Hockey isn’t always about the goals that teams score. Sometimes the sport can get really physical. Aggressive plays are what make the fans want to watch more games, though the sport is more forgiving in the junior leagues. Indeed, when it comes to the kids, especially the youth rec leagues where there’s minimal competition, the games are not as physical as one might associate with the sport.

However, a recent incident at Kraken Community Iceplex in Seattle shocked the hockey community. What happened? During a rec-league match, a parent went down onto the rink and pushed the two teen referees on the ice, purely out of frustration. Considering the alarming nature of the situation, the COO of the Seattle Kraken and the Kraken Community Iceplex, Rob Lampman, soon released his statement.

In an X post by the KCI, Lampman shared his thoughts, stating, “First and foremost, we want to extend our heartfelt concern for the officials, players, coaches, and families involved in the recent incident at KCI. We are in touch with them to offer any support they need, and we are grateful to hear the young officials appear to be in good spirits and looking forward to their next game.”

Indeed, the incident was just horrifying for many out there to watch. A clip that went viral on social media captured the entire scene. The parent in question is Uriel Cortes, a 42-year-old, who now has been charged with two counts of fourth-degree assault. The way the two teenagers fell on the ice wasn’t good, as one suffered a hip and neck injury, while the other suffered an elbow injury.

Furthermore, Lampman emphasized that the KCI does not stand for such behavior. No, it is a place that stands to instill good values through hockey. “The Seattle Kraken and Kraken Community Iceplex strive to foster an environment of just that community where everyone can share their love of hockey. The Kraken code posted on the walls at KCI reminds us of that, and our values, everyday. There is absolutely no place in hockey, or any sport, for the behavior that occurred on Sunday.”

To prevent future incidents of this sort, the junior hockey community has also taken action, and Lampman made sure to extend his gratitude to them too. “Our Jr Kraken community has taken it upon themselves to begin a ‘Cool Down Challenge’ on social media to remind everyone to respect referees. We are proud to support them and encourage others to participate. Together, we can create a safer, more positive environment for everyone involved.”

Indeed, this is a problem that could happen anywhere, and it is important to support preventative initiatives all across the country. Lampman emphasized the need for the community to come together and ensure that this remains a one-off incident, as it is paramount to ensure the safety of children in the sport.

What has happened after the Seattle Kraken incident?

Though Uriel Cortes was swiftly apprehended, has he given his own verdict on this incident? According to a Seattle police report, the perpetrator maintained that he went to the ice to defend his son.

However, the video that was acquired by the officers clearly proved that there was no such incident on the ice, the way Cortes explained it. Due to a lack of evidence, it became clear that Cortes actions were entirely unprovoked.

The incident occurred just weeks after Washington State Rep. Suzanne Schmidt introduced new legislation specifically to protect referees. Commenting on this incident, Schmidt said, “My reaction was, ‘That’s exactly why I’m running this bill.’”

She also said that the repercussions a perpetrator could face due to the bill will act as a preventative measure.“I think that’s appropriate to do that because I believe that people learn, you know, from their mistakes, and they learn when they’ve been held accountable. It lets them know that this is a gross misdemeanor that can be punishable by $500 or six months in jail.”

Schmidt pointed out how many young referees are pulling out of their duties, owing to the increase in such incidents. However, to stop the assault on these youngsters, she has introduced strict legislation where even verbal attacks now will incur a ban for the offenders from attending any game for a year. It may seem tough, but as the KCI incident has shown, it is certainly necessary.