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It has been an honor and a privilege |
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Nickname:
JMM1021
Posts: 138
Member Since: 4/25/04
Posted: 3/12/2008 11:42am
Views: 564
Replies: -5
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It has been an honor and a privilege
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Over the past many years, I have had the pleasure of officiating games for USA Hockey, USA Hockey Inline, AAU and the Professional Inline Hockey Association. After 1,375 games, it appears that my officiating career is at best curtailed for a few years and likely set for retirement. As many of you know by now, I have been diagnosed with Stage IV Rectal Cancer that has metastasized to the liver. The prognosis is one of hope and prayer with aggressive chemotherapy, radiation treatments and surgeries.
It has been an honor and a privilege for me to work so many games in so many venues with so many great partners. I especially enjoyed donating my services for charity foundations including the USA Hockey Disabled Hockey Festival and the FDNY Camarata Youth Hockey Tournament. My experience in the professional ranks for PIHA represents a time for which I am grateful. My experience at the Pennsylvania Keystone Games will always be a treasure from my career.
I urge all of my past partners to maintain your good health and have that colonoscopy that your doctor suggests; it doesn't hurt and the peace of mind from a clean bill of health definitely beats the alternative. My health as a referee gave me a tremendous advantage when I became ill... I love you guys too much and pray for all of your health and safety. All my best to you, your families and your charges on the rinks of the area.
To all the young referees out there... always believe in your ability and don't be afraid to make the tough calls. There are always games no matter where you are... stay involved and stay focused.
And lastly, my sincerest thanks to all of the parents who were responsible for my involvement in the sport from the beginning. It is your faith in me that has seen me through a tough avocation and hopefully your prayers will see me through a tougher battle for life.
Adieu.
John Moritz
USAH/USAH-IL Official 1920726
John's Cancer Journey
[ Modified 9/25/2008 4:32pm by JMM1021 ]
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