SOUTHEAST BEAST PLAYING TIME POLICY

At Southeast Beast, playing time is guided by our commitment to learning, development, and excellence. Our teams are built to challenge athletes to grow as individuals and teammates, and our playing time expectations reflect both age-appropriate development and the demands of competitive hockey.

While our coaches retain flexibility in game management, they are expected to follow the age-specific guidelines below with integrity, fairness, and a player-first mindset.

8U & 10U:

• Equal playing time is prioritized across all positions. Players may be benched only for disciplinary reasons or strategic purposes in the final two minutes of close games. The focus at these levels is learning to play the game the right way, as a unit, with confidence and support.

12U:

• Coaches may begin to introduce accountability-based decisions regarding ice time. While equal shifts are encouraged, reduced playing time may be used in specific situations to reinforce effort, practice habits, or discipline. Development remains the primary goal.

14U & Older:

• Full coaching autonomy is granted to manage bench rotations, special teams, and late-game decisions. Ice time is earned through execution, attitude, and team contribution. Coaches are encouraged to communicate expectations clearly and consistently with their athletes.

AA/AAA Teams (All Levels):

• Regardless of age, coaches of AA or AAA teams are granted expanded discretion to structure playing time based on competitiveness and performance. Players and families on these rosters should understand that roles may vary and shifts must be earned through preparation, consistency, and impact.

Communication Protocol:

If a parent has a concern about playing time:

1. They must contact the Team Manager first.
2. The Team Manager will relay the issue to the Head Coach.
3. The Head Coach will schedule a meeting no earlier than 24 hours after being notified.

Parents may not approach the coach immediately after a game to discuss ice time. This policy ensures constructive, respectful dialogue and protects the team environment.

By respecting this policy, we uphold our pillars: Learn. Develop. Excel.