We make every effort possible to ensure players, coaches and parents enjoy their International Silver Stick experience.

However, it is very hard to please everyone, all at the same time, and referee controversy seems to be one of the most common issues raised, usually when a team is eliminated from the tournament.

Please understand that referees do the best job they can, and yes, sometimes calls do get missed. The view from ice level is not the same as it is from the spectator stands. Spectators usually have a superior view of the game from their position.

Referees are assigned by the Ontario Minor Hockey Association, they are in no way affiliated with the Silver Stick Tournament. They come from many different centres as far away as Peterborough or beyond, and have no vested interest in any team, who wins, or who loses. Their job is to officiate in a professional and competent manner, oblivious to team standings. The tournament does not advise them in any way how to referee, what to call, or what not to call. They abide by, and enforce all OMHA and CHA playing rules. You might like to know that an OMHA referee supervisor is usually in attendance while the tournament is underway to reinforce the fairness and quality of officiating.

If you feel you have a legitimate complaint about the quality or competence of refereeing at the tournament, there are some options available to you to make your observations known. In all instances, the people concerned need to know what the problem was, what game(s) the problem occurred in, and how it affected the outcome. A general "the referees were terrible" complaint will not achieve any action. Specifics are needed, generalities are impossible to act upon.

You can contact the Silver Stick Tournament directly by clicking here: 

 Your report will be passed on to the local OMHA Referee-in-chief. Or contact the OMHA directly with your concerns:

  (Press on the OMHA icon)

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