Respecting the Referees: A Key Part of the Game

At Champions Hockey, we spend a lot of time talking about skill development, teamwork, and commitment to the game. But one area that deserves just as much attention, both for players and spectators, is respect for the officials.

Referees are a crucial part of hockey. Without them, there’s no organized game. They make hundreds of split-second decisions every time the puck drops, often under pressure from players, coaches, and fans. It is not an easy role, and they deserve our respect.

Why Respecting Referees Matters

1. They Keep the Game Safe - Referees are there to ensure the game is played within the rules. From calling penalties to managing dangerous situations, their decisions are focused on safety and fairness for everyone on the ice.

2. Many Officials Are Young - Across minor hockey, many referees are still teenagers or young adults. For some, officiating is their first job and a way to stay involved in the sport they love. Imagine being 14 or 15 years old and having to make quick calls while grown adults yell from the stands. That is the reality for a lot of officials. According to Hockey Canada, nearly 40% of referees are under 18 years old.

3. They’re Human, Too - Just like players make mistakes such as missing an open net, a bad pass, or a turnover, referees may miss a call or see something differently. The difference is that referees do not have teammates to pick them up or cheer them on. Our respect and understanding helps them keep confidence and focus.

4. Without Refs, There’s No Game - Hockey already faces a shortage of referees in many communities. Verbal abuse from the stands or disrespect on the ice drives many officials to walk away from the game. In fact, surveys have shown that over 60% of officials quit within their first two years, with poor treatment being the number one reason. Supporting and respecting referees ensures that our kids, and future generations, can continue to enjoy organized hockey.

5. We Set the Example - Players learn not just from their coaches, but from the adults around them. When parents and spectators show respect for officials, even after a tough call, it teaches athletes an important life lesson about composure, resilience, and sportsmanship.

   
   

What We Can Do

• Players: Focus on the next shift, not the last call. Channel your energy into the game.

• Spectators: Cheer for effort and skill, not against referees. Remember, most are kids themselves.

• Coaches & Parents: Model calm and respectful behavior. Officials notice, and so do young athletes.

At Champions Hockey, we believe in developing not only skilled players but also good teammates, leaders, and role models. Respecting referees is a part of that journey.