Hello CT Hockey Members and Families,

As the season is now at full speed, I want to relate a situation that recently took place at one of our games and remind everyone of USA Hockey's Zero Tolerance policy. The attached story of this situation was a referee's firsthand account. While we all would probably agree that no one sees a situation exactly the same way, especially when a penalty is called against our team, hopefully we can agree that we need to set a good example for the players, all children, no matter our roles as referees, coaches, administrators or parents.

This week, all CHC Member Presidents and Reps received a special notice to remind coaches that any verbal (including profanity) or physical abuse will result in an immediate suspension and hearing before CHC. Let's do all that we can to keep the game fun and a positive learning experience for our players and children. Let's all "Relax, It is Just A Game". Please help me in this pursuit.

See you at the rink!

Mike Meakem, President CT Hockey Conference

(Game situation, modified so as not to identify specific people, as provided to CHC for disciplinary review.)

"I was on the other side of the ice opposite the bench area after I assessed the penalty. My partner was quietly trying to calm the coach down concerning his objection to a two minute minor penalty and a ten minute misconduct for a check from behind that for me was clearly the correct call. Initially the coach was somewhat calmed down, but then he erupted... continued