Rink rage is a major issue affecting minor hockey: Poll
Posted March 5, 2015 7:27 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – If you’ve ever been inside a minor hockey rink you’ve probably seen or heard them — over-the-top hockey parents. And a new Angus Reid poll suggests you’re probably not the only one who hears them.
The majority of people surveyed say they’ve seen either a player or referee being verbally abused.
Although it has been more than a decade since Hockey Canada published a 119-page guide to help minor hockey organizations maintain a safe and fun environment for kids, the new survey shows local hockey rinks are often ground zero for abuse.
The poll finds almost nine out of 10 people surveyed saw parents using inappropriate language towards both players and referees, who often aren’t that much older than the players.
Meantime, six-in-10 saw parents actually verbally abusing those referees after the game and half saw the same happen to kids. Many also claim they watched the abusive behaviour happening in the stands during the game.
Those who went to more games typically saw more of both types of abuse and 87 per cent feel the abuse is a serious issue in the game right now.
Less than 20 per cent of people say they think things inside the arena are getting better.
