Twice as many to be frustrated with ;)

AJHL Adopts Two-Referee System

Calgary, AB, February 26, 2009 – The Alberta Junior Hockey League announced today that the two-referee system will be implemented throughout the 2009 Pamco Jiro Service & Syntech AJHL Playoffs. The two referee system will be used in select games during the opening two rounds of the upcoming playoffs and during all games in the League Semi-Final and League Final series.

The four-official system adds a second referee for a total of two referees and two linesmen. This system is used regularly in the NHL, American Hockey League (AHL), Canadian Hockey League (CHL) and other high levels of hockey. The Alberta Junior Hockey League has previously implemented the two referee system in the post-season and on a trial basis in the 2005-2006 regular season.

“If Alberta had a sufficient number of officials, the AJHL would utilize the two referee system in every AJHL game,” said AJHL Vice-President of Officiating George McCorry. As other Leagues across Alberta wrap up the 2008-2009 season, more officials will be available to the AJHL, allowing the League to increase the opportunity to use the two referee system. “As more officials become available, and in situations when the need for a two referee system arises, the four official system will be implemented.”

“The two-referee system will allow more officials to gain valuable playoff experience,” added McCorry. The two referee system will utilize the knowledge of the more experienced referees and enable them to become actively involved in the development of young officials. The four official system also decreases the chance of high impact calls being missed.

The North Division will kick off the 2009 Pamco Jiro Service & Syntech AJHL Playoffs on Friday, February 27th while the South Division will commence on Saturday, February 28th. Listen to each game of the 2009 AJHL Playoffs live at www.AJHL.ca!