Supporting Youth Officials: The Green Armband Initiative in the NWT

Three young officials, Mark Wagner (referee) and Emmitt Kincaid and Nate Lalonde (linespersons), stand proudly on the ice, wearing their black-and-white stripes with something extra, a green armband. This small piece of fabric represents a big message: respect youth officials.

Launched by Hockey NWT, in Yellowknife, during the 2023-2024 season, the Green Armband Initiative was inspired by national examples and tailored to Northern realities. It is a simple yet powerful step to help protect and retain young officials, some as young as 12 years old, from the pressures of verbal abuse and unfair criticism.

What does the green armband mean?

“If you see green, you are looking at someone under 18,” explains Rob Gau, Hockey NWT. These young officials may be working as referees or linespersons during your local games. The armband acts as a visual cue to players, coaches, and spectators: these are youth in training, respect and encouragement are needed, not heckling. The initiative reminds the community that officials, no matter their age, deserve a safe and positive environment.

Why it matters

Many associations struggle to recruit and retain referees. Verbal abuse, while often dismissed as “part of the game," is one of the top reasons why young people quit officiating. “Officials should not be willing to put themselves in environments where abuse, even if rare, is tolerated,” Rob shared. “This initiative helps shift the culture and gives youth a visible layer of support.” And it seems to be working. Youth officials report feeling seen, respected, and appreciated. Some have even purchased their own green armbands, considering it part of their uniform. It has become a badge of pride.

How you can help

Whether you’re in the stands or on the bench, you play a role in shaping the hockey environment. Remember:

• Respect the officials, especially our youth.

• Lead by example, your reactions are being watched.

• Support initiatives like this by understanding their intent.

As the Green Armband Initiative enters its third season, communities like Yellowknife and Hay River are showing what it looks like to nurture young leaders in sport. And that’s something we can all stand behind.