Follow Paul on Twitter: @PaulStewart22
We are now several game to the NHL's second season; the Stanley Cup playoffs. One thing that never goes out of season, though, is fans griping about officiating.
I have a better idea. Rather than complaining about issues both imagined and real, why not try to be part of the solution. This goes out especially to the younger crowd.
We are still looking for young people to start officiating. I will help you even of you don't live near me. You can reach me via PM here at HockeyBuzz. We need referees and linesmen everywhere.
On a related note, I was saddened recently that one of my young referees is moving away from The East going to Wyoming for his personal life and to start to work. I am hoping to help this young man...there will be Hockey for him to work, there are games everywhere and he can skate. He worked The Frozen Four several years, previously attended an NHL camp and he played junior hockey. The guy can skate as well as anyone. Away from the rink, he got his degree and has been a finance pro for the last few years. If anybody know of anything hockeywise out near Jackson Hole, please message me.
Another friend, a tough guy whom I used to fight in the minor leagues and the World Hockey Association, was recently diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus. I will help this friend as best I can...I do have a few contacts in the cancer world. Prayers for my bud, please. He was one tough dude on the ice, and is just as tough now. He's facing his challenges with stoic courage.
hings like that provide a lot of perspective. At the end of the day, a hockey game -- even one in the playoffs -- is just a game. Otherwise, it's been a beautiful day in the neighborhood. I am off to FLA at the end of the month for The College Coach's convention.
*********
Paul Stewart holds the distinction of being the first U.S.-born citizen to make it to the NHL as both a player and referee. On March 15, 2003, he became the first American-born referee to officiate in 1,000 NHL games.
Today, Stewart serves as director of hockey officiating for the ECAC.