Hockey World Supports Officials

Anyone who knows me clearly understands that I for one continue to promote officials in all sports while we have far too many in today’s world who can only ridicule and condemn officials in today’s crazy mixed-up world who take sports far too seriously.

Parents put extra pressure on their son to excel in hopes of making the pro ranks, possibly in hopes of repaying them for all the money they have invested in the sport.

I have often heard that sports and politics go hand in hand and recently we have witnessed this first hand which is sad when high power individuals want nothing but attention being the focal point.

While it would be nice if everyone would or could get along we all know it won’t happen and recently in the Seattle area we witnessed this from a deranged parent who came on the ice and struck not one but two young hockey officials.

His actions went viral and yes he was charged but chances are he’ll get a slap on the wrist promising not to do it again. WOW!!!!

In an act of professionalism the Seattle Kraken stepped up and so did the officiating community.

In conversation over the weekend with both Larry Krause and others we heard about the event taking place yesterday (Sunday) in Seattle.

Respect shown from everyone and special “thanks” to everyone involved and fingers crossed it won’t happen again – but WHO AM I FOOLING?????

Enjoy the read:

As many of you witnessed, a few weeks ago, two young officials were attacked while working a local amateur hockey game in Seattle. In moments like these, we all face a choice—whether to step up or step aside.

This game has been such a blessing to me,  and I feel incredibly fortunate for the opportunities it has provided. But more than anything, 

I owe it to the people I’ve met along the way—lifelong friends whom I cherish dearly.

Last week, I reached out to one of those friends, Colin Campbell, President of the WHL Seattle Thunderbirds, to share an idea Ben Savage (local Amatuer official) and I had come up with to honor these two young men for their bravery and the way they handled that difficult situation. Without hesitation, 

Colin, in true hockey fashion, asked, “What can we do to make this a success?” His generosity and willingness to help were immediate, and together with Ben, we sent out an invitation to all local hockey officials to gather at the Renton Round Table Pizza (special thanks to TJ for hosting) for a show of support.

Over 140 Officials responded, eager to support the cause and stand in solidarity with Henry and Lucas. 

After the gathering, the group proudly wore their jerseys and attended the Thunderbirds game that afternoon/evening.

A heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you—no matter your story, your sport (yes, even soccer), or your background—who has supported, volunteered, or helped in any way. You’ve chosen to be part of the solution, not part of the problem, when it comes to violence in youth sports towards Officials. 

Your actions make a difference, and your support means the world.

Thanks as well to the WHL Officials working the TC Americans Game vs Seattle Thunderbirds for stopping in…All Class guy’s.

Thank you for what you stand for.

Vaughan Rody

Retired NHL Official

Current Faceoff Coach for True North