We at QTMHA would like to emphasize the importance of supporting referees in the sport of hockey. Referees play a crucial role in ensuring fair play and upholding the integrity of the game. They are tasked with enforcing the rules, maintaining order on the ice, and making split-second decisions that can impact the outcome of a game.

It is essential for players, coaches, and fans to show respect towards referees, even in the heat of competition. Disputes and disagreements are natural in sports, but it is imperative to handle them in a respectful and professional manner. Referees are human and, like anyone else, they can make mistakes. However, it is important to remember that they are doing their best to officiate the game fairly and impartially.
By supporting referees and showing them respect, we contribute to a positive and sportsmanlike environment in hockey. Let us all work together to promote good sportsmanship and fair play, both on and off the ice.

REFEREE COORDINATOR

GREEN ARMBAND INITIATIVE

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Starting in September 2024, all officials aged 15 and under will be provided with a green armband after attending their in-person certification clinic. Once all clinics have concluded in December, all officials will be required to wear their green armband for all levels of hockey.

The green armband represents the idea that these officials are new to the officiating world in terms of their age and are learning and developing. Ultimately, the goal is to highlight that these are young officials providing a service to the game of hockey in a public space and should be respected in that role.

This initiative will help support officials at the grassroots level, who, like the players on the ice, are learning their roles and developing a passion. Young officials should have the opportunity to work in a safe environment.

This new initiative aims to eliminate abuse of officials from players, coaches, and fans. This will be achieved by educating everyone involved in the game that it is just that—a game—and that officials are young, learning, and doing their best. Verbal abuse and negative experiences for officials must stop, and the focus should be on fun in the game for all involved.

When at a hockey game, and you see officials wearing green armbands, it is important to understand that this does not indicate a level of qualification or experience for an official; it simply indicates the age of the official and helps advocate to the hockey community to recognize that the officials working that game are young officials—someone’s son, daughter, or sibling.

Educate others on the Green Armband Initiative and the meaning behind the symbol of the green armbands. Understand that although yelling at officials was often common practice, we need to change this mindset and the actions behind it. Recognize that there is a person wearing that jersey, someone who has been training to develop and keep the game as safe and fair as possible for all participants. Share the idea that we need the adults in the rinks to act like adults and let the kids enjoy the game they are playing and officiating.

For more information, visit:

https://hockeysask.ca/officials/getting-started-officiating/green-armbands-initiative