Player and Parent Handbook

The player and parent handbook provides a information on what to expect with the Nepean Nighthawks.

Introduction

We are happy to welcome all players and parents to The Nepean Nighthawks Field Hockey Club. We are hopeful that this will be an exciting and rewarding experience. Our goal is to develop well-rounded players who learn the fundamentals of field hockey in an atmosphere conducive to developing sound mind, body and character – while having a good time along the way! Our program stresses learning lessons of value far beyond the playing days, such as, self-discipline, teamwork, focus, responsibility, friendship, leadership, determination, and RESPECT. We are the fastest growing Field Hockey Club in Ottawa, and one of the fastest growing in Ontario. We are the only club in Ottawa that caters to a full range of age groups for both girls and boys.

Our coaches will do their very best to ensure that each player is reaches their utmost potential and that their individual talents are used for the betterment of the team. We strongly encourage the understanding that the team comes before the individual.

Safety is one of our top concerns. Many of the exercises, drills, and team rules are in place to ensure our athletes are physically and mentally fit for field hockey. We also understand that each child is unique and develops at their own pace. Therefore, we will exercise their bodies and minds in an effort to develop the skills needed to play the game of field hockey.

Our Mission and Vision

Our focus is on fun and participation. Nepean Nighthawks FHC is a community based, volunteer driven organization dedicated to the development of field hockey in the Ottawa area. We strive to strike a balance between the development of athletes and the lifelong love of sport. Players at all levels are welcome.

Respect

Respect is of the utmost importance to the Nighthawks along with safety. Respect for each other and the sport are built into the Nighthawk’s values and curriculum. Each parent, athlete, and spectator are expected to show the utmost respect for one another as well as our facilities.

Safe Sport

The Nighthawks are dedicated to lead the Responsible Coaching Movement by implementing Safe Sport policies, procedures, and communication.

Creating a culture where everyone can thrive is a shared responsibility. The Safe Sport Training module developed by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) will help anyone involved in sport identify and prevent situations of maltreatment. Together, we can make sport safe for everyone.

https://safesport.coach.ca/

It is everyone’s responsibility to prevent and address maltreatment in sport. The Nighthawks equip coaches, administrators and others to make decisions that promote athletes’ physical and mental wellbeing and empowers the organization to foster a culture that contributes to athlete success.

Policies and Codes of Conduct

Policies may seem boring, but they are important in steering the organization and protecting athletes, coaches, and volunteers. Please take the time to review the policies below.

Equipment

Each player is required to supply the following equipment in order to play:
● Mouth guard (both field players and goalies)
● Shin Guards (field players only)
● Outdoor stick for spring/summer session, Indoor stick for fall/winter session (is provided by the club for the first few weeks of the season)
● Turf shoes spring/summer session, indoor shoes for fall/winter session
● Goalkeepers will be supplied with goalie gear
● Uniforms for Competitive Players (includes jersey, socks and a skort/shorts)

Revamp Sports is our official sponsor and supplier of equipment. You can purchase equipment online through their website. We also have an equipment sale early in the spring hosted by Revamp Sports at the field.

Other Nighthawk gear may be purchased by contacting us through the website or through your coach. See our collection of apparel here.