AN OPEN LETTER FROM A LOCAL REFEREE...
Abuse of officials has been a common concern in many sports, which has officials leaving at alarming rates. 70% ranked “love of the sport” as their primary reason for officiating, but 55% ranked verbal abuse as the number one reason for quitting. https://www.omha.net/news_article/show/1317791
Dear members,
I recently wrote to a neighboring hockey association regarding the inappropriate behaviour of their parents and coaches towards our referees.
For context, Huntsville Minor Hockey has had recent games cancelled due to a lack of referees and we have struggled to recruit interested candidates to boost our numbers. We lost multiple referees from last year. There is currently a small group of committed, hard working referees covering a large amount of games to keep minor hockey running as best we can. I am asking all members to keep this in mind as they play, coach and watch games this year. Your behaviour can directly impact our ability to retain and attract referees going forward.
I would like to remind all our members that you represent Huntsville Minor Hockey when at any hockey related activities. As such, you are obligated to conduct yourself in line with our code of conduct and the OMHA’s code of conduct. The code of conduct specifically talks about respecting official’s decisions and treating all persons with respect and dignity.
With your help, I hope we can set the example for MPSHL as a centre that respects all others, including officials, and creates a positive hockey environment for our youth.
Thank you,
Brett McCulloch
Referee Director - HMHA & Game Referee
HMHA COACH CODE OF CONDUCT
HC FAIR PLAY PARENT CODE
OMHA CODE OF CONDUCT