It is a milestone in the world of hockey officiating.
For Chiara Knowlton, officiating hockey was just part of growing up. “It’s a family affair,” she says. Chiara started officiating at age 11, while her mom, Shelley, has officiated for over 27 years, with Chiara following suit. “We all tried it at least once, and I just really loved it.” Chiara recalls. Years later, the pair became the first mother-daughter duo to officiate a U SPORTS Canada West game on October 25, 2024.
Shelley’s journey began in St. Albert, where she played hockey as one of the few girls in the league. After years of complaining about bad calls, a referee challenged her to take a clinic. “I did, and I never looked back,” Shelley says. She soon got her kids involved, bringing them to referee ice sessions when they were young. “They were immersed early on.” Shelley says.
For Chiara, the realization of the milestone hit her during the anthem. “That’s when it really sank in — we’re doing this now.” Shelley had a similar moment pre-game while at Clare Drake Arena that night. As they stepped onto the ice, she let Chiara go first for their lap and thought, “She’s arrived.” The two of them joke that Chiara is Shelley’s “succession plan”, and while Shelley couldn’t be prouder, she declares, “She’s faster than me now. I won’t admit it, but I’m a little worried. She’s coming for my job!”
All three of Shelley’s children started refereeing around the age of 11, but Chiara is making the game even more enjoyable for both mother and daughter. “When I work with her, it’s really fun because I don’t have to worry about watching her. I trust that she’s going to do the right thing,” Shelley says. However, for Chiara, it can be more challenging, as Shelley holds her children to a higher standard. “I hold my kids to a little bit higher standard than I would hold other officials, but I think that’s just me trying to make sure that they’re doing a really, really good job,” Shelley explains.
As the presence of female officials continues to grow in hockey, the Knowltons’ story is bound to inspire the next generation. Chiara’s advice for young officials is simple: “Don’t get discouraged.” Even when faced with challenging situations, “you can overcome every obstacle. You just have to persevere and learn new tricks to stay focused in the big moments.”
Shelley agrees, noting, “Female hockey is the fastest-growing demographic, and there are so many opportunities for young female officials.” She encourages those thinking about officiating to take the leap. “It’s never too late. There’s always a place in hockey to officiate.”
For anyone interested in starting their officiating journey, Hockey Alberta offers programs to help get anyone involved and develop in the role. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to advance, there are pathways to grow and thrive in the officiating world.
Monday, November 4 marks Hockey Alberta’s recognition of Rule 11.4 in the Hockey Canada rulebook for on-ice discrimination AND Maltreatment Awareness Day. The following was written by Anton Joseph, EdD (Candidate), MBA, BSc. Anton is the chair of Hockey Alberta’s EDI Committee.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Darren Gnam (Fairview) of the Fairview U15 Falcons has been named Hockey Alberta’s Coach of the Year. Gnam had a significant positive impact on his players, taking the time to teach them the skills necessary to become comfortable, capable and confident with their transition into body contact. Gnam structures practices to ensure everyone has fun while learning the skills of the game, which created an environment that kept athletes involved in the sport.
Official of the Year
Provincial Championship Exceptional Host Site Award
Order of Merit - Administration
Order of Merit - Administration
Order of Merit - Development
