Breaking the Ice: Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention to Improve Hockey Culture

This current research study is a randomized controlled trial evaluating the effects of an educational module on improving hockey culture. 150 rep-level minor hockey players, U12 and over, from three Ontario minor hockey associations will serve as participants in the study. Players will be randomized into intervention and control groups, with the intervention group completing the online module and both groups completing pre‑ and post‑intervention surveys. The surveys are designed with research-validated statements and questions. Primary outcome measures include the mean change in hockey culture attitudes measured on Likert scales. Secondary outcome measures consist of examining differences by age, level of play, and coach endorsement. Confidentiality will be assured by matching participants and survey responses with identification numbers. The study aims to determine whether a structured online educational module can shift attitudes, reduce hazing, bullying, and discrimination in a minor hockey environment.