Everyone involved in our game at every level must do everything possible to remove this ugly behaviour from our great game. Too many of our officials are turning away from the game due to this abuse that they have been subjected to time and time again. Officials too must be part of the solution. Officials must be encouraged to assess the appropriate penalties to coaches and players who display disrespect for their decisions or who abuse them in any fashion. In fact, officials are encouraged to communicate more with coaches when it is deemed appropriate and will be of benefit to all concerned.
Emotion is an inherent trait in our game.
But it must be vented in the appropriate manner. It cannot be directed at the on-ice officials, nor should it be directed at the players in any form of harassment or abuse. With all of us working together, we can eliminate the ideology that it is okay to direct abuse at our on-ice officials. Quite simply put, it was designed to allow the skilled players the opportunity to display their talents without being impeded by the less skilled player. Use of the stick to restrain or impede the progress of an opposing player not in possession of the puck.