Saying minor hockey games can't happen without them, the Ontario Minor Hockey Association is unveiling a new initiative to reduce the abuse of young officials.
"Many of our young officials begin officiating as a way to stay involved and give back to the sport they love," said OMHA President Peter Harmsen. "Our goal is to ensure our young officials are provided the opportunity to grow and develop in a safe and respectful environment."
Unfortunately, that's often not the case. A recent survey in the U.S. found that 70 per cent of officials rank love of sport as their top reason for officiating, and 55 per cent rank verbal abuse as their number one reason for leaving.
That's why referees under 18 will start wearing green armbands. The bands are easily visible to those in the stands watching the game.
"We hope the Green Arm Band initiative will reduce some of the challenges and barriers the younger officials will face," continued Harmsen.
There were 1,911 penalties called last year for disrespectful and abusive behaviour and physical harassment of officials.
In other leagues, the number of officials has dropped. That hasn't been the case in the OMHA, but the league said the number of penalties called shows the need to take proactive action.
"It is meant to remind all stakeholders involved in our game that the recipient of their anger and ridicule is often a minor, and they should be shown respect and patience," said OMHA Referee Chair Dave Wedlake.
The initiative ties in with the OMHA's recent #NoRefNoGame and #HockeyIsFun campaigns.
"I hope it helps create a better environment for officials in hockey where coaches will stop yelling and complaining about calls all the time," said Elijah Frasier, a 17-year-old official.
The Ontario Minor Hockey Association has 90,000 participants.