The Greater Toronto Hockey League community continues to honour the life and legacy of longtime official and Referee-in-Chief, Brian Coles, who passed away in February 2025 following a courageous battle with cancer.
Throughout the 2025–26 season, GTHL officials will wear “COLES” helmet stickers in tribute to Brian’s remarkable 54 years of dedication to the game and his lasting impact on the officiating community.
Beginning his officiating journey in the Toronto Hockey League (THL) in the late 1960s, Brian went on to serve as an on-ice official and Referee-in-Chief across the THL, Metro Toronto Hockey League (MTHL), GTHL, and Ontario Hockey Association (OHA). A respected leader and mentor, Brian guided countless young officials and was known for his integrity, strength, and unwavering passion for the game.
Brian’s legacy in officiating continues through his grandson, Liam, who proudly follows in his footsteps as an official in the OMHA and OHA.
