Attention all DMHL Coaches, Trainers and other Volunteers for the 2025-2026 Season
The Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) requires that before each season begins, ALL coaches, trainers and other volunteers use the OHF Screening Submission Portal to either:
- Submit a new Vulnerable Sector (Police) Check Document (VSC) if your previous one has expired
AND / OR
- Fill out the annual Declaration Form
Before clicking the OHF Screen Portal Link below, please review these important points, and the FAQ below for more important info.
- Log into HCR Spordle to get your HCR number from your profile as this is needed for the Portal
- Send an email to [email protected] to let us know you have submitted the VSC or filled out the declaration form.
- If you have a new VSC to submit:
- For 2025-2026, it does NOT need to be in PDF format
- If your VSC is a PDF, it CANNOT be password protected – it must be able to be opened by the OHF without a password
- Do not upload it as document directly to your Spordle Profile. This will not be accepted by the OHF - it must be submitted using the Portal link below
- Submit a copy to the REC PARK MAIN OFFICE for their records
CLICK HERE to access the OHF Screening Portal to submit your new VSC, or to sign the Declaration Form.
You will receive an email from the OHF within 1 week if your submission has been accepted and your Spordle profile will be updated automatically
For help on using the PORTAL and info on the VSC requirements, see these OHF links
https://www.ohf.on.ca/risk-management/vulnerable-sector-checks/
https://www.ohf.on.ca/media/dwcbt1a3/instructions-ohf-screening-submission-form-and-document-upload.pdf
Applying for a new VSC
If you live in the City of Hamilton, Click Here To Visit the Hamilton Police Website for more information on obtaining a VSC. If you live outside of the City of Hamilton, please visit the police service website of your local jurisdiction.
Please note that some Police Services will require a request form, so submit this form when applying:
ohf-letter-requesting-vsc.pdf
DMHL FAQ
What is a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)?
A VSC (aka Police Check) is a document that is obtained from your local police service that outlines any convictions that may disqualify an individual from taking part in a volunteer position that involves minors (children). All Minor Hockey Organizations in Ontario require this document, and it must it approved by the OHF before you can participate as a volunteer
When do I need a new VSC?
A VSC is valid for 3 YEARS. If you are new to coaching, you will need to apply for one.
If you do not know the expiry of your previous VSC that you submitted, then you need to log into your Spordle Profile to see your status.
For a Help video, click the link below, then click Check Your Screen Status In Spordle
VSC Instructions | Ontario Hockey Federation
Where do I apply for a VSC?
If you live in the City of Hamilton, Click Here To Visit the Hamilton Police Website for more information on obtaining a VSC. If you live outside of the City of Hamilton, please visit the police service website of your local jurisdiction.
Please note that some Police Services will require a request form, so submit this form when applying:
ohf-letter-requesting-vsc.pdf
How long does it take to get a VSC from the police service?
In Hamilton, expect a minimum of 30 days, and it will take longer if the police service requires fingerprints or apply in September / October. Therefore, go early to get one!
Is there a cost for applying for a VSC?
Most police services charge a fee. You may request to be reimbursed by the Dofasco Rec Park when you also submit a copy and the receipt to them
Does my VSC file format need to be a PDF?
No. Unlike the 2024-2025 season where a VSC needed to be a PDF, a JPG or other formats are now accepted for 2025-2026.
However, if Your VSC is a PDF Document, it CANNOT be password protected – it must be able to be opened by the OHF without a password
If you need to convert your PDF to another format, you will need to use a PDF converter app.
What is the Declaration Form
If your VSC is not expired, you will still need to sign the annual declaration form on the Portal that indicates you do not have any convictions since your last VSC
What happens if I do not have an approved VSC document
If you do not submit the document, then as per the OHF policy, DMHL won’t be able to officially add you to the Hockey Canada roster. If you are not on the roster then you cannot be on the bench for games, tournaments etc, and therefore you will not be able to continue to be involved as a volunteer
When is the DMHL deadline to get a VSC uploaded?
DMHL will require a VSC to be uploaded by November 1 so that we can ensure our teams / rosters are set with the appropriate number of bench staff.
I have a VSC for another position or for my place of employment. Can I use this?
Yes, if the VSC document issue date is within 6 months of submission
I have an offense that may show up on my VSC check. Will this disqualify me?
Please see this OHF link, Section 7
https://ohf.on.ca/media/bxenh2ik/ohf-screening-policy.pdf
Do I still need to submit a copy of my VSC to the Dofasco Rec Park
Yes. Please submit a copy to the Dofasco Rec. It is the policy of ArcelorMittal Dofasco that all volunteers for minor programs still submit their copies
I’m having difficulty with submitting the VSC documents to the OHF. What do I do
You can review the help documents and videos
https://alliancehockey.com/Pages/7491/OHF_SCREENING_/
If you have still having difficulty, then please send an email to the registrar, and we can assist you