During the 2017-18 season, the MIHOA Board of Directors, with full support from Missouri Hockey, is taking a strict stance on unsportsmanlike behavior and is reemphasizing USA Hockey's Zero Tolerance Policy for all games officiated by its members. According to MIHOA President Bob Howenstein:

"Hockey is a passionate and emotional sport for players, coaches and spectators. However, when actions become argumentative, abusive and disruptive, this has a negative impact on the entire atmosphere in the rink. During our officiating seminars, our members have been instructed to take a strict stance on unsportsmanlike conduct and to apply the zero tolerance policy right away. Penalties to players and coaches will be assessed immediately, according to the rules. The minor or bench minor penalty will serve as the warning, and an additional misconduct and/or game misconduct will be issued should behavior continue. Parents and spectators displaying inappropriate and disruptive behavior will be removed from the playing area and may be subject to further disciplinary action by Missouri Hockey. Together, we can create a cooperative and positive environment for everyone involved."

To view the USA Hockey Zero Tolerance policy, click here. 

MIHOA Members should plan on attending our monthly membership meetings. Membership meetings include important association announcements, updates and special programs (presentations, speakers, special guests, etc.). All meetings take place at Creve Coeur Ice Arena. 

• 9/27/2017 @ 7:00 PM
• 10/24/2017 @ 7:00 PM
• 11/28/2017 @ 7:00 PM
• 1/3/2018 @ 7:00 PM
• 2/7/2018 @ 7:00 PM
• 4/29/2018 @ 7:00 PM**

**Annual meeting and elections.

The Hockey Ref Shop is offering special discounts for MIHOA members. To view the special, download this flyer.  Hockey Ref Shop carries officiating sweaters, pants, protective equipment, accessories and more. 

HockeyRefShop.com was founded to give referees a better experience with their equipment. We pride ourselves on having the best prices on the internet and taking great care of our customers. All orders are shipped fast and with care.

The MIHOA Development & Education Program recently created its Advanced Development Program. The program is used to identify MIHOA officials who are ready to be challenged and to promote our members to higher-level officiating opportunities. Four MIHOA members are in Des Moines, Iowa this weekend officiating the Tier 1 Elite Hockey League U16 & U18 AAA Showcase involving some of the top-ranked teams in the country. It is very fulfilling to see MIHOA's efforts paying off at the local, regional and national level and we are excited to watch these young men continue to grow in their careers as hockey officials.