Shift Forward Program

Shift Forward - Parent Program

New for 2026/27 season:

• At least one parent or guardian from each household of a participant at the U7 and U9 levels, regardless whether first, second or third year of participation, and those parents or guardians of new registrants up to U18 level, must take the on-line “Shift Forward Program”.

• In an effort to support a successful transition to The Shift Forward, Hockey Canada will continue to recognize existing certification—including Respect in Sport—as an equivalent as part of a multi-year phased in approach before all participants engaging with hockey will be required to complete The Shift Forward beginning in the 2028-29 season. 

The parent/guardian from each household must take the online course before the participant begins his/her first regular season session for U7 participants and first regular game for U9 and above. This implementation of the program will foster and develop a culture of mutual respect in HEO and serve as an effective risk management tool as well as contributing to the overall safety and enjoyment of the game by all participants. It is also a platform of proactive education for each of the stakeholders that have a direct impact on the youth in our game. The parents/guardians of our players represent a key step towards achieving our vision.

Completion of the Shift Forward - Parent/Guardian program for at least one parent/guardian of each family of every registered player in U7, U9 and new to the Branch shall be a condition of their eligibility for participation.

The program can be accessed through the Shift Forward page on the HEO website. Parents/guardians must select the program for parents/guardians. It is a 90 minute online curriculum that allows flexibility and does not have to be completed in one session.

Shift Forward - General Program (for coaches, officials and rostered staff)

New for 2026/27 season:

• In an effort to support a successful transition to The Shift Forward, Hockey Canada will continue to recognize existing certification—including Respect in Sport—as an equivalent as part of a multi-year phased in approach before all participants engaging with hockey will be required to complete The Shift Forward beginning in the 2028-29 season. 

The Shift Forward program is mandatory for all Coaches, Trainers, Officials, BMHA board members as well as any other adults who could be supervising players. The Shift Forward is focused on transformational change on how we approach training to achieve creating a safe and welcoming environment and empowering those who engage in the game to manage unhealthy behaviours. The Shift Forward will cover a variety of topics focused on shifting the culture of hockey forward. Modules within the program will cover the following themes: hockey culture, being an active bystander, how to have crucial conversations, autonomy, individual rights, grooming and consent.

The program can be accessed through the Shift Forward page on the HEO website. It is a 90 minute online curriculum that allows flexibility and does not have to be completed in one session.