As we celebrate the 45th anniversary of the Oak Ridges Men’s Recreational Hockey League, we want to recognize someone who has been a big part of our league for many of those years — David McQuarrie.

Dave has been a referee with the Oaks for more than 30 years, including many years as our head referee. He didn’t just show up to call games. Dave helped make sure we had officials every night, understood the kind of hockey we wanted to play, and gave countless hours of his own time because he genuinely cared about this league and the people in it.

Over the past couple of years, Dave has been battling cancer. Last season, our league came together to raise some money to help Dave and his family, and the response from our players was something we were incredibly proud of.

Through 45 years, the Oaks has always been about more than hockey. It’s about the people who show up year after year and become part of the league’s history.

Dave is certainly one of those people.

As we celebrate 45 years of ORMRHL hockey, we want to thank Dave for everything he has given to the league and let him know that everyone in the Oaks continues to be in his corner.

Thanks for all the years, Dave.