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Ref Memories

    Taking a look at other infractions, following along from last week. High sticking. A player is to be in control of his stick thus hitting an opponent in the head with your stick is a minor penalty. It can also be called as a double minor, a major or a match penalty. Now one thing to look for is if a player is bent forward and a player hits the player along the boards and his stick comes in contact with the other player's head, is that a high stick? In my opinion, no, that is not a penalty! It is just a natural state that the player got hit. 

    I remember Garry Bowles from Elkhorn was penalized a number of times for elbowing. The problem was if you were not figuring it out, Garry was tall and many players would try to scoot underneath him to get the puck to the net. Garry could not help the fact he was tall and although it would appear he was elbowing the opposition, it was just his natural height that made it appear that way. No penalty should have been assessed, but I saw him called for that infraction, far too many times

    I have watched some minor hockey this season and have seen some referees that just need experience and confidence in their game that they are making correct judgements in their penalty selection. Like players and coaches, officials need coaching and instruction as well. I have always said two things, the importance of positioning and hustle. As an official you are getting paid for the game you are officiating, hustle at all times, keep your hands out of your pockets and just give it your all. This will cover a multitude of mistakes! 

    Another difficult call is the slash. At what point is it a slash? Is it a tap on the stick or the gloves, is it a hack?  What is the determining factor on whether a penalty is issued? Again this is a difficult penalty to call as it involves judgement. Two officials may have a difference in judgement about any given play. The NHL has adopted anything on the hands as a penalty. I do not necessarily agree with that, but as long as they are consistent with that call, I am good with it. The players are the ones that need to adapt to that particular call.

    Consistency is what it is all about. To all you young referee's out there, get it established what penalty calls are nonnegotiable, this is always going to be a penalty and stick with it. This will help you become consistent! Work hard on your game and give the best effort you can give each and every game. We need you officials, otherwise there is no game. 

    I hope all the officials are having a great year and enjoy their time on the ice. You are a team as well, encourage one another. Talk about the game you are working and most important get into your rule book often throughout the season. Until next time!