A Richmond Minor Hockey Association alumni took time out from his busy schedule last week to give back to aspiring officials in his hometown.
NHL referee Trevor Hanson co-hosted a skill development session for young referees at the Richmond Ice Centre. The event was part of the association’s 50th anniversary celebration and its ongoing commitment for referee development. Richmond Minor extended the invitation to include officials from Richmond Ravens and Seafair Minor as well.
Hanson was in town to officiate the Canucks/Maple Leafs game the following night at Rogers Arena. He made his NHL debut in the fall of 2013 in Dallas.
He came through Richmond Minor Hockey as a player and worked his first game as an official in 1997. His playing career included a stint with the B.C. Hockey League’s Surrey Eagles. Hanson eventually turned his attention full-time to officiating and received his Hockey Canada Level Six certification in 2009, allowing him to work a number of high-profile international events.
Helping him host the 75-minute session was Dan Clarke, another RMHA alumni who often worked games with Hanson.
Following the clinic, the participants received prizes from Hanson and were treated to Pizza, donated by Fresh Slice Seafair.
Hanson’s NHL referee jersey will soon be on display in the Richmond Ice Centre lobby, alongside another Richmond native and accomplished NHL referee Kelly Sutherland.
