Players, parents, and coaches causing massive ref shortage in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Youth Hockey programs are being dealt with a difficult task in finding refs. Apparently there is a severe referee shortage, which has been caused by abuse by coaches, players, and parents.

Long-time hockey referee Eugene Binda says that he has seen a lot in his 40 years of officiating.

"Chokeholds, punched a couple of times. I think that's what is escalating the fear out there because we don't know what people are going to do anymore."

Massachusetts hockey has already begun its season, and there have already been plenty of interesting incidents.

One incident included a police escort after a game featuring kids that were only 8-years-old. Another incident resulted in a female referee quitting because of parent harassment.

"These are just a few examples of what is going on every weekend,» Mass Hockey said. «The constant harassment over calls, over the split-second decisions they are making on the ice has taken its toll."

Binda believes that there is way too much pressure on the kids, and that could be contributing to officials being pestered more than usual.

"I think there's intense pressure on kids to succeed, and if a ref gets in the way, it's not the kid's fault; they take it out on the official calling it," said Binda. "He said the goal is to make sure each and every player gets to play the next game."

Mass Hockey is trying their best to keep players, parents, and coaches under control, but steps need to be taken in order to stop these incidents.

"Again, we ask you to practice patience and good judgement," Mass Hockey said. "The children are all watching us and following our example. We all need to make a better effort to respect the officials and keep them working."

boston.cbslocal.com

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