Minor Hockey

Alexander Sangara, Matthew Kape, & Noah Chen

thanKs to and white the blacK stripes

The Arbutus Club Minor Hockey Association is proud of its officiating program and the opportunity it provides members, 12 and up, who are interested in refereeing the game of hockey

Officiating is an outstanding program to teach an individual confidence, problem solving, responsibility, and the ability to manage difficult situations. At the Club, we take pride in developing our officials by bringing the individual along slowly and steadily building their confidence. We're interested in our officials being in positions to succeed and this has led to a very healthy program filled with bright, up-and-coming referees. Our most experienced officials are welcoming and willing to work with training officials, and the cycle of development happens naturally with their help, and guidance. We look at each game a referee officiates as an opportunity for development and learning. When everyone works together, and learns from each other, the program is at it's strongest. We have many officials with years of experience, led by members like Mike Weiler, who has put countless hours into volunteering. Mike has graciously helped lay the foundation for our program, and takes much pride in watching our referees flourish.

It's people like Mike Weiler who make the officiating program a success.

In recent years, interest in officiating has declined across Canada due to many reasons, including verbal abuse from the crowd and the coaches, leading to increased pressure. At The Arbutus Club, we are proud to do all we can to support each official in every situation, as well as having zero tolerance for any on-ice verbal abuse. This mentality allows our officials to go out and officiate each game to the best of their ability, without fear they are not being supported. With this approach, our program allows growth and our officials develop in confidence and ability. Next time you walk by the rink and see two hockey teams on the ice playing hard and having fun, think about the team of individuals who move the game along, keeping it fair, and everyone safe. They are the ones in black and white stripes! ♦