Hockey Nova Scotia in co-operation with Kevin Stubbington, founder of the S.T.O.P. program, have presented the S.T.O.P. program to all registered hockey players in the province of Nova Scotia in the form of a S.T.O.P. crest to be worn on players' jerseys. In addition to wearing the crest, players, coaches and parents are expected to agree to the Fair Play Pledge, in which all parties agree to a make genuine commitment to making hockey a safer sport to play. This will result in a more enjoyable game for both the participant and the spectator.

During the past ten years there has been a marked increase in the number of serious injuries as a result of checking from behind. Hockey Canada has recently stated that this is the most serious problem that they have had to address in the past fifty years. Severe spinal cord injuries resulting from accidents involving sports such as hockey, football, rugby, diving and horse back riding have resulted in paralysis, thus leaving our athletes permanently injured or even more catastrophic - loss of life.

This is a growing problem in Nova Scotia and we must work together to both reduce and eliminate these injuries from occurring.

The S.T.O.P. crest worn directly above the number and below the name of the individual or sponsor at eye level is clearly visible to all participants and is a reminder not to check from behind thus eliminating both the penalty and serious injury to the opposing player.

Shown below is the correct placement of the S.T.O.P patch (Put jersey w/"Watch My Back" under it). By signing the Fair Play Pledge, participants are agreeing to abide by the following Fair Play Code:

Players: I will respect the safety of other players by playing by the rules of the game. I will respect my opponents. I will do my best to be a true team player. I will respect my coaches and officials at all times and I will remember that they are providing me the opportunity to learn and play the game of hockey.

Coaches: I will teach my players to play fairly and to respect the rules, officials and opponents. I will act as a positive role model, provide both positive reinforcement and recommendations to players to improve their hockey skill level. I will not tolerate disrespect to self, team-mates, officials and opponents. I will ensure that player safety comes first and foremost at all times and make sure that both facilities and equipment surpass minimal standards of safety.

Parents: I will be positive and supportive to all players, coaches and officials who are participating in the game. I will respect and show appreciation to the volunteer coaches, officials and team and league executive officers. I will encourage my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.

The S.T.O.P. logo and program serves to remind everyone of the commitment to FAIR PLAY. The shared responsibility of everyone involved in Minor Hockey is skill development and the satisfaction of the players. These goals will pave the way for better hockey, better attitudes, pleasure with the sport and assist in the creation of an improved society for us all, through the realization that whether we win or lose, we win or lose graciously, for success is never final and failure is never fatal.