Thank the Stripes Weekend – December 12–14, 2025
Hockey Manitoba is proud to continue the #ThankTheStripes initiative this season, aimed at recognizing, acknowledging, and showing support for our 1,800+ on-ice and off-ice officials across the province. Officials are the backbone of our game—without them, we simply do not have hockey. From grassroots to high-performance levels, they work tirelessly to ensure the game is safe, fair, and played within the rules.
Why it matters:
Officials often work behind the scenes, and their dedication can go unnoticed. This weekend gives us all the opportunity to publicly show our gratitude for their commitment and contributions. Every gesture of appreciation helps foster a positive hockey environment, encourages retention, and motivates officials to continue developing their skills.
What Hockey Manitoba is doing:
- Launching a social media campaign on X, Facebook, and Instagram encouraging players, parents, coaches, associations, and leagues to post messages, photos, and videos using #ThankTheStripes.
- Highlighting officials selected for national and international championships.
- Showcasing officiating resources and training opportunities available to referees across Manitoba.
- Sharing stories and experiences from local officials to inspire the hockey community.
How you can get involved:
Leagues, associations, and community clubs can participate in a variety of ways:
- Provide free drinks, snacks, or meals in the referee room during games.
- Offer free skate sharpening for officials during the weekend.
- Provide coffee, hot chocolate, or other treats at arena canteens.
- Make announcements or PSAs before/during games highlighting #ThankTheStripes.
- Introduce officials by name before games and invite fans to give them an applause.
- Recognize local officials with special presentations or awards before games.
- Share photos, videos, and appreciation messages on social media using #ThankTheStripes.
- Encourage players and coaches to write thank-you notes or create posters to display in arenas.
- Host “Meet the Officials” sessions or mini Q&A events for players and parents to better understand the role of officials.
Let’s make this weekend memorable!
Together, we can ensure that officials feel valued, supported, and celebrated for everything they do. Whether it’s a simple thank-you, a photo, or a public recognition, every effort counts.
Let’s show Manitoba hockey officials that we see them, we appreciate them, and we thank them for keeping our game safe and fair!
#ThankTheStripes
