The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
The grey areas of hockey officiating should become black and white with the new enforcement of rules set by Hockey Canada. "It almost takes us back to the grass roots and a penalty will be called a penalty no matter what time of the game," said Doug Lawrence, referee-in-chief for the SJHL. Lawrence also said it will eliminate the judgment call on referees late in the game. This is something he feels will make their jobs a lot easier. "Hockey Canada has viewed a lot in the NHL and has developed a standard to be accepted at all levels," he said. Now the league will take the step to teach their officials. In making this move to improve the game, the SJHL has full support from coaches and board of governors. While being strict with calling penalties, Lawrence said he believes it will alter the defensive style the SJHL is known to have. "I think it's going to change and it will change players teams look for," he stated. "I see a lot of positives coming." While Flin Flon Bomber fans are known to give it to officials when they blow a call, Lawrence said time will be needed and there might be an outcry with too many calls. "Give it a couple of years and see Ð it will make our league and game phenomenal," he added. "It will make it that much better." Bombers coach-GM Doug Stokes agreed. "If you watch the NHL, it brings more excitement," he said. Stokes' largest concern is growing pains. "It boils down on how coaches emphasize on ice positioning," he explained. When players check, Stokes stated they will have to keep their hands down, especially to the head as those fouls will penalize players with a minor penalty and misconduct or a major penalty and game misconduct for checks to the head resulting in concussions or other injuries as noted in the guidelines. Stokes said he feels the change will make the job for officials more difficult. "I hope the game doesn't deteriorate," Stokes said. The Bombers coach commended the NHL and its referees for staying consistent with making calls the entire year. His only criticism is that making calls have "been overboard at times." "It's important for the media, fans, and players to buy into the change and eliminate negativity. "Everybody must support it," Stokes added. "There will be lots of trial and error."
