
USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
Here. There. Everywhere.
Everywhere today is faraway Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where an ice hockey ref recently lamented the worsening state of the sport — all sports — in a self-produced video.
The Western Canadian ref, appearing to be middle-aged, is Dave Kadun, and his soul-baring video has been widely viewed — an estimated 1.5 million folks — but by a majority most likely least in need of his advice and mentoring:
“This needs to be said. Young officials are skating off the ice in tears. They’re being yelled at, disrespected and broken down — by you. These kids are giving their time and effort to officiate the game we all love, but the way they’re treated is driving them away.