The program began in Quebec in 2020 and has been picking up across the country. The Green Armband Initiative has finally found its way to hockey rinks in Newfoundland and Labrador. Marystown Minor Hockey Association launched it's Green Armbands Thursday, March 2, 2023.
Young officials under the age of 18 are wearing green armbands to let spectators, coaches and players know they're minors. It is meant to remind parents, coaches and fans that the recipient of their anger and ridicule is a teenager, and should be treated accordingly.
Regardless of which official is abused or harassed, suspension penalties are now doubled for verbal abuse of an official, if a green armband official is on the ice. Hockey NL hopes the program will keep the confidence of young officials intact and lead to greater retention among hockey officials.
