The Green Armband Initiative is often misunderstood around the rink.
Most people are aware that referees wearing Green Armbands are under the age of 18, however it needs to be highlighted that the wearing of a green armband reflects the Official’s age and NOT their skill level as an Official. ALL Officials under the age of 18 are required to wear the green armband regardless of their skill level or level of hockey that they are working.
The intention of the green armband initiative is to improve the working environment for young referees and reduce the harassment and abuse of hockey officials.
About a third of the referees with the Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA) are under age 18, and they're now sporting green armbands on the ice to help reduce harassment and abuse from coaches, players and spectators.
The Green Armband is a signal and offers younger officials an added layer of protection to feel more comfortable while working on the ice. When situations escalate, regardless of which official is abused or harassed, suspension penalties are now doubled, if a green armband official is on the ice.
Referees are an important part of our game. Let's be supportive and encouraging of our young referees looking to learn the game as an official.