The Cassidy family’s shared passion for hockey officiating culminated in a remarkable event during this year’s Quickard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week. Three generations of Cassidys – Kevin, his son David, and David’s nephews Kaleb and Kohen – took to the ice together as referees, marking a significant milestone in their family history and a dream come true for Kevin. This intergenerational officiating team highlights a unique blend of tradition, mentorship, and shared love for the sport. Their story is a testament to the power of family connections and the enduring appeal of hockey within the Canadian landscape.
Kevin’s journey into officiating began almost four decades ago in Fergus, Ontario, not as a planned career path but rather a response to a community need. His initial foray into refereeing, prompted by a shortage of officials in their local minor hockey league, evolved into a lifelong passion spanning nearly 40 years. Kevin’s dedication extended beyond officiating, with his involvement in executive committees for various minor hockey teams both in Ontario and after relocating to the Edmonton area in 2013. This commitment to the sport laid the groundwork for the subsequent generations of Cassidy referees.
David, following in his father’s footsteps, embraced officiating as a way to remain connected to the game after his playing days ended. He viewed it as a means to maintain physical fitness and continue his active participation in the hockey community. This transition from player to official reflects a common trajectory for many who seek to maintain their involvement in the sport they love. David’s decision not only perpetuated the family tradition but also served as an example for his nephews, Kaleb and Kohen.
Kaleb’s interest in officiating stemmed from a genuine appeal to the role, while Kohen was encouraged to join the “family business” by his grandfather. Both young men quickly discovered a passion for refereeing, exceeding their initial expectations. Kaleb described a long-held desire to become a referee, and Kohen found his first year far more enjoyable than anticipated. Their enthusiastic embrace of officiating demonstrated a natural progression within the family, ensuring the continuation of the Cassidy legacy on the ice.
The realization of Kevin’s dream – to officiate alongside his son and grandsons – was a heartwarming moment, particularly for David, who witnessed his nephews’ growth and development within the officiating ranks. The family’s shared experience on the ice exemplified the strong bonds forged through their mutual passion. For David, watching Kaleb and Kohen progress from players to skilled referees underscored the deep satisfaction of sharing a cherished activity with family.
The younger Cassidys acknowledge the influence of Kevin’s mentorship on their officiating skills, admitting to adopting both his positive attributes and some less desirable habits. While they learned valuable techniques from their grandfather, they also picked up certain idiosyncrasies that drew the attention of supervisors, highlighting the amusing side of learning a craft within a family setting. These lighthearted anecdotes reveal the close-knit nature of the Cassidy family and the inevitable transfer of both skills and quirks across generations. Despite the occasional critique, the shared experience on the ice, punctuated by humorous observations, strengthened their bond and created lasting memories. For Kohen, these shared moments embody the true meaning of family, underscoring the importance of connection and shared passions. The Cassidys’ story transcends a simple recounting of a hockey game; it is a narrative of family legacy, mentorship, and the enduring power of shared experiences.
