Our Intramural leagues would not operate without our officials. They are the ones entrusted with the duties of keeping the game fun, safe and fair for all. Each year, our team awards Golden Whistles, an award reserved for the exceptional officials who go above and beyond for our leagues. These are the stories of our unsung heroes.
Handley Cup Soccer League – Prashant Chopa (did not attend ceremony)
Over the past two years, Prashant has become a cornerstone of the Handley Cup soccer program. He’s the kind of official you hope for—someone his Referees-in-Chief can rely on without a second thought, especially in those last-minute situations when coverage is tight. Time and time again, he stepped up without hesitation, supporting both the program and his fellow officials.
What sets him apart is not just his reliability, but his skill. Prashant consistently officiates at our highest levels, managing fast-paced and competitive games with confidence and control. He brings a strong understanding of the game and applies it with fairness and professionalism, earning respect from players and peers alike.
More than anything, his commitment has left a lasting mark on the program. We’re incredibly grateful for everything he’s contributed.
The Dodgeball League – Debbie Suleman
This year, Debbie has truly been an incredible official. Even while balancing a demanding varsity schedule, she remained one of the most reliable referees in the league—showing up week after week, consistently, and without complaint. That level of commitment is impressive on its own, but what really sets Debbie apart is how she shows up every single time.
Her consistency, dedication, and fairness never waver. No matter the game, the teams, or the circumstances, she brings a calm, professional presence and ensures that each match is played with integrity and respect. Players and staff alike know they can count on her to handle any situation with confidence and composure.
But beyond her reliability and skill, it’s her enthusiasm that really stands out. Debbie brings a positive energy to every game she officiates, and that attitude has a ripple effect on everyone around her. It makes the environment more enjoyable, more engaging, and ultimately better for everyone involved.
The Dodgeball crew were incredibly lucky to have Debbie as part of the Dodgeball League this year, and her contributions have made a lasting impact on the program.
Point Grey Flag Football League – Caden Wagler
Throughout the season, Caden has been a key part of the success of the league—not just through his officiating, but through the leadership he brings to the role. In particular, he stepped up in a big way by helping guide and train new referees, especially during Term 1 before we gained a Head Official. That kind of initiative and willingness to support others makes a huge difference, and it doesn’t go unnoticed.
He’s also been someone the Flag crew could count on behind the scenes. Whether it was filling shifts or stepping in where needed, he consistently made himself available to support the league.
On the field, his experience is clear in the way he manages games. He makes thoughtful, careful calls, stays fully engaged, and maintains focus from start to finish. Players can trust that their games are being officiated with fairness and attention, which is exactly what we strive for in our leagues.
Overall, Caden’s combination of leadership, reliability, and strong officiating presence has made a meaningful impact on the Point Grey Flag Football League this season.
Todd Ice Hockey League – Jassy Qiu
If there’s one word to describe Jassy this season, it’s dependable. Whenever a last-minute shift needed to be filled, he was often the first to step forward. That kind of reliability is something every league depends on, and he delivered it consistently.
He also brought a strong sense of professionalism to every game—always on time, always prepared, and always focused.
I think the thing that impressed the Ice Hockey crew the most, however, was his presence off the whistle. While many officials will simply make their calls, and move on, he took the time to connect with players to bring them a sense of trust, brought a positive attitude to the rink, and helped create an environment that was both respectful and enjoyable.
He’s been a huge asset to the hockey program this year.
Nitobe Basketball League – Kevin Chen
Some officials make an impact through big moments—others do it through steady, consistent effort all season long. Kevin is firmly in that second category.
Across both terms, he was someone the basketball crew could always rely on. Whether he was scheduled or not, he found ways to contribute—picking up extra shifts, stepping in when needed, and helping ensure that games ran smoothly.
He also played a key role in building community among the officiating team. He brought a positive presence, supported his peers, and helped create a more connected environment.
And of course, his refcos made sure we did not forget to mention his beloved chair—which was a lounge chair which he started bringing so that he could sit with the supervisors between games, and it was then stored in Rec North so that all of the officials could use it when he was not on shift. In its own way, it became a bit of a symbol of his presence and personality within the league.
We feel very lucky to have had Kevin as part of our referee team this year, and his contributions have made a lasting impact on the Nitobe Basketball League.
SRC Futsal League – Holly Whelan
Joining us this year from the Women’s Varsity Soccer team, Holly quickly established herself as a reliable and confident official in both soccer and futsal. It didn’t take long for her to make a strong impression, and she has been a consistent presence throughout the season.
Her Futsal Ref Coordinator specifically wanted to recognize her for the qualities that make her such an effective official. She brings a calm and composed presence to every game, even in high-pressure situations. That ability to stay level-headed allows her to make fair, confident decisions—and just as importantly, to stand by them.
In addition to her strong decision-making, Holly has been incredibly reliable. She consistently shows up on time, prepared, and ready to contribute, which is something we deeply value in our officials.
Overall, her composure, fairness, and dependability have made her an important part of the SRC Futsal League this season.
Cross Volleyball League – Filip Sypien
Filip was simply someone you could always count on. Whether it was helping with setup or picking up extra shifts, he was always willing to step in and lend a hand wherever needed.
But his impact went beyond just being helpful. He brought a positive, easygoing presence to every shift—he’s someone people genuinely enjoyed being around. He became a fun person for the Volleyball crew to hang out with during long supervising shifts, and he helped create a welcoming and supportive environment for fellow officials.
He’s not only a strong referee, but also a kind and thoughtful teammate, and that combination has made a real difference this season.
Filip is truly deserving of this recognition.
Congratulations to all our well-deserved winners!
