The Shift Forward
The Shift Forward
Frequently Asked Questons
What is Shift Forward?
Shift Forward is Hockey Alberta's new parent education program designed to promote positive sport experiences for players, parents, coaches, officials, and volunteers. It replaces the Respect in Sport Parent Program previously required for hockey registration.
Why is Respect in Sport no longer being used?
Hockey Alberta has transitioned to Shift Forward as part of a province-wide initiative focused on creating positive, respectful, and supportive hockey environments. The program reflects current research and best practices in youth sport and emphasizes the important role parents play in their child's hockey journey.
Do I need to complete Shift Forward?
Yes. Hockey Alberta requires one parent or guardian from each family to complete the Shift Forward program before their player can be fully registered and eligible to participate.
I already completed Respect in Sport. Do I still need to take Shift Forward?
Yes, but if your Respect In Sport is still valid, you do not need to take the Shift Forward until your current program expires. If you haven't taken Respect in Sport, or are expired, you will need to take the Shift Forward program.
How long does the program take?
The Shift Forward program is designed to be completed online and typically takes approximately 30–45 minutes to finish.
How often do I need to complete Shift Forward?
Currently, Hockey Alberta requires the program to be completed once. Any future renewal requirements will be communicated by Hockey Alberta and SPS Fuzion if changes occur.
How do I access the program?
Instructions and registration links are provided through Hockey Alberta and will be available during the player registration process. There is also a link to the program for both coaches and parents at the bottom of the page.
What happens if I do not complete the program?
Players may not be eligible to participate in practices, evaluations, or games until the required parent certification has been completed and recorded.
Is there a cost to complete Shift Forward?
Any fees associated with the program are determined by Hockey Alberta.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
For technical issues or questions regarding the Shift Forward program itself, please refer to Hockey Alberta's support resources.
What if I hold multiple roles for a team, such as a parent and a coach?
You will need to complete both programs as each covers different subject matter.
The Shift Forward Parent Program is Hockey Canada's new Safe Sport education program, replacing Respect in Sport for parents and guardians.
Designed to create a positive and supportive hockey environment, The Shift Forward helps parents better understand their role in their child's hockey experience and provides practical tools to encourage healthy athlete development both on and off the ice.
What Parents Will Learn
The program focuses on:
- Creating positive and respectful sport environments
- Supporting athlete well-being and mental health
- Understanding safe sport principles
- Promoting inclusion, respect, and belonging
- Encouraging healthy communication between players, parents, coaches, and officials
- Managing expectations and supporting long-term athlete development
- Recognizing and preventing maltreatment, bullying, harassment, and abuse in sport
Why It Matters
Parents play a vital role in shaping the experiences of young athletes. The Shift Forward Parent Program helps families foster a culture where players can develop confidence, resilience, sportsmanship, and a lifelong love of hockey.
By completing this training, parents contribute to creating a safe, welcoming, and positive environment for all participants in the game.
SPS Fuzion's Commitment
SPS Fuzion is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering hockey experience for every athlete. We support Hockey Canada's Safe Sport initiatives and encourage all parents to actively participate in creating an environment where female athletes can thrive.
Together, we can ensure that hockey remains a positive experience focused on development, teamwork, respect, and fun.