High school hockey games cannot be played because of a dispute that is continuing between Section 2 and referees.
The ongoing dispute between Section 2 athletics and the Eastern New York Ice Hockey Officials Association is affecting high school hockey.
After a four-hour meeting, no agreement was reached, leaving student athletes in limbo. Hockey games across Section 2 have already been canceled this season.
This issue impacts public high school hockey players in the capital region, with future games uncertain. The conflict began last month over a four-year agreement made in spring.
Section 2 officials claim the agreement was reached collectively, but ice hockey officials requested to reopen negotiations for an extra $16 per official per game. Section 2 was informed on Nov. 13 that over 75% of officials planned to stop officiating this season.
Robert Zayas, executive director of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association, said, “Unfortunately there have been games canceled, and if there’s one game canceled, that’s too many. Our student athletes deserve better.”
“Our concern is getting these student athletes back on the ice, giving them the opportunity to participate in the season they deserve, and using the officials that are really signed up and ready to go,” said Zayas.
“We apologize to those student athletes impacted by this situation, it’s unfortunate situation, and it’s one that could be resolved,” Zayas added.
Zayas mentioned that Section 3 officials will officiate Section 2 games tomorrow. He expressed hope for a quick resolution to this challenging situation.
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