By Hockey Saskatchewan

REGINA, Sask. – Hockey Saskatchewan is proud to recognize 11.4 Maltreatment Awareness Day on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, reinforcing the provincial sports organization's commitment to fostering respectful hockey environments.

Maltreatment Awareness Day highlights Rule 11.4 on discrimination within the 2026-28 Hockey Canada Playing Rules, which addresses taunts, insults or intimidation based on discriminatory grounds, including race, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family status, genetic characteristics and disability.

“Discrimination has no place in hockey. On-ice officials in the province are trained to assess a gross misconduct penalty for such behaviour and report incidents for further review when required,” said Trent Cey, Hockey Saskatchewan Manager of Officiating Development.

“Through education, awareness and accountability, Hockey Saskatchewan continues to work alongside its members to ensure all participants can enjoy the game in a positive and respectful environment.”

During the 2025-26 season, Hockey Saskatchewan substantiated 64 Rule 11.4 cases, down from 88 in 2024-25 and 98 in 2023-24, reflecting a positive downward trend. While any case is one too many, the decline demonstrates the value of ongoing education, awareness and accountability efforts.

The Green Armband Initiative is one example, launched in the 2024-25 season to identify and support young officials aged 15 and under. Officials participating in the program wear green armbands on the ice, helping players, coaches and spectators recognize younger officials while promoting patience, mentorship and respect as they develop their skills and confidence.

Since the initiative’s inception, over 5,000 green armbands have been distributed to young officials across the province. More information on the Green Armband Initiative is available by clicking here.

Hockey Saskatchewan also continues to incorporate educational programming through its Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) partnership as part of its response to Rule 11.4 infractions, reinforcing respect, accountability and positive sport experiences for all participants.

Provincial Leader in Sport Excellence.

About HOCKEY SASKATCHEWAN

Hockey Saskatchewan was established in 1912 and is the governing body for organized hockey in the province. With a mission to advance hockey through innovation, engagement and participation, Hockey Saskatchewan encourages competition at all levels – from recreational to high performance. Hockey Saskatchewan has grown through the years and is Saskatchewan’s largest sports organization with over 53,400 members comprised of players, coaches and officials. For more information, please visit www.hockeysask.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.