Bay Arena Minor Hockey Association families must complete a new online training course before the 2026-2027 hockey season begins. The Shift Forward: Evolving Hockey Culture program is now mandatory for all coaches, rostered staff, officials, and at least one parent per registered player.
The Bay Arena Minor Hockey Association announced the requirement as part of a national rollout led by Hockey Canada. The program replaces the previous Respect in Sport certification and aims to address unhealthy behaviours in the game through age-appropriate, modernized content.
The parent version of the course takes just over one hour to complete and costs $11.50 plus tax. It covers topics such as being a good sport parent, interacting with coaches and officials, and concussion awareness. Coaches and officials pay $26.99 plus tax for their required courses.
Hockey Newfoundland and Labrador is among 12 member branches implementing the program this season, following a pilot with five branches in 2025-2026. Hockey Canada says existing Respect in Sport certifications will be recognized until the end of the 2027-2028 season, after which The Shift Forward becomes mandatory for all participants.
Families who have not yet signed up are reminded that compliance is required before players can hit the ice. Registration is available through the Spordle platform.
