Advice From Our 2022 Esso and Telus Cup Officials
The accomplishments of these 3 officials represent years of hard work and dedication. We want to take the time and hear from them how they felt about their selection, what motivates them and any advice they have to share with young officials looking to follow their path.
Yesterday the Telus and Esso Cups came to a close after a busy week of national level U18 hockey action. As we shared just before the start of the tournaments we’re very proud that 3 officials who progressed through our NBHOA ranks were selected to work games.
The accomplishments of these 3 officials represent years of hard work and dedication. We want to take the time and hear from them how they felt about their selection, what motivates them and any advice they have to share with young officials looking to follow their path.
Julianne Desjardins (Grand Falls)
Referee Esso Cup
How Did You Start Officiating?
I grew up playing hockey and once I was of age to officiate my dad offered to put me in the new class and I accepted. By doing that, it allowed me to see both sides of the game and that makes me a better official today.
What Keeps You Coming Back Season After Season?
Simple, the love of the game. Hockey is a great sport and I enjoy spending time in a rink whether I’m there to work a game or to simply watch my fellow officials.
How Do You Feel About Your Esso Cup Selection?
I am proud and humbled by my selection for the Esso Cup. Just a couple of months ago, I didn’t even think about that possibility. The people I work with, on and off the ice, made this possible.
What Do You Find Most Enjoyable About This Level of Hockey?
At this level, you get to work great games with a great crew. You really do form a team with the other officials and that’s always a good time. Plus, as an official, we get the best seats in the house.
Any Advice You Would Share With Young Officials?
Just keep working for what you want. Hard work and dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. Anytime you skate out on that fresh sheet of ice, keep in mind that someone might be watching.
Matt Hanson (Fredericton)
Linesperson Telus Cup
How Did You Start Officiating?
I always enjoyed hockey. And then got an opportunity to start officiating some games and I jumped at the chance to be involved in the game from a different angle. Once I started, I really enjoyed it and I’ve been at it ever since.
What Keeps You Coming Back Season After Season?
I would say there are a few things that keep me coming back. I really enjoy officiating and being involved in hockey. I also like the challenge of trying to improve myself each year. In addition to that, it’s a good opportunity to be around friends and doing something we all enjoy.
How Do You Feel About Your Telus Cup Selection?
I feel incredibly honored to be selected for this great opportunity. I have been fortunate to have an amazing group of assignors and supervisors that have helped me along the way, as well as more experienced officials that have mentored me.
Our referees in chiefs Tim Skinner, John O’Toole, and Matt Forster have provided support and great coaching along the way.
We have many people who give their time to help the young officials in the province and I have benefited from that. We are also very fortunate here to have great hockey that provides lots of opportunities to officiate great games.
What Do You Find Most Enjoyable About This Level of Hockey?
Officiating U18 AAA hockey is fun. The talent at this level is amazing. The players are extremely skilled and make very quick decisions. Coaches are also knowledgeable. There is an intensity in the games that really makes it fun.
Any Advice You Would Share With Young Officials?
As for advice to the young officials, I would say to be patient and stay at it. Like anything, there is a learning curve, and the early years can be tough, but it gets easier as you get more experience with each game.
Also, I’d say to take advantage of the coaching and advice that is available from supervisors and other officials. That can help a lot, both with the moral support they can offer and the experience they can pass on. They’ve been where you are, so they know what you’re dealing with.
Madison Pendleton (Moncton)
Linesperson Esso Cup
How Did You Start Officiating?
I began officiating when I was 12 years old. My brother and I were always very competitive, so when he started officiating, I knew I also had to try and followed in his footsteps the following season.
What Keeps You Coming Back Season After Season?
The game of hockey has always been a large part of my life as I have always played competitive hockey, so I am glad that I am still able to stay involved in the game. Also, the lifelong friendships I have gained with fellow officials.
How Do You Feel About Your Esso Cup Selection?
I grew up training for Esso Cup as a player, so it’s very exciting to finally attend the tournament, but as an official.
You’ve Previously Worked On The Secret Dream Gap Tour Games Which Involved Professional Players And National Level Players, What Do You Find Most Enjoyable About This Level of Hockey?
During the past year, I have received the opportunity to officiate the red and white National Women’s Team tryouts before the Women’s World Championships and the PWHPA Secret Dream Gap Tour. These events were a dream come true as I have grown up admiring these players. I knew this level of hockey was never attainable for myself as a player, so it was an incredible experience working these games, especially before an Olympic year.
Any Advice You Would Share With Young Officials?
Always focus on your love for the game and have fun!
We want to send another massive congratulation to all 3 of our NBHOA officials for their achievements. If you are a young official who is inspired by your fellow NBHOA colleagues, we encourage you to follow their advice. Make use of the mentorship available to you, keep working hard every time you hit the ice and remember you’re out there because you love this game!
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