Paul Stewart: Olympic Officials: Jeux Sans Frontieres?

As usual, an excellent, perceptive and timely blog Stewie. And special congratulations to Philadelphia native Ian Walsh for being selected as one of the seven NHL referees to be working the Olympic Games in Sochi!!


Philadelphia's own NHL and Olympic referee Ian Walsh

Another great read Stewie. My question for you is what is the policy about picking the same officials to work multiple Olympics? Peter Feola worked in Vancouver, does that mean he wasn't put high on the list because he has already had the chance to officiate the Olympics?

Also on the women's side it seems that the best might not get selected due to what nationality those officials are. 2 Canadian 2 American etc. I am not saying that European women officials aren't qualified but it seems odd to make sure each country has 2 representatives even if they aren't as qualified as a Canadian or American official that didn't get selected because 2 of her fellow countrywomen are already selected.

Love your blogs Paul.

I'm all for having as many NHL guys officiating as possible. I've seen too many other sports (looking at you basketball) where European officials start calling a game way differently than the USA professionals are used to.

The best teams in the tourney will be made up of mostly NHL players. What we don't need is some Latvian ref to make a splash by showing the big boys how the game should be called.

Keep up the interesting blogs. I enjoy your take and insight into this great sport. Thanks.