Saskatchewan hockey ref blows the whistle on verbal abuse of young officials [Video]

A Saskatchewan hockey referee is gaining widespread attention after posting a video on social media telling coaches and parents to “do better.”

Dave Kadun recently took to Instagram, calling on the hockey community to think twice before yelling — or swearing — at a young official.

“Think about what you’re doing when you’re yelling at a 12 or 13-year-old kid,” Kadun said in his video, which has garnered 1.5 million views.

“You’re killing them inside.”

The Lloydminster-based referee said there’s been multiple incidents this season where referees have left the ice crying and feeling defeated because of the verbal abuse.

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Kadun noted it can be difficult for a young referee to kick out an adult because of the authoritative position.

He said it’s important to remember the young officials are still learning.

“When they get yelled at, they start second guessing …