Small town life does not stop those who are deserving from reaching new heights. Such is the case for small town boy, Cache Cook. Cook recently received the news that he was awarded sponsorship to B.C. Hockey Officiating School for a week in the month of August in Osoyoos, B.C. for his outstanding service as a young hockey referee.
“Carson Zieske who is Princeton Minor Hockey’s Head Referee recruited some of the younger hockey players,” said Cache’s mom Kelley. “He worked around the kids’ hockey schedules to allow them to play hockey as well as ref in the younger divisions. Carson’s efforts and really positive attitude with Cache and the other new young refs got them off to a great start. Carson looks after all the officiating and does a very good job. The boys love him and respect him which is really an important part of it all.”
With Zieske leading the way and Cook eager to learn, the two soon had built a good working relationship. Larry Jeeves who is the OMAHA (Okanagan Mainline Amateur Hockey Association) president noticed a special spark in Cook. “Larry said Cache really seemed to be listening and eager to learn more,” said Kelley. “He said he was like a sponge absorbing everything he could to help him do his best as a ref. Larry urged Cache to apply for the sponsorship and really made it possible. He is an adamant supporter of youth refereeing.”
“Larry called me after he had evaluated Cache and recommended him for the sponsorship,” said Kelley. “Cache was thrilled when he got the news and he is looking forward to his week in Osoyoos.” The ref sponsorship includes meals and accommodation. “I am really happy for him,” stated Kelley. “It is a great opportunity and I’m sure Cache will make the most of it.”