Monday, January 15, 2007

Refs Announced for All-Star Game

The USHL has announced the refs that will be making the trip to Waterloo for the all-star game on January 30th. The two referees will be Joe Sullivan and Mike McCreary. The linesmen will be Justin Lyle and Mark Bradley.

Sullivan, who wasn't too popular last year, seems to have improved some this year. He still has his "off" nights, but who doesn't? He's also developing, so mistakes will happen. I think Sullivan has earned his spot this year, as there doesn't seem to be much for talent this year among refs.

McCreary on the other hand, is probably one of the worst refs I have witnessed this year. I'm not sure why he was chosen, but what can I do about it?

I think this blurb could explain why McCreary would be selected:

My officiating career started in 1997 with a lot of enthusiasm — enthusiasm that slowly disappeared after exposure to the brutal underworld of hockey: the petty politics that determine who advances. I slowly learned that ability doesn’t matter in officiating, instead it’s about who you know.

I'm sure it helps that his dad is a little higher up.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I can't believe I'm saying this but I agree that Sullivan is a step above the rest of the refs in the USHL this year. BUT being a step above the rest isn't that hard considering this is the worst overall officiating I've seen in 5 years.

I understand that this is a developmental league even for the officials....but man....I would hate to see the officials in the NAHL if this is a step up.

Anonymous said...

McCreary was absolutely horrible Friday 1/19 at Cedar Rapids. I have to wonder how on earth he was selected for the all-star game.