Hockey Quebec armbands for refs to limit verbal abuse

CALGARY (CityNews) – In an effort to reduce verbal outbursts towards minor referees in hockey, Hockey Quebec has implemented a new strategy.

Referees under the age of 18 in select regions of Quebec, have been the first to wear a green armband on their left arm as they officiate games, instead of the usual orange band.

Hockey Quebec started this concept in hopes of trying to make the game better for everyone. “We were concerned about a few situations that happened in the rinks, and when people are yelling at young kids, and they probably don’t know that these kids are under 18,” said Hockey Quebec Officials Coordinator Marc Maisonneuve.

With information on the web, and posters around arenas, Maisonneuve added that changes have been noticed by parents attending games. “It’s very positive right now. The people in our area are noticing that people are not yelling that much as they were in previous years.”

Changes in referees have been seen as well. “he young refs were reffing with a manner on the ice. It helped them out to establish that credibility and that the older guys were helping the young ones too. So, I’m pretty sure that will help them along the road,” said Maisonneuve.

For Hockey Alberta the thought of different coloured armbands for youth officials hasn’t been considered. “We are definitely interested in learning how the project in Montreal impacts parent behaviour over the course of a season,” said Brett Kelly, Officiating Manager for Hockey Alberta.

“The key to the success of any initiative of this type is ensuring that everyone understands the meaning of the armbands, why they have been implemented, and the behaviour that should be occurring towards an official, regardless of an arm band being worn or not.”

Hockey Alberta requires all parents to complete a Respect in Sports certification prior to signing their child up for hockey. “Hockey is an emotional game, and the emotion is one of the reasons that makes it such a great game and there will always be occasional outbursts,” added Kelly.

“It is also important to remember that it doesn’t matter the age or experience level of the official on the ice, it is never appropriate to verbally or physically attack an official.

“It is important to ensure that young officials have a chance to develop in a competitive but positive atmosphere where they can learn. Hockey Alberta provides training and support, through instruction, mentorship and supervision programs during the season to help with this development.”

For Hockey Quebec, the real test for the green armbands is right around the corner, as leagues will soon be entering playoffs. “It doesn’t matter if the team’s been eliminated, if the parents will just not yell because they see that armband, it’s really going to help,” said Maisonneuve.

As with most sports, Hockey Quebec and Hockey Alberta agree that verbal outbursts will not be tolerated and they disrupt the game and other spectators.

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