Campbell River’s chief referee of hockey thought she was just going to another annual general meeting to hear what’s new.
Instead, Jacqui Harrison got a big surprise when BC Hockey honoured her work in helping develop young referees at the 95th annual awards banquet.
“It was a surprise…I was very humbled and excited,” said Harrison.
The 33-year-old will also celebrate her 20th season of officiating this fall when she returns as the referee in chief – her fourth year – for the Campbell River Minor Hockey Association.
According to BC Hockey, Harrison is respected for her “fair and honest approach” as well as her dedication and work ethic in mentoring young officials. In presenting the Development Award, BC Hockey wrote:
“What sets (Harrison) apart from many other volunteers is her selfless dedication to the officiating side of the sport of hockey. She works extremely hard to ensure all referees are mentored throughout the season and she is always there to answer questions or solve problems.”
Harrison has referred at numerous levels and at tournaments, and was an official at the 2013 Women’s Esso Cup.
The BC Hockey AGM was held in Penticton June 21 and Harrison goes each year to attend the referees’ seminar to learn what’s new and to bring that knowledge back to her fellow officials.
This year BC Hockey made sure she was coming because they had something special planned. Harrison didn’t know about the award until, “The cat was let out of the bag at the ref’s seminar!” she said with a laugh.
In her speech at the banquet, Harrison thanked the Campbell River hockey association, the many refs who mentored her and the officials now under her charge.
In addition to her duties as chief ref, Harrison is the mom to two kids, Dylan and Shelby, who both play hockey.