IHA Official Makes History at Prestigious OHL Cup in Canada
Published Mon 05 May 2025
Ice Hockey Australia (IHA) is proud to celebrate a historic milestone in the development of Australian officiating, as IHA Official, Hamish Young, recently became the first Australian ever to officiate at the renowned OHL Cup – a major international showcase for the best U16 AAA talent across Ontario and the United States.
Held annually in Toronto, the OHL Cup features the top 20 teams in the U16 AAA category and serves as a key stepping stone for young athletes aiming to enter junior leagues and eventually professional hockey. The tournament has helped launch the careers of NHL stars such as Connor McDavid, Steven Stamkos, and Shane Wright, among many others.
Hamish’s inclusion in this elite event marks a significant achievement not just for his own career, but also for the broader advancement of Australian officiating on the world stage. Adding to the prestige, Hamish was selected to officiate one of the tournament's Elimination Finals, further highlighting the respect he has earned within international officiating circles.
Currently based part-time in Canada, Hamish has been officiating in the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL) for the past two seasons. He returns to Australia for the AIHL season, where he continues to contribute to the domestic game.
Beyond the rink, Hamish is a key contributor to the growth of officials in Australia. As a member of the Ice Hockey Victoria Officiating Council, he dedicates time to mentoring and developing new referees, helping build a stronger future for the sport at home.
Hamish has also officiated at major international events including the IIHF World Championships and the Para Ice Hockey World Championships, demonstrating the global recognition of his skills and dedication.
This achievement underscores IHA’s commitment to developing world-class officials and creating pathways for Australians to thrive on the international stage.
From all of us at Ice Hockey Australia — congratulations Hamish on your incredible accomplishment! You continue to inspire the next generation of officials across the country.
