SAFETY
VSSC uses the Speed Skating B.C. Commitment to Safe Sport framework to foster a safe and inclusive environment — free of abuse, harassment, neglect or discrimination, both on and off the ice — for all all participants whether they are athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers or administrators.
On June 18, 2024, the Board adopted a Safe Sport Policy Manual prepared by SSBC which outlines policies including:
- Individual Protection Policy
- Code of Conduct
- Conflict of Interest
- Social Media Policy
- Complaints and Discipline Policy
- Investigations Policy – Discrimination, Harassment, Maltreatment & Prohibited Behaviour
- Appeal Policy
- Employee and Volunteer Screening Policy
- Personal Information Protection Policy
- Youth Travel Guidelines
- Dressing Room Policy
Rule of Two
The Rule of Two serves to protect minor athletes in potentially vulnerable situations, as well as the quality coaches working in our communities, by ensuring that more than one adult is present.
The goal of the Rule of Two is for organizations to always have two screened and National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) trained or certified coaches with an athlete, especially a minor athlete, when in a potentially vulnerable situation. Vulnerable situations can include closed doors meetings, travel, and remote training environments.
Coaching Association of Canada
Our Coaching staff adheres to the Coaching Association of Canada. Attached is a helpful infographic outlining good Rule of Two implementation practices.
Concussion Awareness
In short track speed skating, crashes and falls are common. Despite having the highest regulation crash mats, concussions can occur as a result of a skater hitting their head against something and it can even happen if there is no contact but the brain makes contact with the skull.
Symptoms can occur between 0 to 48 hours after a crash or impact. It is important that the athlete stops all physical activity as soon as a bad crash, fall or impact happens even if they feel “fine.” If the skater is experiencing symptoms it is very important to monitor them and visit a doctor as soon as possible. As we all now know, concussions are very serious and should not be treated lightly.
The Canadian Association of Canada’s Concussion Awareness is an excellent resource for information for parents, athletes, coaches, and teachers, and includes a concussion recognition tool as well as a return-to-sport strategy.
Speed Skating Canada
Our Coaches are well educated with Concussion protocol. Here is the SSC Return to Speed Skating Protocol & Concussion Guidelines for Club and Provincial Level Athletes.
Parachute Concussion Return-to-Sport
Parachute is Canada’s leading national charity dedicated to injury prevention. Here is their recommended Return-to-Sport Strategy for an athlete with a concussion.