As the Atlantic under-18 female hockey championship unfolds in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador, an all-female referee team is leading the officiation of a championship of this scale for the first time, marking a historic moment.

One of the referees shared her insight on the significance of having an all-female team overseeing the games. She believes that female referees bring a unique perspective to the championship, as many have personal experience playing the sport. Their deep understanding of the intricacies of female hockey allows for a more nuanced and empathetic approach to officiating.

Most of the women officiating the games came up to the ranks after playing the game, before later turning their attention to officiating. Currently, there are over eighty female referees and the number continues to grow as newer players are coming up after playing and looking for ways to stay involved with the game.

Natash Perry, a referee with over 16 years of involvement in hockey, finds great satisfaction in her role. She appreciates the opportunities it affords her to learn, travel, and maintain a close relationship with the sport she loves. Perry’s experience underscores the positive impact that staying involved in hockey can have on individuals, offering them new ways to grow and contribute to the sport.

There are emerging trends as women are getting more opportunities to work along the sidelines of hockey games, while others are getting assignments such as wearing the stripes and officiating the Atlantic hockey games.

Source: NTV