Social Media (Brant County Minor Hockey Association)

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Social Media Profile Policy

Purpose

This policy outlines the guidelines and expectations for the use of social media by players, coaches, staff, and other representatives of Brant County Minor Hockey. It aims to ensure respectful, professional, and responsible use of social platforms, while protecting the team’s reputation and fostering a positive online environment.

Scope

This policy applies to all individuals associated with Brant County Minor Hockey, including but not limited to:

  • Players

  • Coaches

  • Team staff and management

  • Parents and family members representing the team

  • Volunteers

General Guidelines

  • Respect and Sportsmanship: 

    • All posts, comments, and shares should reflect the values of respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship

    • Abusive, offensive, or discriminatory behavior will not be tolerated

  • Confidentiality: 

    • Do not share sensitive information related to the team, players, coaches, strategies, or internal discussions

    • This includes player injuries, tactics, or any information that could harm the team’s competitive advantage

  • Representation: 

    • Remember that you represent Brant County Minor Hockey when using social media

    • Personal accounts should not conflict with the values of the team, and you are expected to behave responsibly both on and off the ice

Prohibited Content

The following types of content are strictly prohibited:

  • Offensive, abusive, or discriminatory language

  • Cyberbullying or harassment

  • Sharing of inappropriate images or videos

  • Negative comments about teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, or league representatives

  • Discussions or endorsements of illegal substances, gambling, or unsportsmanlike behavior

Privacy

  • Consent: 

    • Ensure that you have permission before posting any content that includes other team members, coaches, or staff

    • This includes tagging them in posts or sharing personal information

  • Team Images and Logos: 

    • Use of the team’s official logos or branding on personal accounts should be done with respect and in accordance with team standards

    • Unauthorized use is not permitted

Engagement with Fans and Media

  • Positive Interactions: 

    • When engaging with fans, parents, or media, maintain professionalism and always respond politely, even in the face of criticism or negative feedback

  • No Comment Policy on Controversies: 

    • Avoid engaging in discussions related to team disputes, referee decisions, or controversial topics that could negatively impact the team’s image

Consequences for Policy Violations

Violations of this social media policy may result in:

  • Verbal or written warnings

  • Suspension from games or practices

  • Fines (if applicable)

  • Dismissal from the team (in severe cases)

Monitoring and Enforcement

BCMA reserves the right to monitor public social media profiles of players and staff to ensure compliance with this policy. However, privacy and individual rights will be respected at all times.

Guidance and Support

Players and staff are encouraged to seek guidance from the BCMHA if they are uncertain about any social media activity or need assistance managing their online presence.

Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant and effective in addressing new social media trends or issues. Any changes will be communicated to all team members promptly.

By adhering to these guidelines, we aim to create a positive, respectful, and inclusive online community that reflects the spirit and values of BCMHA.

Social Media Team Profile
Setup Guidelines 

To maintain a consistent and professional online presence, all players, coaches, and team staff are expected to follow these guidelines when setting up their Instagram profiles.

Display & Usernames

Your Team Instagram username is important because it reflects your association with BCMHA. Please follow these guidelines:

User Name Format: 

  • Includes: Brant Battalion with age group and level with season year

  • This helps with future years to make sure usernames are available to everyone

Example: 1. U14 A for 24/25 Season

  • @BrantBattalionU14A_2024_25

Example 2. U11 BB for season 25/26

  • @BrantBattalionU11BB_2025_26

Display Name Format: 

  • Includes: Brant Battalion with age group and level

  • This will help with sharing content on the main page and placed in the correct highlight

Example:

  • Brant Battalion U15A 2024-25

Avoid:

  • Anything that may misrepresent you or the team in a negative light

Profile Picture

Professionalism: 

  • Your profile picture should be appropriate and preferably hockey-related, such as:

  • Team photos

  • Association Logos

  • Sponsor Logos

Avoid: 

  • Inappropriate or overly casual photos, such as party pictures or images that could reflect poorly on you or the team

Bio Section

The team Instagram bio is a great place to express who you are and your connection to the team. Keep it short, relevant, and appropriate.

At minimum please include tag the official BCMH account @brantcountyminorhockey

Example of Profile:

Brant Battalion U10 A

Home of @brantcountyminorhockey

Record 0-0-0

Link to team website page

Avoid:

  • Any profanity or inappropriate content

  • Controversial statements or topics

  • Links to unrelated or inappropriate websites

Content Posting Guidelines

What to Post:

  • Photos and videos related to hockey, such as team events, game day photos, or training sessions

  • Positive personal content such as fitness, school, or community involvement

  • Support for your teammates and team accomplishments


What Not to Post:

  • Content that could be seen as offensive, including inappropriate language, gestures, or images

  • Posts related to alcohol, drugs, or any illegal activities

  • Negative comments about other teams, teammates, officials, or coaches

Hashtags and Tagging

Hashtags: 

  • Use team-related and hockey related hashtags to increase visibility

Tagging: 

  • Feel free to tag the official association account and teammates in relevant posts, but make sure you have their permission

#brantbattalion #behindthebattalion #branthockey


Privacy Settings

Public vs Private

  • We require professional and responsible team public profiles, it’s ultimately up to you whether to keep your personal profile public or private

  • Remember that even private accounts can be screenshotted and shared, so always think twice before posting

  • Be Mindful: Even on private accounts, inappropriate content can still reflect poorly on you and the team if shared

Stories

  • Use Wisely: Instagram stories are a great way to share real-time moments, but the same content guidelines apply as with regular posts. Be mindful of what you share, especially during or after games

Team Highlights: 

  • Consider creating highlights for team-related events, such as game days, tournaments, or team bonding activities

Handling Negative Comments

  • Stay Positive: 

    • If you encounter negative or offensive comments, avoid engaging in arguments or disrespectful behavior

    • Instead, report the comment, block the user, or inform the team’s social media manager if necessary

  • Respectful Engagement: 

    • If you respond to comments or questions, do so in a respectful and polite manner, remembering that you represent BCMHA

Compliance with Team Policy

Make sure your Instagram account complies with the overall social media policy found in the BCMHA Rules of Operations on the website. Any violations can lead to consequences as outlined in the policy, including potential disciplinary actions.

By following these guidelines, you can create a positive, professional, and team-focused Instagram presence that reflects the values and spirit of BCMHA.


If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out to [email protected].