HEO on February 22, 2021 passed a motion for the Green Armband Initiative
What is the green armband initiative?
The green armband initiative was introduced in Montreal in January 2020. All officials below the age of 18 years old are required to wear a green armband as a means to identify them as a minor. The wearing of the armband is to highlight the age of the official regardless of the level of hockey that they are working. As part of this initiative, there will also be increased sanctions against team officials and spectators that are penalized for abuse or harassment of minor (below the age of 18) officials. Education will also be provided to players, parents, officials, and team officials about abuse and harassment of officials.
When does the green armband initiative officially take effect?
The initiative will officially begin at the start of the 2021-2022 hockey season with all impacted officials required to wear the green armband no later than October 15, 2021 or whenever they receive their green armband, whichever comes first.