New rules for minor hockey players when it comes to dressing rooms.

Hockey Canada says players 18-and under can’t change in-or-out of their base layer in a dressing room.

In a statement, the sport’s governing body says all participants have the right to utilize the dressing room based on their gender identity, religious beliefs, body image concerns or other reasons based on individual needs.

Coaches and staff are expected to enforce the new rules.

Hockey Canada says they recognize parents’ concern about their kids remaining in hockey gear following a practice or game, but it doesn’t prohibit players from changing, as long as its done in a private space at the arena.

Statement from Hockey Canada:

“Hockey Canada’s Dressing Room Policy which will be implemented for the 2023-24 season was designed to enhance the safety of all participants through proper supervision and minimum attire requirements.

 All participants have the right to utilize the dressing room or appropriate and equivalent dressing environment based on their gender identity, religious beliefs, body image concerns, and/or other reasons related to their individual needs.

 Hockey Canada recognizes parents’ concern over participants expected to remain in their hockey gear following a practice or game. The policy does not prohibit participants from changing from their base layer, which they may do in a private space as outlined in the policy, or showering at the rink, and the minimum requirements of attire and supervision are aligned with the principles of the Rule of Two, which is an accepted best practice in the Canadian Sport System.”