In the fast-paced world of hockey, players rely on sharp vision to anticipate moves, spot teammates, and track the puck. But what happens when the game is seen through a different lens? For some Canadian players, colour deficiency, commonly known as colour blindness, adds a unique challenge to the ice.
Colour deficiency affects approximately 1 in 12 Canadian males (1 in 200 Canadian females), with red-green colour blindness being the most prevalent form. This condition alters the way individuals perceive certain colours, making it difficult to distinguish between reds, greens, and browns. In some extreme cases, players may only see black, white and grey scales making it even more difficult.
Varieties of Colour Blindness & Perceptions Across Different Types:
On the ice, where jerseys, pucks, and markings blend together, players with colour deficiency face distinct hurdles. Identifying teammates by jersey colour alone becomes a daunting task, leading to potential miscommunications and missed opportunities. Moreover, accurately reading the lines and markings on the rink can prove challenging, impacting positioning and strategy. This is not only challenging for players but also impacts coaches and more importantly referees.
Despite these obstacles, many colour-deficient players have found ways to adapt and excel in the sport they love. Some rely on memorization and positional awareness to compensate for their colour vision limitations, while others utilize special lenses or equipment designed to enhance colour perception.
But beyond the individual challenges, addressing colour deficiency in hockey requires a collective effort. Awareness and education within teams and leagues can foster understanding and support for players with colour vision impairments. Simple measures like choosing jersey colours with high contrast and using clear, consistent rink markings can make a significant difference in inclusivity on the ice.
GMHA is committed to inclusivity in sport and has made a significant change and investment in the following areas:
1. New Tryout Jerseys:
As new players come together in a fiercely competitive and swiftly moving environment, jersey recognition becomes paramount. Our new tryout jerseys are crafted with contrasting colors to aid color deficiency players and coaches, featuring prominent numbers on both the front and back, facilitating quick differentiation. This aspect proved especially crucial for players during battle drills, scrimmages, and inter-squad games.
2. New House League Jerseys:
In 2023, we unveiled revamped House League uniforms, elevating their design, style, and overall appearance. We replaced knit socks with modern hockey socks for enhanced durability, a change that garnered widespread celebration. However, introducing new jerseys for our colour-impaired players, coaches, and referees posed a fresh challenge. With up to 10 teams competing in each age group, we couldn't rely solely on white and dark options, necessitating careful consideration of colour combinations.
Throughout the 2023-2024 season, we dedicated efforts to refining our House League Jerseys, striving for inclusive color combinations accessible to all participants. We sought expertise from external specialists in colour deficiency, as well as input from GMHA players and referees. Ensuring clarity and ease for everyone involved, we meticulously examined colour combinations and jersey designs. After thorough consultation with GMHA members and players, we're excited to announce new color combinations (and sizes) for the upcoming 2024-2025 House League Season!
For Canadian hockey to truly thrive, it must embrace the diversity of its players, including those with colour deficiency. By recognizing and accommodating the unique needs of all athletes, we can ensure that the game remains accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of how they see the world. After all, in hockey, it's not just about seeing the puck, it's about seeing the potential in every player, no matter their perspective.
GMHA would like to thank our families who took part in this positive change that will help make the game better for all kids.
To learn more about the types of colour deficiencies, please visit:
Enchroma
Opto