ZEBRAS CARE VISIT - Tim Horton Children's Foundation - Toronto - January 29th 2015.

On January 29th, prior to the Toronto Maple Leafs vs the Arizona Coyotes game, the officials working had the opportunity and honor to visit with some great kids, courtesy of the efforts of the Tim Horton Children's Foundation and the NHLOA's Zebras Care Charity.

Referees Francois Charron and Chris Rooney, along with linesmen Mike Cvik and Ryan Galloway met with students Adam, Daniel, Dylan and Tom from the Lakeshore Collegiate Institute of Toronto, as well as Andrew Sawicki and Richard from the Tim Horton Children's Foundation.

The young men were escorted down to the official's dressing room where they had the opportunity to mingle with the officials and ask various questions. It was a great chance for them to find out more about the game from the referees perspective, as well as what it takes to become an official in the NHL.

After a visit in the dressing room, the group had the chance to walk down to the ice to take in the ACC from ice level. It was noted that the arena looks a lot different from that perspective then from the seats. A group picture was taken, followed by another opportunity to talk and share comments and questions amongst the group.

As the group parted, the officials off to get ready for their night of work, and the young men off to get to their seats to take in the warm-up, it was obvious to see why these boys had been selected to attend the game. The polite, well-spoken young men are indicative of what the Tim Horton Children's Foundation is working to develop. These are the leaders of tomorrow in their communities and it was obvious they are well on their way to success wherever their lives take them.

Special thanks to the Tim Horton Children's Foundation for being a great partner with the NHLOA in making these rewarding visits happen.