More Than Just a Game: Inspiring the Next Generation of Female Officials

By Marissa Lyons

The morning after the hardest game I had ever officiated, I was assigned to officiate a 10U girls’ game—a huge shift from the intense 18U boys’ matchup I had worked the night before. That previous game had tested every ounce of patience and professionalism I had. By the time I left the rink that night, I felt defeated. I started to wonder if all the hours spent studying rules, running skating drills, and earning certifications were truly worth it. I questioned whether the space I was trying to take up in hockey even mattered.

When I walked into the rink the next morning, I braced myself for more of the same. Instead, I was greeted by bright, beaming faces—young girls lacing up their skates, laughing, and buzzing with excitement before their game. The moment I stepped onto the ice, their eyes lit up. Some whispered to each other, while others couldn’t contain their excitement and shouted, “We have a girl ref!”

In that moment, none of the negativity from the night before mattered anymore. That all faded into the background. What stood out were those young girls who were seeing something they hadn’t seen before: a woman in stripes, skating confidently, blowing the whistle, and commanding the ice.

I realized that for them, my presence wasn’t just about enforcing rules—it was about possibility. I represented a version of hockey that welcomed them, one where they could see themselves not only as players, but as leaders, decision-makers, and officials too.

That morning reaffirmed why I continue to officiate despite the challenges. Representation isn’t about being perfect or proving doubters wrong—it’s about showing up, so the next generation doesn’t have to question whether they belong. Every time I step on the ice now, I’m not just officiating a hockey game; I’m helping reshape what hockey looks like—and who it’s for.

If you’re a female hockey player at least 12 years old and have ever thought about becoming an official, now is the time! You can help shape the future of the girls’ game and inspire the next generation just starting their hockey journey.

Visit IHOA.com for more information on how to register with USA Hockey and IHOA.