• Varsity & JV teams are designed for competitive play. Players should expect that game situations, special teams, and opponent strength may affect playing time.

• Coaches make situational decisions during games that prioritize the team’s success, which may result in certain players receiving more or less ice time.

• Attendance & Punctuality: Players must consistently attend and actively participate in practices and games. Absences or frequent tardiness may reduce playing opportunities.

• Effort & Attitude: Demonstrated hustle in practices and games, a strong work ethic, and a positive, team-first mindset are core factors in earning ice time.

• Role Execution: Ice time is based not only on offensive & defensive performance but also on a player’s commitment to their assigned role (e.g., defensive responsibilities, penalty killing, forechecking, etc.).

• Game Needs: Coaches may adjust lines and ice time in real time to respond strategically to the flow and intensity of the game.

Earning ice time is an important part of player development:

• Players must take ownership of their growth, continually working to improve their hockey IQ, physical conditioning, and team contribution.

• Coaches are committed to helping every player progress and will work with individuals to set realistic goals and offer feedback.

Player-First Communication

• Players are encouraged to speak directly with coaches about their role, performance, and how to earn more ice time.

• Coaches will follow USA Hockey’s best practices by fostering open, constructive, and respectful dialogue.

• Parents may reach out with questions, following club and team communication protocols, but players are expected to initiate discussions about their individual development.

When managing the game-day roster, player health and safety are the club’s highest priority. Any player who is unable to participate due to injury or illness will be designated as a scratch for that game, which will take precedence over any healthy scratch rotations.

Medical Scratches: If a player is medically unable to play (due to injury or illness), they will be classified as an “injury/illness scratch.” These absences are determined based on input from the player, parent/guardian (if applicable), medical professionals, or the coaching staff.

• No Penalty: Injury or illness scratches do not count against the player in future healthy scratch rotations. These are not disciplinary or performance-based, and the player will return to their normal roster status once cleared to play.

• Return to Play: After being scratched for medical reasons, players may resume participation upon approval from a qualified healthcare provider or the coaching staff, following USA Hockey’s guidelines for safety and return-to-play protocols.

• Communication: Prompt, open communication about illness or injury is encouraged between families and the coaching staff to allow for responsible roster planning and proper player care.

By prioritizing health-related scratches, MIHC reinforces its commitment to player welfare while ensuring that healthy scratch decisions are fair and transparent for all team members.