) within their respective boundaries. No independent clubs or leagues will be accepted from towns, cities, or areas having a local Female Hockey Association or Female Regional Executive Committees.

Back to Contents

Regulation F6: Affiliation

F6.1 Purpose: To provide an opportunity for higher Division or category teams to dress the maximum number of players allowable for a game in accordance with the playing rules. The first priority for an affiliate player to a higher-level team is to their regular registered team, unless approved by the player’s regular coach.

F6.2 Teams will use the club system of affiliation:

1. A club system is defined as the movement of players within an association. This movement shall only be to a team in a higher division/category.

2. A player of a team of a lower division or level of the same club may affiliate to a team or teams of higher divisions and levels at any time, to a maximum of ten (10) games per season. However, if the player’s registered team completes its regular season and playoffs before the player’s affiliated team or teams, the player may thereafter affiliate an unlimited number of times.

Exhibition and tournament games, which are not part of preseason, regular season, or playoff games, are excluded from the maximum of ten (10) games per season. Goaltender exceptions:

a. Goaltenders who affiliate but do not play will not have the game count against the maximum ten (10) restriction (HC Regulation F.15.e).

b. Goaltenders may be used as an affiliate, in exception to F6.2, and will only be permitted to play if the rostered goaltender is injured and cannot return to the ice or is ejected from the game. If they are not used in the game, it will not count against the maximum of ten (10) games per season.

3. Affiliation is in place for the current playing season.

4. Teams attending Atlantic or national events may affiliate players using the club system to get to the maximum number of players based on the event affiliation limits. Affiliate players must be from a lower division or category.

F6.3 Recreational players can affiliate, with Regional Director approval, to the lowest level representative team. Players must be age appropriate to the team to which they are affiliated.

Affiliation (Female)

Major U18 Female U18 AA | U18 A | U15 AAA

U18 AA U18 A | U15 AA

U18 A U18 C | U15 A

U18 C U15 C

U15 AAA U15 AA | U13 AAA

U15 AA U15 A | U13 AA

U15 A U15 C | U13 A

U15 C U13 C

U13 AAA U13 AA | U13 A

U13 AA U13 A | U13 C | U11 AA

U13 A U13 C | U11 A

U13 C U11 C

U11 AA U11 A

U11 A U11 C

U11 C As approved by HNSFC

F6.4 General Affiliation Regulations for Female Hockey as defined in F6.2 above are applicable.

1. Movement of players is restricted as follows:

• Teams cannot pull affiliates from a higher-level team in a division below.

• Due to the mixed nature of some C teams, affiliation must be age appropriate.

• In associations where multiple levels do not exist for affiliation, teams may, with Female Council approval, affiliate from the next team available, regardless of level, without skipping a division. i.e. U15 AA may affiliate from U13 AAA where U13 AA does not exist.

2. At no time may a player skip a division for the purpose of affiliation.

3. Only players registered on a team registration form, and approved by the Regional Director, may advance to a team of a higher division or level for the purpose of affiliation.

4. Higher division/category teams must attain consent from the lower division/ category team prior to using an affiliate player. Failure to comply may result in the suspension of the offending team’s head coach.

5. A maximum of three affiliates may be used by one team within one game.

6. Teams may use players from any combination of teams allowed within their club system affiliation.

7. Players registered with female hockey are not permitted to affiliate to a Hockey Canada Accredited School.

Back to Contents

Regulation F7: Permits

F7.1 Travel permits are required by any team wishing to play outside their region.

F7.2 Exhibition permits are required by any team hosting a game that is not part of a league schedule.

F7.3 Permits for travel within Canada are requested through the Hockey Canada Registry (HCR) and are reviewed and processed by the Regional Director.

a. To request a travel permit, the person requesting it must be registered with the team (for example, as a team manager or coach), must have an HCR account, and must be rostered with the team. If the team's roster is not yet complete on the HCR, contact the Regional Director for the appropriate procedure.

b. Travel permits are pre-approved. A permit will show as “pending” on the HCR until the Regional Director approves it; teams are not required to wait for the permit to show as approved.

c. If a permit is rejected, contact the Minor Council or Female Council Regional Director.

Instructions for setting up an HCR account are posted on the HNS website.

F7.4 Permits for travel to the United States are obtained from the branch through the Hockey Nova Scotia Executive Director. Application should be made two months in advance.

F7.5 Permits for overseas travel are obtained from Hockey Canada by application through the Hockey Nova Scotia Executive Director. Application must be made by May 1 preceding the season in which the travel is planned.

F7.6 Permits will only be issued for sanctioned tournaments or exhibition games. It is the responsibility of the team to ensure that any games or tournaments played in are sanctioned by the Hockey Canada branch in whose jurisdiction they wish to play.

F7.7 Teams at the U7 and U9 levels shall not be permitted to travel outside the province of Nova Scotia.

F7.8 Teams at the U11 level shall only be permitted to travel outside the province twice per season.

F7.9 Failure to comply with this regulation will result in refusal of future tournament sanction permits.

F7.10 Permits are required for tournaments hosted by associations under Female Council to satisfy the sanction requirements of Hockey Canada.

F7.11 Permits to host a tournament are obtained from the Regional Director. There is no fee for these permits. Two weeks’ notice is required [see Hockey Nova Scotia Tournament/Jamboree Application Form Female].

F7.12 Permits for tournaments involving teams from other provinces (interbranch tournaments) are obtained from Hockey Nova Scotia’s Executive Director. There is no fee for these permits. Two months’ notice is required.

F7.13 Permits for tournaments involving teams from other countries (international tournaments) are obtained from Hockey Canada by application through Hockey Nova Scotia’s Executive Director. The fee is established by Hockey Canada and depends on the number of out-of-country teams. Application must be made by May 1, preceding the season in which the tournament is planned.

F7.14 Any association, league, or team hosting teams from outside the province shall be responsible to notify Hockey Nova Scotia’s Executive Director as to the arrival and departure dates of such teams, as well as the teams they will be playing and the name and address of the president of the branch that the visiting team is from.

F7.15 All tournament hosts are required to submit a post tournament summary including teams that participated, scores of games, and a detailed financial statement of income and disbursements to the Female Council within 30 days of the completion of the tournament.

F7.16 Tournaments for the U9 level may not include the retention and posting of statistics, the selection of all-star teams or awards, the selection of most-valuable players or awards, and shall not include championship games or any other format that declares a winner. Officials of female tournaments are not permitted to interpret or change suspensions to player(s) or team officials. If any questions arise regarding the code of discipline or regulations, the tournament chair must refer these to the appropriate level of authority with the appropriate council (i.e. Regional Director, Conference Coordinator, or Chair).

Back to Contents

Regulation F8: Exhibition Games and Tournaments

F8.1 No team shall be permitted to participate in any interbranch games of any kind without permission of the Hockey Nova Scotia President or designate. All requests must be submitted in writing to the appropriate Regional Director, Council Chair, or the Executive Director of Hockey Nova Scotia at least 10 days prior to the event.

F8.2 Exhibition games with professional clubs may be arranged with permission of Hockey Canada and the President of Hockey Nova Scotia upon such terms and conditions as may be designated by Hockey Canada.

F8.3 Sanctioning for all tournaments under the jurisdiction of Hockey Nova Scotia must be obtained in accordance with this regulation.

F8.4 Application for sanctioning must be submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia’s Executive Director, in writing indicating the date, location, committee chair, and category of tournament (Hockey Nova Scotia, interbranch, or international) applied for. Application for international tournaments must be submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia 90 days prior to the event. Application for Hockey Nova Scotia and interbranch tournaments must be submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia 60 days prior to the event.

F8.5 All applications for tournament sanctioning must include a detailed budget and be endorsed by the president of the association applying to host the event who is a voting member of the tournament committee, or their designate.

F8.6 Once approved, Hockey Nova Scotia’s Executive Director shall issue a Tournament Sanction Permit with one copy forwarded to Hockey Canada, one copy forwarded to the tournament host, and one copy retained by Hockey Nova Scotia on file.

F8.7 Hockey Canada and Hockey Nova Scotia must sanction international tournaments. All international teams (excluding teams from USA Hockey) must have written permission from their respective federation and approval from Hockey Canada to participate in any Hockey Canada/Hockey Nova Scotia sanctioned international tournament.

F8.8 All games must be officiated by Hockey Nova Scotia registered officials and must be played under official Hockey Canada playing rules. The only variance to the official Hockey Canada playing rules will be those that are in effect or approved by Hockey Nova Scotia at the time of application.

F8.9 All exhibition games and tournaments must be approved by the appropriate Regional Director.

F8.10 Any Tournament Sanction Permit may be withdrawn if it is found that Hockey Canada or Hockey Nova Scotia regulations pertaining to such tournaments are not being followed.

F8.11 Subsequent permits may not be issued to any tournament host who has been found to conduct an unsanctioned tournament or one that has not conformed to Hockey Canada/Hockey Nova Scotia regulations.

F8.12 The tournament chair is responsible for submitting to Hockey Nova Scotia a financial statement of income and disbursements within 30 days of the completion of the tournament. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in refusal of future Tournament Sanction Permits.

F8.13 Hockey Nova Scotia shall appoint a branch representative for all sanctioned branch tournaments. The branch representative shall serve on the host committee as an ex-officio member responsible for ensuring the tournament is conducted in accordance with Hockey Canada/Hockey.

F8.14 Associations granted an international or interbranch tournament permit shall sign a contract with Hockey Nova Scotia agreeing to abide by playing rules and regulations of Female Council and shall report all penalties and suspensions daily to the appropriate persons.

Back to Contents

Regulation F9: Game Reports

F9.1 In any game in which a match penalty has been assessed, under Hockey Nova Scotia Rule 9.6(a), (b), or (c) from the Hockey Nova Scotia Code of Discipline and Minimum Suspensions, the game report is to be forwarded to the Hockey Nova Scotia President or their designate. Upon receipt of the game report in relation to Hockey Nova Scotia Rule 9.6, it will be forwarded to the appropriate council chair for investigation and action.

F9.2 Game reports for preseason, exhibition, regular season, playoff, and tournaments shall be completed in triplicate for all games played and are to be clearly legible and must contain the following: date of game, division and level of play, location of game, names of both teams competing, travel permit number, and any other important information. Officials must count the number of skaters and goaltenders on the ice and bench and compare this to the players listed on the game sheet prior to the start of the game.

• Copies shall be distributed as follows within seven days of the date of the game:

i. Original - to the responsible authority for the game or designate - collected by the home association.

ii. 2nd copy - to the visiting team

iii. 3rd copy - to the home team

• Score and game sheet reporting to be completed within 48 hours by the home team using the Female Council score reporting process [FC Policy F9.2 - Game Reports DRAFT].

F9.3 Any team playing outside of the province must submit the game sheet to the Regional Director who will use the Female Council game sheet recording process within two days upon the return of the team. There must be one game sheet for each game played.

F9.4 Any regularly registered players who are not in the arena at the start of the game but may be arriving late should be discussed with the referee and the opposing coach and added to the game sheet when they arrive. The late arriving player should be noted on the game sheet with the abbreviation LA for late arrival.

Back to Contents

Regulation F10: Protective Equipment/Insurance/Safety

F10.1 All players will wear protective equipment as indicated in the Hockey Canada playing rules. As of the 2019-2020 hockey season, all teams below Junior A will be required to wear full facial protection.

F10.2 All coaches and assistants must wear a CSA certified helmet, properly fastened, while on the ice conducting practice.

F10.3 Hockey Nova Scotia is a full participant in the Hockey Canada insurance program, which includes liability, death and dismemberment, and major medical insurance. It is mandatory for all registered teams and leagues to participate in the program.

F10.4 Hockey Nova Scotia is a full participant in directors and officers liability Insurance through Hockey Canada. It is mandatory for all associations to participate in the program.

F10.5 The STOP crest is mandatory on all game jerseys for all players participating within Hockey Nova Scotia. The STOP crest is to be worn on the back of the game jersey, in the centre directly above the number and below the name of the player.

Back to Contents

Regulation F11: Certification Requirements

F11.1 All coaches, including assistants, in representative divisions within Hockey Nova Scotia must be certified at the minimum NCCP Development 1 level. All head coaches at the Major U18 Female level within Hockey Nova Scotia must be certified at the NCCP High Performance 1 level. See the full requirements on the Hockey Nova Scotia website – Volunteer Requirements.

F11.2 All instructors in the U7 division are to be certified in the Intro Coach Program.

F11.3 All coaches in the U9 division are to be certified in the Intro Coach Program.

F11.4 All coaches in recreational divisions must be certified in the minimum Intro Coach Program or former U7 program. NCCP Development I is acceptable for recreational coaches.

F11.5 All bench staff in AAA, AA, and A divisions at all levels must be certified in the Hockey Canada Safety Program (HCSP). Bench staff includes the head coach, assistant coaches, and trainer.

F11.6 All teams in recreational divisions must have at least one member of the bench staff certified in the HCSP. Bench staff includes the head coach, assistant coaches, and trainer. All U7 programs and U9 teams/groupings must have at least one coach or instructor certified in the HCSP.

F11.7 It is recommended that all teams have at least one member of the bench staff seek certification at the Hockey Canada Safety Program Level II. HCSP Level II is available to individuals who hold current certification in first aid and CPR from a recognized agency. HCSP Level II is provided once an individual provides proof of certification. There is no training clinic for this certification.

F11.8 All associations must appoint a development coordinator by September 15 annually.

F11.9 Associations must check certifications and verify that all bench staff are properly certified by November 15 of each hockey season. The deadline for certification each season will be December 1 and any submissions for bench staff without certification after December 1 will not be accepted for provincial playdowns. No additional clinics will be conducted beyond this date.

F11.10 A list of all association coaches, assistants, trainers, and managers must be submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia by October 15 of each season. The date for U7 and U9 is November 15. All coaches, including assistants, trainers, and managers, shall have completed the Speak Out or The Shift Forward course by December 1.

F11.11 All Hockey Nova Scotia registered bench staff, dressing room supervisors, and on-ice officials must complete the screening process as outlined in the Hockey Nova Scotia Screening Policy. Coaches/team officials and supervisors/on-ice officials must complete an initial Vulnerable Sector Verification (VSV) which includes a Canadian Criminal Records Check/Local Police Check through the local police or a third-party provider within 30 days of an individual’s involvement with any on-ice or off-ice activity within any association, team, or league. Any member as mentioned in this regulation, having been convicted, or having charges pending, of a criminal offence in any jurisdiction, shall complete a Hockey Canada Screening Disclosure Form and submit it directly to Hockey Nova Scotia, prior to participating in any Hockey Nova Scotia activity. The responsibility lies with all associations, leagues, and teams to ensure that all named participants have completed the process as outlined in the Hockey Nova Scotia Screening Policy by December 1 of the current playing season.

F11.12 A minimum of two certified bench staff must be on the bench to start any game.

F11.13 Any team official who is found to be in violation of any section of Regulation Eleven will be suspended indefinitely until certification for that official has been approved by Hockey Nova Scotia and it has been added to the Hockey Canada Registry. The minimum suspension for a first offence is five [5] games, a second offence will result in the team official being suspended for one full calendar year. Hockey Nova Scotia, Hockey Nova Scotia Minor Council, and Hockey Nova Scotia Female Council reserve the right to lengthen these suspensions depending on the circumstances involved in each violation.

F11.14 Any team official previously registered on the Hockey Canada Registry with any team who was not approved due to lack of the following: The Shift Forward, Criminal Records Check (CRC) and Vulnerable Sector Verification (VSV) will not be eligible to be registered with any team until these are obtained. This includes on-ice or off-ice activities. This regulation does not include team officials who have been approved in the past but whose CRC/VSV have expired. These team officials must obtain their renewals prior to December 1.

Back to Contents

Regulation F12: Fees

F12.1 The annual fees shall be determined by the Hockey Nova Scotia Board of Directors and approved by the eligible voting delegates at the Hockey Nova Scotia Annual General Meeting (AGM). Once approved, the schedule of annual fees shall be distributed by the Hockey Nova Scotia Executive Director, or designate, to the membership by way of information bulletin. Any member failing to pay such fees within the time prescribed shall forfeit the right to take part in playoffs, or tournaments, or to compete against member associations.

F12.2 In addition to fees established by Hockey Nova Scotia, Female Council shall be responsible for setting their own fees to fund their annual operating budget which shall be communicated to associations at the Hockey Nova Scotia AGM Female Congress.

F12.3 All annual fees for member registration are due and payable upon registration by the applicable member according to the dates specified by Hockey Nova Scotia.

F12.4 Association member teams shall pay an annual membership fee as determined by the Hockey Nova Scotia Board of Directors.

Back to Contents

Regulation F13: Protests/Appeals

F13.1 In the event of any dispute, difference, or question regarding any matter of any kind arising at any time and only where there is provided a right to appeal per bylaws, rules and regulations of Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada, a protest or appeal will be the recourse available to any member dissatisfied with a decision.

F13.2 Upon receipt of a protest or appeal in the Hockey Nova Scotia office, the President of Hockey Nova Scotia, or designate, will determine if the appeal or protest meets the requirements herein and if it does, will direct the Hockey Nova Scotia Appeals Committee to proceed with the hearing.

F13.3 A cash payment or certified cheque in the amount of three hundred dollars ($300.00) and a nonrefundable administrative fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) for a total of three hundred and fifty dollars ($350.00), made payable to Hockey Nova Scotia, shall accompany all protests and appeals.

F13.4 No protest or appeal will be entertained if the fee is not included.

F13.5 The President of Hockey Nova Scotia will determine the appropriate level of appeal and their decision in this determination will be final.

F13.6 Having completed all points of appeal within Hockey Nova Scotia, the aggrieved may appeal to Hockey Canada if not satisfied with the decision per Hockey Canada Regulation XI. Dispute Resolution, assuming all requirements have been met.

Protests

F13.7 Protests may only be made regarding interpretations of rules, bylaws, regulations, rules of competition, and constitutional matters, not in regard to the decision of a referee or linesperson.

F13.8 A verbal protest must be made by the captain of the aggrieved team to the referee at the first reasonable opportunity after the action or decision complained of, and in all cases must be made within 5 minutes of the close of the period in which such action or decision was made and same must be noted immediately on the official game report.

Female Hockey Protests - Provincial Championship Tournaments

1. Protests to tournament chairs shall follow the procedure laid down in the tournament rules.

2. Protests to Regional Directors and Conference Coordinators shall follow the procedures laid down herein.

3. Decisions on protests to Regional Directors, Conference Coordinators, and the Chair of Female Council during provincial tournaments, shall be final and binding.

Appeals

F13.9 Any member wishing to file an appeal on any matter may

1. Written protests must be forwarded to the responsible authority as follows:

a. Chair of Female Council, or their designate, for preseason, regular season, and playoff games within sanctioned leagues.

b. Tournament chairs for invitational tournament games.

c. Regional Directors for exhibition games.

d. Conference Coordinators for conference playoffs.

e. Chair of Female Council, or their designate, for provincial championship tournaments.

F13.10 Have its request processed by Hockey Nova Scotia, where:

1. Any appeals of the bylaws and/or regulations of Hockey Nova Scotia or Hockey Canada must first have been dealt with at the appropriate level (league, council, etc.)

2. Such decision or dispute conflicts with the bylaws and/or regulations and rules of Hockey Nova Scotia or Hockey Canada.

3. A procedural error was committed.

4. The original decision was not within the party’s authority or jurisdiction.

5. The local association does not have their own appeals process.

a. here is no fee when using F13.10.5.

F13.11 An appeal shall:

1. Be brought within 48 hours of receipt of the written decision.

2. Be in writing.

3. Describe the error or grounds for appeal, which provide the Hockey Nova Scotia Appeals Committee with jurisdiction under Regulation F13.10.

4. Describe, in numbered paragraphs, the decision appealed from, the grounds for appeal, and relevant facts. Pertinent documents, if any, should be attached and the appellants may not introduce any new information and the original protest must accompany the appeal.

5. Be filed, with proof of delivery to the Manager of Member Services, together with the required fee ($350.00) per Regulation F13.3.

F13.12 The Hockey Nova Scotia President or designate shall:

1. Determine, within seven days of receipt of the appeal, whether Hockey Nova Scotia has jurisdiction to hear the appeal and that the requirements of Regulation F13.11 have been met.

2. Notify appellants within seven days of receipt of the appeal if the requirements of Regulation 13.11 have been met.

3. If the requirements of Regulation F13.11 have been met, instruct the appeals committee or chair of applicable division to convene a hearing within 14 days of the receipt of the appeal.

4. If the requirements of Regulation F13.11 have been met, notify the appellants in writing of the decision, not more than 48 hours after the appeals hearing has convened. Registration Appeals

F13.13 An appeal may be filed with Hockey Nova Scotia in disputes involving:

1. A refusal by a team or association to release a player for purposes of playing with another team in accordance with Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada regulations.

2. Any dispute over a ruling of residency by a Regional Director.

F13.14 A cash payment or certified cheque in the amount of three hundred dollars ($300.00) and a nonrefundable administrative fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) for a total of three hundred and fifty dollars ($350.00), made payable to Hockey Nova Scotia, shall accompany all protests and appeals.

F13.15 No registration appeal will be entertained if the appeal fee is not included.

F13.16 Registration appeals are to be forwarded to the Manager of Member Services.

F13.17 All pertinent documentation must be forwarded to the Manager of Member Services and copied to the Chair of Female Council proving the residency of the player. No documentation will be accepted for the purpose of the appeal hearing following the seven-day period or entertained at a hearing if convened.

F13.18 The appellant must clearly request an “in-person” hearing if desired. Failure to do so will forfeit the appellant’s right to present “in person”. In the event such a request is not made, a conference call may be conducted.

F13.19 On receipt of such an appeal, the Manager of Member Services will:

1. Within 24 hours provide an electronic copy of the appeal requesting a rebuttal to the Regional Director, the association to which the Regional Director has determined eligibility, and the association to which the player wishes to register.

2. If such a rebuttal is not received within 48 hours of receipt of the request from the Manager of Member Services, the parties shall lose their right to make a rebuttal.

3. Within 24 hours of receipt of rebuttals, send the information to the Hockey Nova Scotia President.

F13.20 On receipt of all documentation from the Manager of Member Services, the Hockey Nova Scotia President shall:

1. Within 48 hours, appoint a committee to convene a hearing to be chaired by the Vice President of Hockey Operations.

2. Set a date for a hearing or conference call that will be convened no later than seven days from the receipt of information.

F13.21 The Vice President of Hockey Operations shall report to the Hockey Nova Scotia President for approval the findings of the committee and recommendation within 24 hours of completion of the hearing.

F13.22 Written notice of the decision shall be forwarded from the Hockey Nova Scotia President within 48 hours of receipt of the committee report and recommendation.

F13.23 The timelines shall not be in effect from May 1 to August 31 of each year. Should an appeal be made within that time, a decision will be rendered by September 1 of the current season.

F13.24 The next level of appeal for registration appeals is to Hockey Canada per Hockey Canada Regulation XI. Dispute Resolution.

Board Decisions - Final and Binding

F13.25 Any recourse to the courts of any jurisdiction by any member, before all rights of appeal and all the rights and remedies of the bylaws and regulations of Hockey Nova Scotia have been exhausted, shall be deemed to be a violation and breach of the bylaws and regulations of Hockey Nova Scotia. This violation and breach shall result in the automatic indefinite suspension of such member from Hockey Nova Scotia, including all activities and games played under the jurisdiction of Hockey Nova Scotia or any of its members as defined herein.

F13.26 Any member, association, club, league, team, player, coach, manager, trainer, or referee who has sought court action before exhausting all proper procedures of appeal shall be liable for all legal costs and disbursement incurred by Hockey Nova Scotia.

F13.27 Until full legal costs are paid, at the discretion of the President of Hockey Nova Scotia, the right of membership of the said party will be suspended.

F13.28 Any member, association, club, league, team, player, coach, manager, trainer, or referee who, having exhausted the appeal procedures, proceeds with court action will be liable for all legal costs and disbursements incurred by Hockey Nova Scotia, should the courts rule in favour of Hockey Nova Scotia, prior to reinstatement of said party’s membership with Hockey Nova Scotia.

Back to Contents

Regulation F14: Amendments

F14.1 Amendments, alterations, or additions to regulations in Hockey Nova Scotia’s handbook can be made by the directors of the board at a regular or special meeting by a “special resolution,” that is, a resolution passed by not less than a two-thirds majority of the Board of Directors of which notice specifying the intention to propose the resolution as a special resolution has been duly given.

Back to Contents

Regulation F15: Standing Committees and Council

F15.1 Female Council

1. Female Council shall be responsible to the Hockey Nova Scotia Board of Directors for managing the affairs of all female hockey activities (excluding elite programs, leagues, High Performance Programs, and Canada Games wherein such responsibility shall be that of Hockey Nova Scotia) in accordance with Hockey Nova Scotia/Hockey Canada rules, regulations, bylaws, and special regulations adopted by Female Council and approved by Hockey Nova Scotia. Female Council shall consist of the following members:

a. Council Chair

b. Two Conference Coordinators

c. Six Regional Directors

2. The Female Council Chair shall be a member of the Hockey Nova Scotia Board of Directors and the official Hockey Nova Scotia representative on the Hockey Canada Female Council.

3. At each Female Council meeting, each member shall have one vote, with the Chair only voting in case of a tie. A quorum at Female Council meetings shall consist of the majority of voting members entitled to be present. The Chair of Female Council shall call Female Council meetings.

4. Other delegates from associations, leagues, and teams may attend Female Council meetings as observers only with the right to speak being granted at the sole discretion of the Chair.

5. Female Council Executive

a. The day-to-day operation of Female Council will be the responsibility of:

ii. Chair of Female Council

iii. Female North Conference Coordinator

iv. Female South Conference Coordinator

6. All members of the Female Council shall follow conflict of interest guidelines set out by Hockey Nova Scotia Bylaw Twelve - Conflict of Interest.

7. Should a vacancy arise on the Female Council the position may be filled by the Advisory Committee until the next annual meeting.

8. Female Council Regional Directors

a. Regional Directors must be a resident of the zone they represent and be elected by the members of the zone at the Female Council’s annual meeting. Nominations for the position of Regional Director must be received by the Hockey Nova Scotia Executive Director or designate no later than thirty (30) days prior to the Hockey Nova Scotia AGM Female Congress.

b. When two or more are nominated for any office, and all but one declines to serve, that one shall be considered to have been elected. Should more than one ballot be necessary for the election of a Regional Director, the name receiving the fewest votes shall be removed from the ballot before proceeding to another ballot.

• These positions are currently appointed, but they will become elected positions once seven (7) Female Hockey Associations are present within the branch.

9. Powers & Duties

a. The duties of the Regional Directors shall be to carry out the day-to-day functions of their regions in conjunction with the Female Council Chair and shall include:

i. Hold regional meetings.

ii. Supervise provincial championship tournaments or series taking place within the province.

iii. To be the liaison between the Female Council and associations in their region.

iv. To issue team registration forms and other registration materials to associations in their region.

v. To receive, check, and forward Hockey Canada Playing Certificates and Female Council Team Lists to the Hockey Nova Scotia Executive Director for approval; classify teams for provincial playoffs.

vi. Receive requests for travel permits and issue same to teams travelling or playing exhibition games in Nova Scotia.

vii. To assist in solving disputes between local associations in their region.

viii. Ensure the boundaries for associations within their region are clearly defined by August 1 of each year, permitting no change from that date until the end of the playing season.

b. Directors may appoint assistants as they feel is required provided prior approval is obtained from the Hockey Nova Scotia Female Council Executive Committee. Such assistants shall be recognized by the Hockey Nova Scotia Executive Committee when their name and address is filed by letter with the Hockey Nova Scotia Executive Director. These letters will be authorized by and bear the Regional Director’s signature. Assistants will have such powers as the Regional Director permits in their name but may not sit or vote on the Female Council.

10. There shall be two (2) Conference Coordinators to coordinate the activities of their respective conference:

a. The Northern Conference (comprised of the Fundy Highland, Quad County, and Cape Breton regions).

b. The Southern Conference (comprised of the Metro West, Metro East, Valley, and Western regions).

c. Conference Coordinators must be a resident of the conference they coordinate and be elected by the members of the conference at the Female Council’s annual meeting. Nominations for the position of Conference Coordinator must be received by the Hockey Nova Scotia Executive Director or designate no later than thirty (30) days prior to the Hockey Nova Scotia AGM Female Congress.

d. When two or more nominated for any office, and all but one declines to serve, that one shall be considered to have been elected. Should more than one ballot be necessary for the election of a Conference Coordinator, the name receiving the fewest votes shall be removed from the ballot before proceeding to another ballot.

• These positions are currently appointed, but they will become elected positions once seven (7) Female Hockey Associations are present within the branch.

e. Conference Coordinators shall preside over conference meetings and regional elections, attend regional meetings when requested to do so by the Regional Director, coordinate interregional playoffs within their conference, coordinate categorization of all teams within their conference, and if requested by the Executive Committee, shall be a signing officer of the Female Council.

11. Conference structures shall be as follows:

a. North Conference Structure:

i. Cape Breton Region - consists of industrial Cape Breton.

ii. Fundy Highland Region - consists of Pictou County, Colchester County, and Cumberland County.

iii. Quad County Region - consists of Antigonish, Canso, Strait-Richmond, and Cape Breton West.

South Conference Structure

i. Metro West Region - consists of Halifax, TASA, Chebucto, Bedford, and Sackville.

ii. Metro East Region - consists of Dartmouth, Cole Harbour, Eastern Shore, and East Hants.

iii. Western Region - consists of Yarmouth, Shelburne, South Shore, Queen’s County, and Chester.

iv. Valley Region - consists of West Hants, Acadia, Clare/Digby, and Western Valley.

Note: Players from Clare/Digby have the option of playing in the Valley or Western Region. The player must make this request through the Regional Director for Valley if they wish to play in the Western Region.

F15.2 The Chair of Female Council shall be responsible to the Board of Directors of Hockey Nova Scotia through the President and shall:

1. Sit on the Hockey Nova Scotia Board of Directors.

2. Preside at all meetings of Female Council and all committee meetings. They shall generally perform the duties usual to the office of the Chair, and may at their discretion, order a special meeting of the Female Council or its committees.

3. In case of emergency, may exercise all the duties and powers of any of the Female Council Regional Directors, but such action shall be referred within fifteen (15) days to the Advisory Committee of Female Council for approval or rejection.

4. With the approval of the President of Hockey Nova Scotia, the Chair of Female Council or a designated representative shall have the power to suspend any player, coach, manager, or executive member for misconduct on or off the ice. Such suspension to be referred to the Advisory Council within fifteen (15) days, such suspension automatically terminates at the expiration of the period of suspension. All leagues/teams will recognize such suspensions and Hockey Nova Scotia’s Executive Director shall notify those necessary of such suspensions and penalties. Any person so suspended shall have the right to appeal.

5. Be an ex-officio member of all Female Council committees.

6. Only vote at Female Council meetings in case of a tie.

7. Perform other duties as directed by the President of Hockey Nova Scotia.

8. Serve on committees as directed by the Board of Directors of Hockey Nova Scotia or the President.

F15.3 Any information on standing committees and the other councils of Hockey Nova Scotia are available in the Hockey Nova Scotia Regulations.

Back to Contents

Regulation F16: Meetings of the Associations/Councils

F16.1 See Hockey Nova Scotia Regulations for meetings of the associations/councils.

Back to Contents

Regulation F17: Voting

F17.1 See Hockey Nova Scotia Regulations for voting.

Back to Contents

Regulation F18: U7 Program

F18.1 Objectives

Hockey Nova Scotia strives to provide all players within the U7 Program with a positive learning environment that includes the opportunity to learn the basic skills of hockey, have fun, and develop self-confidence. Our goal is to teach participants the basic skills, including skating, shooting, and puck handling, while providing a positive experience for players that fosters continued participation in the sport of hockey.

F18.2 Education

Hockey Nova Scotia recommends that all associations provide education, orientation, and awareness to their members on the benefits of the U7 Program using the U7 Program jamboree on an annual basis. Furthermore, associations are encouraged to seek branch support in identifying resources to assist in the overall education of their members on the merits of the U7 Program and the need to focus volunteers and parents on making the experience a positive one.

F18.3 Curriculum

Associations shall use the national U7 Program curriculum developed by Hockey Canada to lead their efforts in providing programming as follows:

• Level One - U7 Program - Phase 1 and 2

• Level Two - U7 Program - Phase 3 and 4

Players, regardless of age, should be placed at a level that is appropriate to their skill and ability. Associations shall provide ongoing evaluation of participants and continue to place each at the level appropriate to their level of skill and ability throughout the season.

F18.4 Certification

Individuals who work on ice teaching the participants within the U7 Program shall be referred to as “instructors.” All instructors involved in the four-to-six-year-old age group must be certified in the four-hour Intro Coach Program Clinic offered annually by Hockey Nova Scotia.

F18.5 Jamborees

1. U7 teams may enter a maximum of four U7 jamborees per season.

2. Permits are required for jamborees hosted by Female Council associations to satisfy the sanction requirements of Hockey Canada.

3. Travel permits are required by any U7 team wishing to play in jamborees outside their region.

4. Teams at the U7 level shall not be permitted to travel outside the province of Nova Scotia.

5. Permits for U7 jamborees involving female teams (branch jamborees) are obtained from the Regional Director. There is no fee for these permits. Two weeks’ notice is required.

Back to Contents

Regulation F19: U9 Program

F19.1 Objectives

The objective of Hockey Nova Scotia’s U9 Program is to foster respect, sportspersonship, and a fun atmosphere. The U9 Program shall strive to continue to develop the participants in the basic skills areas of skating, shooting, and puck handling, while introducing them to competitive opportunities within an environment based on skill and ability. The intent is to continue to place a high emphasis on skill development while introducing participants to competition, playing rules, and the “team” concept.

F19.2 Education

Hockey Nova Scotia recommends that all associations continue to provide education, orientation, and awareness to their members about the benefits of skill development and the need to continue to focus on making each experience a positive one.

F19.3 Competition

Players within the U9 Program shall be assigned to levels based on their skill and ability. Associations shall assign participants to an appropriate learning environment based on an evaluation at the start of the season and continue to provide ongoing evaluation throughout the season to ensure each participant continues to be assigned to the appropriate skill level and most appropriate learning environment. The levels for use within the U9 Program include Level 1 (Developmental), Level 2 (Intermediate), and Level 3 (Advancing).

Female Council may establish leagues for the sole purpose of scheduling competition. Any such league may not include any placement or standings, the retention or publishing of individual statistics, any playoffs, or a declared league winner under any format.

Teams, where appropriate and based on skill and ability, may play exhibition games against similar caliber teams from other female associations within their conference.

In all U9 Program competitions, associations shall ensure that all players are treated fairly with respect to ice time distribution and situational opportunities. To maximize ice use during competition, if a team is assessed a penalty, the offending player will sit in the penalty box, but the team shall not play a player short. The offending team shall put another on the ice. There shall be no power plays and no team shall play a player short during any games.

F19.4 U9 Seasonal Structure for All Levels

DEVELOPMENT SEASON

From the association's start date until the half-ice season begins. A minimum of four practices or skill sessions must occur before formal evaluations begin, and a minimum of three formal evaluation sessions must be delivered.

HALF-ICE / CROSS-ICE SEASON

October 1 to December 25, with a maximum of twenty-four (24) half-ice scrimmages, including jamborees. Officials may be used. All scrimmages shall be approved by the local Regional Director.

FULL-ICE SEASON

Beginning December 26, with a maximum of sixteen (16) controlled full-ice scrimmages, including jamborees, between associations or within an association, for the purpose of full-ice playing education and instruction in preparation for the U11 division. Officials may be used. All scrimmages shall be approved by the local Regional Director.

F19.5 Level 1 - Developmental

The Developmental Level is for players who are either new to the sport or continue to require focused development in the basic skills areas of skating, shooting, and puck handling. The objective of this level is to place a heavy emphasis on skill development while providing minimal introduction to competition. Players may participate in games at this level with a minimum practice to game ratio of 2:1.

F19.6 Level 2 - Intermediate

The Intermediate Level is for players who possess the basic skills of skating, shooting, and puck handling but who require continued development to accomplish a satisfactory level of some or all of the skills. Players at this level should have sufficient skill and ability to be able to actively participate in a competitive environment with a satisfactory level of success. Players may participate in games at this level with a minimum practice to game ratio of 1:1.

F19.7 Level 3 - Advancing

The Advancing Level is for players who possess many of the basic skills including skating, shooting, and puck handling and demonstrate the capability to advance to more challenging levels of skill development. Players at this level should be able to participate fully in a competitive environment with a high probability of success. Players may participate in games at this level with a minimum practice to game ratio of 1:1.

F19.8 Player Assessment and Evaluation

Associations shall conduct evaluations to select teams or to place players on teams based on skill and ability. All players shall be grouped at the appropriate level based on their skill and ability through evaluation of their skills, which are performed during typical program activities such as games or practices.

Under no circumstances shall associations “cut” or release players from levels or teams. Associations must carefully consider all aspects of the player’s skill, ability, social maturity, physical maturity, capability to compete successfully, and any other factor prior to advancing a player to the next level to ensure that the player continues to develop and have fun and thereby eliminating any need to release the player back to a lower level. All movement of the player within the U9 Program shall be progressive. The assessment of players throughout the season shall be conducted in a fair and objective manner. Associations are strongly encouraged to implement structured evaluation methods and processes to ensure that all players are treated fairly and are placed in the most appropriate level and learning environment.

The assessment of players shall be done internally at the association level in consultation with the U9 Program coaches, administrators, Association Coaching Coordinator, Coach Mentor Coordinator, and approved by the association. Any assessment or evaluation of any player shall not be conducted in a tryout environment. Such evaluation should be conducted while the player is permitted to function within the normal program activities such as games or practices.

F19.9 Tournaments

Any tournament in which a U9 team participates must be within Nova Scotia and no U9 team shall be permitted to compete in any activity outside of Hockey Nova Scotia’s jurisdiction or Nova Scotia. Tournaments for the U9 level may not include the retention and posting of statistics, the selection of all-star teams or awards, the selection of MVPs or awards, and shall not include championship games or any other format that declares a winner.

F19.10 Player Movement

As specified per FC Regulation F2.20, at the discretion of the association and with the approval of Female Council, players may be placed in the U11 division with the consent of the parent(s)/ guardian(s).

• Only players that are eight years of age are eligible for consideration to advance to U11.

F19.11 Travel

Teams wishing to travel outside of the region in which their association resides for the purposes of playing exhibition games or attending tournaments, must have the prior approval of Female Council by applying for a travel permit in the Hockey Canada Registry. Teams that fail to obtain such approval prior to any such activity shall be sanctioned as described in FC Regulation F19.13 - Sanctions.

F19.12 Certification

All coaches, including assistants, involved at the seven-eight-year-old age group shall be certified according to FC Regulation Eleven – Certification Requirements. Coaches who fail to obtain the necessary certification will not be permitted to participate in any Hockey Nova Scotia U9 Program activity, including games or practices, for any team.

F19.13 Sanctions

Hockey Nova Scotia, as the governing body for Female Hockey within Nova Scotia may, through their Female Council, impose sanctions on associations, teams and/or members who do not abide by the regulations established for the U9 Program. Any sanctions will be based on the severity of any infraction and the ranges of response, in no specific order, may vary to include written reprimand; suspension of the coach or coaches; suspension of the team; withdrawal of travel permits and/or approvals for future activities; and/or revocation of membership rights of the coach, team, and/or association.

F19.14 U9 General Information

1. Every individual game at every level of U9 is to be calculated into the individual players’ and teams’ game cap and ratio of practices to games. This will be monitored by Female Council and sanctions imposed for non-compliance.

2. At every level, U9 games shall not have posted scores, keep statistics, select all-stars or MVPs, or present awards pertinent to any of these, or other individual skills assessments which indicate the preference of one child over another.

Back to Contents

Regulation F20: Maritime Major U18 Female Hockey League

F20.1 Objectives

The objectives of the Maritime Major U18 Female Hockey League (MMFHL) are:

1. To provide a higher caliber of play for skilled female players in all areas of Nova Scotia.

2. To encourage players to stay at home in Nova Scotia by providing a viable competitive alternative.

3. To provide a competitive level of hockey under female hockey rules that provides for an emphasis on education, skill development, and sportspersonship.

4. To enable skilled players to compete against players of a similar level while limiting the impact on family and travel to players.

F20.2 Structure

The league will consist of four regionalized teams located in the following regions: Region 1: Area inclusive of all Cape Breton island and Strait regions. Region 2: Area inclusive of all Fundy Highland.

Region 3: Area inclusive of all Metro East, Bedford, and Sackville.

Region 4: Area inclusive of Metro West, excluding Bedford and Sackville, and all of Valley, and Western zones.

• Boundaries may be adjusted with the approval of Female Council.

• Any expansion of these teams within the league will require the approval of Female Council and the Hockey Nova Scotia Board of Directors.

F20.3 Governance

The Maritime Major U18 Female Hockey League is governed by Hockey Nova Scotia and is under the jurisdiction of Female Council. All regulatory issues must be submitted and processed through the Female Council Executive.

In the absence of a regulation in FC Regulation Twenty - Maritime Major U18 Female Hockey League, the league will fall under current approved female hockey regulations and established policies [FC Policy F20.3 - MMFHL Governance].

Oversight of the MMFHL will be governed by Female Council and will include the High-Performance Female Coach as a liaison between the league and the Female Council. They will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the league which will include, but not be limited to:

• Approval of the league schedule

• Approval of all spring identification camps

• Approval of all requested player releases

• Conducting of monthly meetings

• Approval of the provincial playoff qualifying structure

1. Each team will be responsible to fill the following executive positions:

• President

Responsible for

» Immediate oversite of the team

» Setting and monitoring the goals of the club

» Running club meetings

» Filling supporting positions within the club

» Delegating tasks as necessary

» Recruiting, training, and retaining members

» Marketing of the club

» Maintaining regular communication with Female Council

• Treasurer

» Controls the club’s money

» Submits projected budget at start of season to Female Council

» Collection and disbursement of member dues

» Prepares and monitors the budget

» Maintains accurate financial records

» Submits an actual financial report at the end of season to Female Council

• Registrar

» Secures the number of participants attending all team events

» Ensures players are added to the Hockey Canada Registry

» Once completed, advises their respective Regional Director for all player approval » Notifies Female Council of any player releases within 24 hours of that release » Ensures game sheets are forwarded to Female Council through the online game reporting protocol

F20.4 Financials

Each team shall provide

• The proposed budget by September 30

• The actuals by April 30

• Financial updates to Hockey Nova Scotia where any changes have been made to the proposed budget

• The financial statement may be provided to Hockey Nova Scotia or parent(s)/guardian(s)

• Please see FC Policy F20.4 - MMFHL Financials for additional information and the budget template

F20.5 Residency

Players must try out for the teams within their respective region(s).

Should a player not be selected to the team within their region, they may try out for one (1) of the three (3) remaining teams in the league. Each player is only permitted to try out for a maximum of two (2) Major U18 Female teams per season.

Should there be a boundary change, players currently registered with a team whose new boundaries do not include their residence may choose to stay for the remainder of their U18 eligibility with their current team or play with the regional team from their home jurisdiction. Players must choose where they will play their remaining U18 eligibility by April 30 of the end of that season. This clause is not applicable to players who are not currently participating in the Major U18 Female League, including siblings of current players.

F20.6 Player Eligibility

Players must be U18 aged (15, 16, or 17 years old within the calendar year) and residentially eligible to register and play female hockey with Hockey Nova Scotia to be eligible to tryout for their Major U18 Female zone team.

F20.7 Player Selection

Player evaluation and selection will be the responsibility of each respective team utilizing the Hockey Nova Scotia High Performance Program Evaluation/Selection model.

• Try-outs for all clubs shall not commence prior to August 15 annually and conclude no later than September 10 each season.

• Spring identification (ID) camps shall be held no later than May 30.

F20.8 Player Affiliation

Teams will utilize the club system of affiliation [FC Regulation Six - Affiliation].

F20.9 Team Composition

Teams shall consist of a maximum of 18 skaters and 2 goaltenders.

F20.10 Team Uniforms

All teams must provide the following equipment to all participating players:

• Sweaters

• Matching socks

• Gloves

• Helmets with CSA approved masks

• Pants or shells

Any change or addition of team colours must be approved by Female Council.

F20.11 Conflict of Interest

Female Council shall approve team executives and volunteers on each team and must be informed of any changes in team administrative structure [FC Policy F20.11 - MMFHL Conflict of Interest].

F20.12 Registration

All team members and officials must be registered as specified in Hockey Nova Scotia Regulations.

F20.13 Schedule

Teams will play a balanced league schedule with all games being played on weekends, Saturday evenings, and Sunday mornings or afternoons, and scheduled at times that allow players to commute to games from their place of residence on the day of the game [FC Policy F20.13 - MMFHL Schedule].

F20.14 Competition

Please see FC Policy F20.14 - MMFHL Competition for detailed breakdown on game structure. The MMFHL will refer to FC Regulation Two - Competition if not covered in the policy.

F20.15 Practices

Teams must hold a minimum of two practices per week at a minimum of one-hour duration each. Players are expected to make every effort to attend all practices.

F20.16 Coach Selection

Coach selection will be administered by the teams; however, all coaches must be approved by the Female Council. All coaches and bench staff must meet the minimum certification standards as specified in Hockey Nova Scotia Regulations.

F20.17 Discipline

The Hockey Nova Scotia Code of Discipline and Minimum Suspensions will apply.

F20.18 Member Teams

The league’s Nova Scotia teams will be awarded through an evaluation of submitted bids from interested groups who must meet specific bid criteria. Teams will be awarded terms of two years, upon conclusion of which they must reapply. Hockey Nova Scotia has the right to revoke membership upon completion of this term. Teams will be evaluated during this period to ensure they adhere to all aspects of the bid solicitation requirements and Hockey Nova Scotia policies and procedures [FC Policy F20.18 - MMFHL Member Teams Bid Requirements].

New out-of-province teams must apply to Hockey Nova Scotia’s Female Council through their respective branch by August 31 with their intention to join the league. To secure their membership for the upcoming season in the MMFHL, they must satisfy one of the following:

• A franchise performance bond of at least $1,000 has been provided to Hockey Nova Scotia.

• Teams without franchise bonds are required to pay a MMFHL performance bond of $500 that will be held by Hockey Nova Scotia until the end of the applicable season.

• Should any team fail to compete in the season, the performance bond will be forfeited to Hockey Nova Scotia to cover administrative costs.

• Admission, or readmission, to the MMFHL will require approval from Hockey Nova Scotia’s Female Council and the appropriate branch from the applicable province.

F20.19 Current teams are required to submit a renewal notice in writing to Hockey Nova Scotia’s Female Council by February 1 where they intend to return for another two-year term [FC Policy F20.19 - MMFHL Member Teams Renewal Requirements].

Back to Contents

Regulation F21: Non-Sanctioned Hockey Activity

F21.1 Non-Sanctioned Hockey

Participation by HNS member teams in non-sanctioned hockey is not permitted during the hockey season. No HNS registered team shall play against a non-sanctioned hockey team. Members of Hockey Nova Scotia who were registered in the previous season and participate in “unsanctioned hockey” are advised that Hockey Nova Scotia will not be responsible for actions emanating from said activities and further, that the medical and liability insurance programs under which all members are protected will be automatically voided.

For the purposes of interpretation, “non-sanctioned hockey” is any hockey program that is not approved by Hockey Nova Scotia.

This regulation does not restrict an HNS member player from taking part in the tryout process for a private hockey program; Hockey Nova Scotia and Hockey Canada insurance does not cover the player during that activity.

F21.2 Procedure for Reporting

Any complaint against a member participating in a non-sanctioned activity during Hockey Nova Scotia ‘s year, must be in written form and signed by the coach and manager of the team and/or president/ chair of the association outlining the nature of their complaint. The evidence associated with this complaint shall be forwarded to the Executive Director of Hockey Nova Scotia, who can arrange for a hearing into this allegation.

F21.3 Process

Once a complaint has been received by Hockey Nova Scotia there will be an investigation into the complaint. If the President of Hockey Nova Scotia determines that sufficient information has been provided, a committee shall be struck by the President to hear the complaint.

F21.4 Decisions

A player, coach, or other member who plays or practices with another team or organization while retaining Hockey Nova Scotia membership and is proven to have participated in a non-sanctioned event will be sanctioned through any of the following means:

1. A reprimand.

2. Suspension of playing or coaching privileges for a specified period of time.

3. Have their membership privileges withdrawn.

4. Such other action as the committee deems appropriate.

Back to Contents

Regulation F22: Female Provincial Playoff Qualifications

F22.1 In order to compete in the provincial championship tournament or in any Hockey Nova Scotia playoffs, a team must adhere to FC Regulation F2.15.

F22.2 Female teams must adhere to game play rules as identified in FC Regulation F2.16.

F22.3 Female Council will be responsible for the playoff structure leading to provincial championships in all divisions. The structure will be posted by November 15.

F22.4 The top 4 teams in each representative level will qualify for the provincial championship tournament at the conclusion of the playoff round.

F22.5 A minimum of 11 skaters and 1 goaltender in uniform on the ice and/or players’ bench, on each team shall be necessary for the start of any provincial playoff game. Any team dressing fewer than 11 skaters and 1 goaltender will forfeit the game.

F22.6 Associations are to ensure that a copy of Hockey Nova Scotia’s Rules and Regulations is present at the timekeepers’ bench for all playoff games.

F22.7 Players who have participated in a minimum of 10 preseason, regular season, or scheduled exhibition/tournament games shall be permitted to compete in provincial playoff games.

a. Players who are added after the team tryout process is completed and are returning from preparatory schools must have participated in 70% of their team’s scheduled regular season games to compete in provincial playoff games as a player or to be used as an affiliate.

F22.8 In all Hockey Nova Scotia playoffs, any team found to be playing with illegal players will forfeit the game to the non-offending team. The coach or team official will be under indefinite suspension until dealt with by the Female Council Executive.

F22.9 Oversight of the schedule shall be the responsibility of the Regional Director in charge of scheduling [FC Policy F22.9 - Scheduling].

F22.10 Games shall consist of three 15-minute stop time periods, with ice resurfacing between the second and third periods according to the FC Policy F23.5 - Game Protocol. All playoff games must be played to completion.

F22.11 One 30-second timeout per team will be permitted in each playoff game including overtime.

F22.12 In provincial playoff games where a winner must be declared the FC Policy F23.8 - Overtime Format must be followed.

F22.13 The host association must supply minor officials, including score and timekeepers (no goal judges).

F22.14 Female Council will establish a playoff format leading to the provincial championship event. This format will be posted to novascotiafemalehockey.ca and hockeynovascotia.ca by December 1.

Back to Contents

Regulation F23: Female Provincial Championship Tournament

F23.1 Teams competing in the provincial championship tournament shall be the four top teams at the representative level as determined by the league playoffs.

F23.2 The format and schedule for provincial championship tournaments is established annually by the Female Council Executive and is the responsibility of Hockey Nova Scotia. Neither format nor schedule may be changed without the prior written permission of the Female Council Chair or their designate. All games must be played as scheduled, regardless of whether they have a bearing on the outcome of the tournament.

F23.3 The provincial tournament format is single round robin with a championship game. Team placement is based on the league playoffs:

• Teams 1 and 2 will receive 2 home games.

F23.4 The tournament schedule can be found at novascotiafemalehockey.ca under Provincials.

F23.5 Games shall consist of three 15-minute stop-time periods with ice resurfacing between the second and third periods [FC Policy F23.5 - Game Protocol].

F23.6 One 30-second timeout per team will be permitted in each game including overtime.

F23.7 For round-robin play, if a game is tied at the end of regulation time, teams shall have a two (2)-minute rest without leaving the ice, not change ends, and commence a five-minute stop clock, four-on-four sudden victory period. If teams remain tied after the overtime period, each team will receive one point.

F23.8 In provincial championship games where a winner must be declared the Female Council Overtime Format policy must be followed [FC Policy F23.8 - Overtime Format].

F23.9 Hockey Canada Registry rosters and affiliate player certification must be available and presented upon request. Each team shall designate in writing a maximum of 17 skaters and 2 goaltenders - eligible players, regular, affiliated, or any combination thereof - who will participate in the championships. This shall be done at the officials’ meeting and there will be no changes to the list for any reason after the championships begin.

Note: U18 shall designate in writing a maximum of 18 skaters and 2 goaltenders.

F23.10 Hockey Nova Scotia Officiating Program (HNSOP) will supply officials and Female Council will supply scorekeepers/timekeepers.

HNSOP will attempt to supply female officials where possible.

F23.11 Failure to present player credentials, or to appear for any game as scheduled, or to complete any game, shall result in forfeiture and possible suspension from further play. Any game forfeited shall carry a score of 5-0 against the offending team. Individual records, if any, shall count in the overall statistics.

F23.12 Any ties in the standings after round-robin play will be resolved using the Tie Breaking Format, available on the novascotiafemalehockey.ca website [FC - Tie Breaking Format].

F23.13 The Chair of Female Council shall appoint an officer of the Female Council to hear and rule without delay on any protests or disputes arising during a provincial championship tournament. The requirement for a protest fee is waived. However, should a participant wish to appeal a ruling of the appointed officer, the provisions of FC Regulation F13.11 must be met.

F23.14 A virtual meeting of tournament officials, coaches and managers, the referee assignor, and a representative of Female Council, shall be held on the Wednesday evening before the start of the tournament to familiarize all parties with the rules and regulations. All teams must have a representative at this meeting.

F23.15 Hockey Nova Scotia shall provide appropriate individual and team recognition for the winning team. Female Council will provide the official Hockey Nova Scotia gold and silver medals, Championship Banner, Championship Plaque, and Fair Play Plaque to be presented at the conclusion of the tournament. The Fair Play Plaque is awarded to the “most sportspersonlike team.”

Back to Contents

Regulation F24: Female House Championships

F24.1 Scheduling for the recreation leagues will be done by the Female Council Scheduling Committee.

F24.2 Leagues will be determined geographically by the number of teams.

F24.3 League playoffs and championships will be administered by the respective associations.

F24.4 All award costs will be covered by the associations.

Back to Contents

Regulation F25: Code of Discipline

F25.1 The Hockey Nova Scotia Code of Discipline and Minimum Suspensions is a separate document, the Hockey Nova Scotia Code of Discipline 2026-27, published alongside these Regulations at hockeynovascotia.ca.

Back to Contents

Regulation F26: Officials

F26.1 On-ice officials, referees, and linespersons must be registered and in good standing with Hockey Nova Scotia.

F26.2 Associations, through their referee-in-chief/director of officiating, are responsible for assigning capable officials for all games within their jurisdiction. This should take into consideration maturity, physical capabilities, as well as the level of certification held by an official. During interassociation games, on-ice officials shall not be a member of the executive of the association of either of the competing teams except by mutual written consent of the head coach of the participating teams.

F26.3 Referees and linespersons should be appropriately dressed for their role, including a black (or dark blue) and white striped sweater, black (or dark blue) pants, and a CSA approved hockey helmet, preferably black with a clear plastic half-face shield.

F26.4 Representative female hockey will utilize the following officiation systems:

1. U11 - three-person officiating system

2. U13 - three-person officiating system

3. U15 AA - three-person officiating system

4. U15 AAA - four-person officiating system

5. U18 - four-person officiating system

F26.5 Recreational female hockey will utilize the following officiation systems:

1. U9 - one official per game

2. U11 - two/three-person officiating system

3. U13 - three-person officiating system

4. U15 - three-person officiating system

F26.6 The three-person system, consisting of a referee and two linespersons, must be used for all games (exception: 4 officials must be used for U15 AAA and all U18). The referee for these games must have at least level 3 certification and the linespersons level 2. If officials with these qualifications are not available, the appropriate authority (Zone Supervisor for Officials, Regional Director, Conference Coordinator, or Chair of Female Council) may approve assignment of officials with a lower skill level or the use of the two-person system. No protests will be allowed in this respect.

F26.7 Unless unavoidable, and only if agreed to by coaches in writing, a referee or linesperson shall not officiate in any game in which a participant is related in any way.

F26.8 Officials (referees) shall report all game misconducts, gross misconducts, and match penalties which lead to a suspension under the Hockey Nova Scotia Code of Discipline to the Hockey Nova Scotia Minor Council Suspensions Coordinator at suspensions@hockeynovascotia.ca

F26.9 All associations, through their President and Referee-in-Chief/Director of Officiating, must ensure that officials both playing and officiating female hockey, only referee games up to one division below the level they presently play. These officials may continue to act as linespersons for games within the division in which they play hockey.

Example - A U18 player could do lines for any U18 game, but only referee U15 and below. Associations who find this taxing their officiating resources may make an application to the Officiating Committee for an exception.

F26.10 All associations, through their President, shall appoint or elect a Referee-in-Chief/Director of Officiating who is either a registered referee with Hockey Nova Scotia or a retired referee previously registered with the Hockey Canada/Hockey Nova Scotia officiating system.

Back to Contents

Regulation F27: Releases and Transfers

F27.1 A player desiring to move from a team in their geographical boundaries to another within Hockey Nova Scotia must first secure a release in writing from the association where they are a member. Such a release shall be filed with the Female Council using the Female Council Player Movement Form. In the event a team uses a player not properly registered, Hockey Nova Scotia shall have the right to discipline the team as they see fit.

F27.2 Even though a release has been obtained, Female Council shall have the right, in its discretion, to refuse the release from one team within Hockey Nova Scotia to another team within Hockey Nova Scotia.

F27.3 Where the release of a player is required, it shall be effective only if signed by the president and registrar of the association of which the player is a member.

F27.4 All releases are conditional, subject to FC Regulation F27.2, and shall be for no longer than one playing season. At the end of the playing season, the player shall return to their home association. If the player who receives a transfer wishes to transfer in subsequent years, they must reapply for new transfers each year.

The request, along with the documentation as to why the request is being made, must be forwarded to the appropriate Regional Director. The Regional Director will discuss the request with the Conference Coordinator and the Chair of Female Council before a decision is made. This includes ensuring that the receiving association has agreed to the transfer.

F27.5 In the Major U18 Female League all releases shall be unconditional, subject to FC Regulation F27.2. A player receiving a release shall have the right to remain with the new team or to return to their original team at the end of the playing season. No player receiving a release can be forced to return to their original team.

The request, along with the documentation as to why the request is being made, must be forwarded to Female Council. The Conference Coordinators will discuss the release request with the Chair of Female Council before a decision is made. This includes ensuring that the receiving team has agreed to the transfer.

A player that transfers to another team after being released must notify the league registrar of their intent to return to their regional team by April 12, otherwise they will remain with their current team.

F27.6 Release procedure

1. Player to request release in writing from association or club (Major U18 Female).

a. Regional Director to be copied.

2. Association or club responds in writing to request.

b. Regional Director to be copied.

3. If the release is granted by the association, then the player will be placed by Female Council where the need is required.

c. Exception: Major U18 Female - If the release is granted by the club, then the player will have the option to attend one of the other three clubs.

4. Releases are only for the current year of the release; the player must return to their home association at the completion of that playing season.

d. Exception: Major U18 Female - Once the player has been approved for release, they will remain with the new club team after the release should they make that team.

Back to Contents

Download the Female Regulations (PDF)