Hockey Calgary has questions over new country-wide dressing room policy

A new policy put in place by Hockey Canada last month regarding dressing room requirements is being met with confusion from local hockey authorities, who say they have received limited guidance as to how to best implement the requirements.

The policy, which came into effect on Sept. 12, according to Hockey Canada's website, outlines that players must wear a base layer at all times in dressing rooms where more than one person is present.

Hockey Canada describes a base layer as shorts and a t-shirt, or compression shorts and shirt or sports bra. Players are encouraged to wear similar "minimum attire" while showering in open-concept showers, such as swimwear.

The "rule of two" is also mandated in the policy, meaning that two adults must be present inside dressing rooms or immediately outside them to monitor players' behaviour and "ensure it is free of any discrimination, harassment, bullying, or other forms of maltreatment." 

It applies to all minor hockey teams sanctioned by Hockey Canada and its members. 

Kevin Kobelka, the executive director of Hockey Calgary, said he received no direct communication about the policy from Hockey Canada and found out about it through the media. 

"It kind of blindsided us," said Kobelka.

"So we've been asking a lot of questions over the last week or so trying to determine the proper direction to go in the interim until we can get more answers from our governing bodies." 

Kobelka said Hockey Calgary has been directing its questions through Hockey Alberta but is still waiting to hear back. 

In the meantime, Kobelka said that Hockey Calgary has implemented new rules based on its interpretation of the policy. Players must wear a base layer 30 minutes before their ice session begins and 15