Paul Stewart: Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

Super blog today, Stewie. I would be interested in your thoughts on the pros and cons of refs and linesmen being assigned in set "crews" for periods of time (even for seasons) as umpires in baseball are as opposed to having different partners from game to game. Would this create better cohesion and communication among them, or is it better that officials work with and thus get to know all (or most) of the others over the course of a season? Would the logistics of this be too difficult to manage effectively? Would this make playoff assignments easier or more difficult? Also as you have worked both, what are your views on the one referee vs two referee systems? Any thoughts you would have on this would be appreciated (or perhaps this might take a blog length response).


The "Third" Team

Stewy, I just signed up to follow your blog.Very interesting reading and I will spread the word. I love what you have accomplished and the enthusiasm you put in to all you do. There is alot people can learn about hard work ,determination and a passion for life that you can pass on to all who will listen. A great story teller as well.Coach D.

Paul Stewart: Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
- Paul Stewart

Great blog.

It's interesting and important to understand the perspective of referees and linesman. Having worn the stripes myself, I know the importance of communicating to your partners, not only before and after the game, but more importantly, throughout the game as well.

What most fans are not aware of is the constant talking between the on ice officials during a contest - covering up for a partner when he gets tied up within the play, falls/gets knocked down, or, as you explained, make your partner aware of what's going on out of his view.

You discussed how your team went over tendencies before the game, I found it was also important to know your own crew's tendencies as well, and they, yours. It helped greatly for a smoother, more consistent game.

Why is Chris Less still a ref in the NHL?

Interesting read Stewie. I had no idea things got that heated in the officials locker room. I'm curious as to what your take is on the Instigator rule, whether the time has come to scrap it, or if it really is a deterrent.

It seems to me, there is a lot more targeting a player's head on hits, and embellishing incidental contact than there used to be back in your player days.

Interesting read Stewie. I had no idea things got that heated in the officials locker room. I'm curious as to what your take is on the Instigator rule, whether the time has come to scrap it, or if it really is a deterrent.

It seems to me, there is a lot more targeting a player's head on hits, and embellishing incidental contact than there used to be back in your player days.
- Desert_Dog

This blog talked about the instigator rule: http://www.hockeybuzz.com...ost_id=54937#.UmnHbvlwrTB

This blog talked about the instigator rule: http://www.hockeybuzz.com...ost_id=54937#.UmnHbvlwrTB
- bmeltzer

Thanks Bill