Jake Penrose had one major goal heading into the 2024-25 season.
He wanted to become a head official in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL). At his age, some may have thought it would be a tall task and one that not many can achieve. But when you see Jake and understand what he is all about, you will quickly realize that no stage is too large for him.
He's a driven young man who has dedicated countless hours to honing his craft. On June 19, Jake got a phone call from the league's director of officiating Pat Gagnon and it was a call he will never forget. Pat congratulated Jake and welcomed him to the elite group of referees that would work games this season.
From Dauphin, it was a proud moment.
"It feels great, I achieved my goal which is very important," said Penrose. "I was lucky enough to have a very good camp in the spring and then I was hired on, feels awesome."
The countdown was on. Jake was months away at that point from reffing his first MJHL game and was thrilled to know that it would come in his hometown. Penrose was one of the officials for the Dauphin Kings' home opener as they welcomed the Virden Oil Capitals on September 21.
Penrose skated on the ice with a big smile and in front of more than 1100 fans, many of which he knew and cared dearly for, he was right where he wanted to be.
"I was emotional and excited, it was great that I had the chance to do it in my hometown," offered Penrose. "I know my parents wore my jerseys in the crowd which was very special to me. Some of my friends were there as well and everyone was congratulating me after it. It was nice to be back in my hometown for that one, a night I won't forget."
As he makes his way up the ladder, Jake wants to thank Derian Penziwol. Derian will officiate his final MJHL game on October 27 at Credit Union Place when the Winkler Flyers are in town. Penziwol is a long-time official in the league and took Jake under his wing at a young age.
"We met at the golf course a few years ago and he brought me up the ropes with him, he has been the key person in my success so far," said Penrose. "He has other things that require his attention and I'm super happy for him. I am extremely grateful for everything that he has done for me and will continue to do for me. He's a great man and I wish him the best."
Four games into his journey as a referee in the MJHL, Jake is pleased with how things are going.
"From the feedback I have received, I think I've done pretty well and am settling in nicely," said Penrose. "It has been nice to work with senior officials, they're helping me navigate things. I'm just trying to improve every game."
Jake notes the biggest learning curve has been adapting to the pace of play.
"It's very different compared to what I have worked in the past which is minor hockey," continued Penrose. "Just learning to navigate through the situations, the scrums and all that. It's definitely a big step up but I think I'm doing well."
Penrose will be back on the ice next Friday as a head man when the Parkland U18 Rangers play.
