Safe Sport

Safe Sport

 

 

In 1975 Saskatchewan Rugby’s founding mission statement was to provide rugby under safe conditions in Saskatchewan and today we strive to make rugby in Saskatchewan as safe as possible and wlecoming for all participants. Keeping rugby healthy, safe and fun has been a priority of Saskatchewan Rugby for decades and we actively work with our membership and partners to fulfill that goal.

Saskatchewan Rugby has many practices, policies and resources available (listed below) that assist with bullying, abuse, harassment, discrimination, maltreatment and conflict in sport.

Saskatchewan Rugby Safe Sport Goal

Our goal is to provide a safe and quality experience for current and future rugby communities across Saskatchewan.

Our Values

INTEGRITY is central to the fabric of the game and is generated through honesty and fair play.

The rugby community have a PASSION and enthusiasm for the game. Rugby generates excitement, emotional attachment and a sense of bolonging to the rugby community. 

Rugby provides a spirit of SOLIDARITY that leads to lifelong friendships, camaraderie, teamwork and loyalty which transcends cultural, geographic, political and religious differences.

DISCIPLINE is an integral part of the game both on and off the field and is reflected through adherence to the laws, the regulations and rugby’s core values.

RESPECT for teammates, opponents, match officials and those involved in the game is paramount.

Saskatchewan Rugby Safe Sport Goal

Saskatchewan Rugby Follows a very similar Safe Sport framework to Rugby Canada through their three key pillars: Awareness, Prevention, and Response. Each pillar is supported by resources and policies. The purpose of the framework is to provide a clear guide for all members to access resources and support required to implement safe and inclusive rugby programming.

Resources

Safe Sport Policy Index

The Safe Sport Policy Index acts as a hub for all relevant pieces within Saskatchewan Rugby’s Safe Sport Policy. This policy is intended to promote a Safe Sport environment in a manner that allows for consistent, immediate, appropriate, and meaningful action should any issues arise, but also to prevent issues from arising in the first place by communicating expected standards of behaviour.

Safe Sport Policy Document Glossary

Complaint Process

In the event of an incident or a breach of conduct, a complaint can be made in accordance to the Saskatchewan Rugby Safe Sport’s Discipline and Complaints Policy. The procedure is best outlined via the graphic below and if further clarification is required then please refer to the Discipline and Complaints Policy or the detailed Flowchart which outlines the Complaint Process. All complaints can be made anonymously via the IntegrityCounts Confidential & Anonymous Reporting System which will be directed to Sask Sport for further review.

Reporting an Incident

Step 1: The introduction which includes a check-box for the terms of use.

Step 2: Enter in Sask Sport as the organization then declare your identity within Sask Sport as well as whether you wish the complaint to be anonymous or to have contact information included.

Step 3: Fill the necessary fields to provide a detailed report of the complaint or breach in question.

Step 4: Provide any supporting documentation if possible through the File Dropper.

Step 5: Review your Complaint and create a password which can be used to revisit your complaint for details regarding the next step in the Complaint Process.

 

All persons under the umbrella of Saskatchewan Rugby, as well as those among Rugby Canada, will process Safe Sport complaints with the Office of the Sport Integrity Commissioner (OSIC), which serves as the central hub of Abuse-Free Sport. All other organizational members will continue to have access to Rugby Canada’s independent mechanism. 

Incidents that involved alleged Maltreatment or Prohibited Behaviour involving a UCCMS Participant must be reported to the OSIC and will be addressed purusuant to the OSIC’s policies and procedures.

OSIC shall determine the admissibility of such complaints in accordance with the relevant and applicable OSIC Guidelines regarding the initial review and preliminary assessment, at their sole discretion.

Saskatchewan Rugby acknowledges the obligation of Rugby Canada, as a Progeram Signatory to the OSIC, to ensure that any sanctions or measures imposed by the OSIC’s Director of Sanctions and Outcomes will be implemented and respected within Rugby Canada’s jurisdiction (including at the provincial, territorial and club level), once Rugby Canada receives appropriate notice of any sanction or measure from the OSIC and communicates the same to Saskatchewan Rugby. The Safe Sport Liaison shall communicate any OSIC sanctions or measures resulting in a suspension of one year or longer, received from Rugby Canada to Sask Sport.

Disputes managed by the OSIC will not be subject to appeals under Saskatchewan Rugby as it will be handled in accordance with the policies and procedures of the OSIC or the Director of Sanctions and Outcomes, as applicable.

Many communities and corporations make efforts to keep sport safe at every level. Using the resources and opportunities provided is crucial to breaking the stigmas, barriers, and maltreatment we see today. See below for resources provided for you and anyone else in the Saskatchewan Rugby community to grow awareness and help those in need.

Respect in Sport

The online RESPECT IN SPORT ACTIVITY LEADER PROGRAM educates youth leaders, coaches, oficials and participants (14-years and up) to recognize, understand and respond to issues of bullying, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.

The online RESPECT IN SPORT PARENT PROGRAM helps define a standard of behaviour for all parents to create a more rewarding, safe and respectful environment for everyone involved. 

Coaching Association of Canada

The COACHING ASSOCIATION OF CANADA offers a variety of training programs that empower coaches with knowledge and skills, promote ethics, foster positive attitudes, build competence, and increase the credibility and recognition of coaches.

Commit to Kids

The COMMIT TO KIDS program helps child-serving organizations reduce the risk of sexual abuse and create safer environments for children in their care.

Volunteer Canada

VOLUNTEER CANADA provides national leadership and expertise on volunteerism to increase the participation, quality, and diversity of volunteer experiences.

Sask Sport Resources

The Sask Sport offices aid in ensuring everyone’s voice is heard. The Sask Sport Resource Line is intended for providing information, bilingual support, resources and referrals for sport in Saskatchewan regarding possible bullying, abuse, harassment, discrimination or hazing. 

The List of approved Service Providers for investigations provides details on assesments and case resolutions to determine whether an allegation (or several allegations)should be heard by a discipline panel to decide whether a breach to any Safe Sport policy has been made. 

Click on the links to read more to gain insights and to get in contact! 

2023 Western Championships

Saskatchewan Rugby sent three teams to compete at the annual Western Championships in Calgary, Alberta from August 4-6th 2023. Our three teams competed against many other great teams from across Canada, fought hard and learned a lot on and off the pitch.

The U16 Girls team included athletes from Manitoba and Saskatchewan and was composed of: Chloe Flanagan, Rayne Youngblut, Zara Wilson, Ginger Newstead, Cyan Beeching, Abigail Hall, Kaia Nolan, Katryna Mattern, Molly Watson, Aubrey Perillat, Rayan Abdelkerim, Sarah Murphy, Tatumn Milligan, Kieran Milligan, Keeley McMaster, Felicity Sahulka (MB), Paityn Bourgouin (MB), Bella Reid, Ava Page (MB), Adeline Dunwoody (MB), Kayel LaBelle (MB), Austyn LaBelle (MB), Samidhri Galhenage, and Kendra McEwing.

The U18 Girls team was made up of Saskatchewan and Alberta athletes named: Kathrina Klassen, Emma Dziurzynski, Kianna Gonie, Nessa Ross, Kendra Brown, Jessica Perepelitza, Emry Marchand, Shaylee Haftner-Lett, Tayler Parkinson, Erika Jimenez, Emilie Gatin, Hailey Temple, Josephine Tolentino, Raelyn Reinson, Mikayla Hamel-Sronchenski, Ella Rondeau, Nevada Weisbrod, Chloe Hedges (AB), Anela Murrel-Hebert (AB), Julia Michalczyk (AB), Larissa Atamanchuk (AB), Cass Steel (AB), Katie Share (AB), and Kiana Bryne.

 

The U18 Boys team saw one British-Columbia athlete join the Saskatchewan roster composed of: Jonah Lopez, Jaru Steyl, Hunter Burant, Owen Watson, Moe Norsten, Nolan Hall, Ayden Scrimbitt, Kaden McCarthy, Bryn Rondeau, Jaxon Rondeau, Cameron Neudrof, Carter Speidel, Chance Rivers, Steven Stadnyk, Finn Grahame-King, Walker Millbury, Mason Topley, Matthew Tysiaczny, Iain Anderton-Teasdale (BC), Erik De Necker, AJ De Necker, Sam Wagner, Austin Kemp, and Ray Monks.

Junior Rugby in Sask

After losing out on 2 seasons of summer rugby programs due to COVID-19, Saskatchewan’s junior rugby players have been busy catching up this summer. A number of junior programs and events brought our players back to the pitch, including training with local senior clubs. 

These activities wouldn’t have been possible without the support of community coaches, managers, organisers, and players, and the Sask Rugby High Performance Committee who continue to drive rugby’s progress in the province. Your sport thanks you. 

NORTH VS SOUTH

Organised by a group of women’s coaches, junior girls will be taking the pitch in Saskatoon on August 21 and Regina on August 28 for some North vs South 15s exhibition games. Each day will consist of 2 games with 20 minute halves, and team lunch in between. Good luck ladies!

U18 BOYS CANADA CAMP

Sask Rugby is hosting a U18 Boys Canada camp August 21-22 in Regina for invited athletes. Out of those selected a number of Saskatchewan athletes will have their shot at a tour with the national team in December 2021 to January 2022. Good luck boys!

CANADA SUMMER GAMES TEAM TRAINING

Initially planned for 2021, the  Niagara Canada Summer Games were rescheduled for August of 2022 due to COVID-19. Team Sask started its training with coaches Kayla Mack-Thiel and Gillian Allen in June of 2021. Any U18 girls interested in participating can learn more here: www.saskrugby.com/canadagames

RUGBY ID COMBINE

Organised by the Sask Rugby High Performance Committee, Sask’s first ever Rugby ID Combine took place in July 2021, open to all athletes interested in developing in sport. The all-day session in Regina brought in over 30 athletes and tons of talent.

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Regina Minor Rugby

Formerly Regina Mini Rugby, Regina Minor has expanded in recent years to include players ages 15 to 18. After getting cancelled in 2020, the program returned in full force August of 2021 and plans to run until October. One of the longest standing community rugby programs in Saskatchewan, RMR is an excellent option for juniors looking to get into the game or develop in a fun environment.

RMR still delivers Minis for its 4-14 ages and the kids love it.

MacDowell Prairie Academy

The Prairie Academy was one of the only training opportunities for juniors during 2020, running sessions whenever possible. The program restarted in May of 2021 and is slated to return for fall sessions in September.  The academy focuses on developing high performance rugby athletes but is open to all ages and skill levels.

NSRU Minor Rugby

Formerly Saskatoon Mini Rugby, the NSRU came together to deliver minor and junior rugby sessions in Saskatoon at the beginning of June 2021. The junior side of the program brought a number of North juniors back to the field and helped in reconnecting them with senior clubs.

2021 Saskatchewan Summer Games Cancelled

As of December 21, 2020, the 2021 Saskatchewan Summer Games are officially cancelled. This is following the earlier postponement from July 26 – August 1, 2020 to the summer of 2021. The decision to cancel the Games was made to protect the health and safety of athletes, volunteers, spectators, event staff, and residents of Lloydminster from the continued threat of COVID-19. These Games would have marked Rugby Sevens debut in the competition.

From the Saskatchewan Games Council media release:  “Following the cancellation of these Games, the event will return to its quadrennial cycle, with the next Summer Games taking place in 2024. Saskatchewan Games host communities are typically awarded through a bid process, but due to circumstances surrounding the cancellation of the 2021 Summer Games, the Saskatchewan Games Council will provide the city of Lloydminster the right of first refusal to host the 2024 Saskatchewan Summer Games.”

 

Saskatchewan Rugby supports this decision and will continue to develop and train our athletes, coaches, and managers for the 2024 Games. Athletes with questions about how this will affect their eligibility to compete at the Sask Summer Games are encouraged to review the Cancellation Q&A file below. Updates and information regarding the cancelled 2021 Games are available at the Sask Summer Games and Sask Rugby websites.

See below links for additional information:

Media Release: 2021 Saskatchewan Summer Games Called Off Due to Health and Safety Concerns

2021 Saskatchewan Summer Games: Cancellation Q&A

Safe Sport

SAFE SPORT

In 1975 Saskatchewan Rugby’s founding mission statement was to provide rugby under safe conditions in Saskatchewan and today we strive to make rugby in Saskatchewan as safe as possible and wlecoming for all participants. Keeping rugby healthy, safe and fun has been a priority of Saskatchewan Rugby for decades and we actively work with our membership and partners to fulfill that goal.

Saskatchewan Rugby has many practices, policies and resources available (listed below) that assist with bullying, abuse, harassment, discrimination, maltreatment and conflict in sport.

SAFE SPORT GOAL AND VALUES

Saskatchewan Rugby Safe Sport Goal

Our goal is to provide a safe and quality experience for current and future rugby communities across Saskatchewan.

Our Values

INTEGRITY is central to the fabric of the game and is generated through honesty and fair play.

The rugby community have a PASSION and enthusiasm for the game. Rugby generates excitement, emotional attachment and a sense of bolonging to the rugby community. 

Rugby provides a spirit of SOLIDARITY that leads to lifelong friendships, camaraderie, teamwork and loyalty which transcends cultural, geographic, political and religious differences.

DISCIPLINE is an integral part of the game both on and off the field and is reflected through adherence to the laws, the regulations and rugby’s core values.

RESPECT for teammates, opponents, match officials and those involved in the game is paramount.

SAFE SPORT TOOLKIT AND FRAMEWORK

Saskatchewan Rugby Safe Sport Goal

Saskatchewan Rugby Follows a very similar Safe Sport framework to Rugby Canada through their three key pillars: Awareness, Prevention, and Response. Each pillar is supported by resources and policies. The purpose of the framework is to provide a clear guide for all members to access resources and support required to implement safe and inclusive rugby programming.

Resources

SAFE SPORT POLICIES

Safe Sport Policy Index

The Safe Sport Policy Index acts as a hub for all relevant pieces within Saskatchewan Rugby’s Safe Sport Policy. This policy is intended to promote a Safe Sport environment in a manner that allows for consistent, immediate, appropriate, and meaningful action should any issues arise, but also to prevent issues from arising in the first place by communicating expected standards of behaviour.

Safe Sport Policy Document Glossary

REPORTING AN INCIDENT

Complaint Process

In the event of an incident or a breach of conduct, a complaint can be made in accordance to the Saskatchewan Rugby Safe Sport’s Discipline and Complaints Policy. The procedure is best outlined via the graphic below and if further clarification is required then please refer to the Discipline and Complaints Policy or the detailed Flowchart which outlines the Complaint Process. All complaints can be made anonymously via the IntegrityCounts Confidential & Anonymous Reporting System which will be directed to Sask Sport for further review.

Reporting an Incident

Step 1: The introduction which includes a check-box for the terms of use.

Step 2: Enter in Sask Sport as the organization then declare your identity within Sask Sport as well as whether you wish the complaint to be anonymous or to have contact information included.

Step 3: Fill the necessary fields to provide a detailed report of the complaint or breach in question.

Step 4: Provide any supporting documentation if possible through the File Dropper.

Step 5: Review your Complaint and create a password which can be used to revisit your complaint for details regarding the next step in the Complaint Process.

Sask Sport’s Dispute Resolution Officer

Sask Sport’s Dispute Resolution Officer can assist organizations with best practices regarding how to handle a complaint in sport.

Contact Nathan Cole:

Phone: (306) 780-9350

Email: ncole@sasksport.ca

OFFICE OF THE SPORT INTEGRITY COMMISSIONER (OSIC)

All persons under the umbrella of Saskatchewan Rugby, as well as those among Rugby Canada, will process Safe Sport complaints with the Office of the Sport Integrity Commissioner (OSIC), which serves as the central hub of Abuse-Free Sport. All other organizational members will continue to have access to Rugby Canada’s independent mechanism. 

Incidents that involved alleged Maltreatment or Prohibited Behaviour involving a UCCMS Participant must be reported to the OSIC and will be addressed purusuant to the OSIC’s policies and procedures.

OSIC shall determine the admissibility of such complaints in accordance with the relevant and applicable OSIC Guidelines regarding the initial review and preliminary assessment, at their sole discretion.

Saskatchewan Rugby acknowledges the obligation of Rugby Canada, as a Progeram Signatory to the OSIC, to ensure that any sanctions or measures imposed by the OSIC’s Director of Sanctions and Outcomes will be implemented and respected within Rugby Canada’s jurisdiction (including at the provincial, territorial and club level), once Rugby Canada receives appropriate notice of any sanction or measure from the OSIC and communicates the same to Saskatchewan Rugby. The Safe Sport Liaison shall communicate any OSIC sanctions or measures resulting in a suspension of one year or longer, received from Rugby Canada to Sask Sport.

Disputes managed by the OSIC will not be subject to appeals under Saskatchewan Rugby as it will be handled in accordance with the policies and procedures of the OSIC or the Director of Sanctions and Outcomes, as applicable.

ADDITIONAL SAFE SPORT TRAINING AND RESOURCES

Many communities and corporations make efforts to keep sport safe at every level. Using the resources and opportunities provided is crucial to breaking the stigmas, barriers, and maltreatment we see today. See below for resources provided for you and anyone else in the Saskatchewan Rugby community to grow awareness and help those in need.

Respect in Sport

The online RESPECT IN SPORT ACTIVITY LEADER PROGRAM educates youth leaders, coaches, oficials and participants (14-years and up) to recognize, understand and respond to issues of bullying, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.

The online RESPECT IN SPORT PARENT PROGRAM helps define a standard of behaviour for all parents to create a more rewarding, safe and respectful environment for everyone involved. 

Coaching Association of Canada

The COACHING ASSOCIATION OF CANADA offers a variety of training programs that empower coaches with knowledge and skills, promote ethics, foster positive attitudes, build competence, and increase the credibility and recognition of coaches.

Commit to Kids

The COMMIT TO KIDS program helps child-serving organizations reduce the risk of sexual abuse and create safer environments for children in their care.

Volunteer Canada

VOLUNTEER CANADA provides national leadership and expertise on volunteerism to increase the participation, quality, and diversity of volunteer experiences.

Sask Sport Resources

The Sask Sport offices aid in ensuring everyone’s voice is heard. The Sask Sport Resource Line is intended for providing information, bilingual support, resources and referrals for sport in Saskatchewan regarding possible bullying, abuse, harassment, discrimination or hazing. 

The List of approved Service Providers for investigations provides details on assesments and case resolutions to determine whether an allegation (or several allegations)should be heard by a discipline panel to decide whether a breach to any Safe Sport policy has been made. 

Click on the links to read more to gain insights and to get in contact! 

RECAP: U18 Westerns in Regina

Another Year Of U18 Is In The Books

Men’s and women’s teams from Alberta, Manitoba, BC and Saskatchewan were in Regina to compete in the U18 Western Championships of the August long weekend. 

On the men’s side, BC18 took gold with a 19-5 victory over Alberta Black. Meanwhile in an all-Alberta final on the women’s side, Alberta Black defeated Alberta White 27-12 to claim the top spot.

Bronze medals were awarded to Alberta White for their 12-5 victory over BC17 in men’s action, and women’s action saw BC18 shutout their fellow BC17 team 22-0.

Thanks to all of our volunteers and our sponsors for helping to make this event so successful.

RECAP: Saskatchewan Teams at University 7s Championships

Both the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina had men’s and women’s representation at the Canadian University Rugby 7s Championships from March 22-24 in Kingston, Ont.

Women's Results

University of Regina

Round Robin (2-1 record)

Queen’s 33, Regina 7

Regina 27, SLC 0

Regina 20, Montreal 15

Cup Playoffs

QF: Guelph 27, Regina 5

Consolation SF: U of A 48, Regina 0

University of Saskatchewan

Round Robin (1-2 record)

Guelph 29, Saskatchewan 0

Concordia 46, Saskatchewan 0

Saskatchewan 15, Humber 12

Challenge Trophy Playoffs

QF: Saskatchewan 35, SLC 0

SF: Western 19, Saskatchewan 17

Men's Results

University of Regina

Round Robin (1-2 record)

Regina 17, Trent 12

Bishop’s 20, Regina 0

Queen’s 36, Regina 0

Cup Playoffs

QF: Bishop’s 27, Regina 0

Consolation SF: Guelph 31, Regina 14

University of Saskatchewan

Round Robin (1-2 record)

Quebec Selects 21, Saskatchewan 14

Waterloo 27, Saskatchewan 7

Saskatchewan 28, RMC 5

Cup Playoffs

QF: Concordia 19, Saskatchewan 12

Consolation SF: Quebec Selects 24, Saskatchewan 12