 Last week, Ref’s Crease hosted a live “How to Become a Hockey Ref” webinar, and we were thrilled to welcome a group of aspiring officials from all ages and regions. With USA Hockey registration now open, this was the perfect time to kick off the season with an informative session that answered questions and helped future refs get started.
Thank you to everyone who attended and for all the thoughtful questions during our Q&A. Whether you're completely new or looking to advance to the next level, we were excited to walk through the essential steps and share helpful resources. Topics We Covered:
Some Great Questions from the Q&A Included: Q: How many seasons can I stay Level 1 before moving to Level 2? A: You can remain at Level 1 for multiple seasons, but advancement is encouraged once you're ready. Q: What are the possible earnings for a Level 1 official per game? A: It varies by location and availability—generally, newer officials start with lower-level games and earn more with experience. Q: Once I attend a seminar, am I certified to ref? A: Almost! You’ll also need to complete SafeSport training, a background check (if applicable by age), and pass the open-book rules test. Q: Will this interfere with my high school hockey schedule? A: Not at all. You can block out dates you’re unavailable, including school and sports commitments. The schedule is flexible! Q: How many times can I take the test? A: As many times as needed until you get all 40 questions correct. A Big Thank YouSpecial thanks to Stephen Finkel and Jason Bisbing for helping us run the webinar and sharing their insights as experienced officials. Here at Ref’s Crease, we’re committed to shaping the future of hockey officiating by providing real-time support, education, and events like this to ensure our referees are confident and ready to hit the ice. Key Dates to Remember: 🗓️ November 20, 2025 – USA Hockey registration closes (not rolling!) 🗓️ December 31, 2025 – All certification requirements must be completed to officiate this season 🔗 Helpful Links: Stay Connected Want to join a future webinar or get the latest updates? Follow Ref’s Crease on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the loop!
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 From youth leagues to D1 college hockey, Conor Foley has quickly built a name for himself in the world of officiating. A familiar face in rinks across the Northeast, Conor’s journey began in 2018, and in just a few short years, he's risen through the ranks thanks to his hustle, humility, and love of the game. From the Sidelines to Center Ice Conor first picked up a whistle during his junior year of high school, looking for a job that could work around his busy sports schedule. A multi-sport athlete (football, lacrosse, and indoor track), officiating quickly became more than a side gig—it became a passion.  "I’d open up every Sunday, get three games in the morning, three in the afternoon," he recalls. "It was an easy way to make some money, and I loved being around the game." Despite a pause during COVID, Conor dove into officiating full-time in 2021 and hasn’t looked back. Since then, he’s worked over 30 D3 games, moved into D1 assignments, and wrapped this past season with major milestones—including playoff games, high-profile matchups, and a dream assignment at Capital One Arena, home of the Washington Capitals. The Ref’s Crease Connection From day one, Conor has been part of the Ref’s Crease family. "I met Gene at my first seminar and signed up right there. He's really the only person I’ve worked for on the youth and junior side." That support system has been critical to Conor’s growth. “Even if Gene’s not at the rink, he’s watching games, reviewing clips, giving feedback. You never know when he’s going to show up—and that keeps you sharp.” That feedback, he says, is crucial for development. “It’s easy to fall into bad habits when you’re reffing all the time. Having supervisors who catch those things helps keep you on your game.”  Memorable Moments on the Ice When asked about standout games, Conor doesn’t hesitate. “My first full-time year, I worked an NCDC playoff game—game three, elimination. Things got out of hand. I got punched during a fight, and we ended up with over 200 penalty minutes. That one definitely sticks.” But not all the highlights are that chaotic. “Getting to skate the Penn State vs. Army game in DC was amazing. Capital One Arena is where the Caps play—I got to see all their facilities. That was a moment I won’t forget.”  Brotherhood in Stripes
Beyond the games, it’s the friendships that keep Conor motivated. "The best part about reffing is the crew. It doesn’t even feel like work when you’re with the right group. Between long car rides, hotel stays, and back-to-back games, those bonds really matter." That camaraderie carries over to the ice. “If you’re not connecting off the ice, it shows in the game. Good relationships help with game flow, trust, and communication.” Advice for Aspiring Officials Conor’s advice to new referees? Be ready for anything. “You never know when an opportunity will come up. My first junior game happened because another official forgot his skates. I was there, I filled in, and things took off from there.” He encourages young officials to treat every game like it matters. “You won’t get big games overnight, but if you stay focused and put in the work, they’ll come.” Whether he's breaking up scrums, calling high-stakes playoff games, or cheering on his favorite team — the Boston Bruins — Conor Foley embodies what it means to wear the stripes with pride. At Ref’s Crease, we’re proud to support his journey both on and off the ice.  On Tuesday, Referee’s Crease founder Gene Binda took a stand—off the ice—by testifying before the Massachusetts House Committee in support of Bill H.1625: "An Act Relative To The Assault On And Aggravated Harassment Of Sports Officials."
Gene was joined by longtime Massachusetts hockey advocate Dan Esdale, a long time supporter of officials and their safety. Together, they spoke on behalf of the thousands of officials who keep sports running smoothly—and safely. “We’re not just blowing whistles out there,” said Gene Binda. “Officials are educators, role models, and guardians of the game. We need to ensure they feel safe doing their jobs—so the game can stay safe for everyone.” Here at Ref's Crease, we’ve always believed in protecting our officials—on and off the ice. While we’re known for assigning top-tier hockey officials, our mission runs deeper. We advocate for those in stripes because they’re the unsung backbone of every game. And yes—believe it or not—Gene stepped away from the golf course, mid-peak season, to make this testimony happen. That’s how much this matters. We’ll continue to keep you updated and in the meantime, we encourage everyone in the hockey community to stand with us in supporting the safety and respect of all sports officials. We’ve got your back. Always.  Looking to level up your officiating game? The Massachusetts Officials Development Program is now accepting applications for its 2025 camp, held alongside the CCM Player Development Festival—a showcase for the top young hockey talent in the state.
🏒 Camp Details:
Why Attend? This two-weekend camp offers officials a unique opportunity to grow through:
What You’ll Gain As part of USA Hockey’s High Performance Camp system you'll gain:
Whether you're aiming for junior, college, or pro hockey, this camp is a proven stepping stone. Ready to Take the Next Step? Submit your application by May 1, 2025 at 5:00 PM ET. Space is limited—don’t miss this opportunity to advance your officiating career. 📩 Apply today: [email protected] | [email protected]  In this edition of Standout Stripes, we shine the spotlight on Chris Henry, a dedicated and passionate official whose journey from college club hockey player to Frozen Four referee is as inspiring as it is impressive. From Club Hockey to the Crease Chris’s officiating story began just over a decade ago while he was attending the University of Central Florida. What started as a side hustle—something to earn extra cash while playing for the UCF Club Hockey Team—turned into a true calling. “I had the hands of a baby seal and the playmaking ability of a walnut,” Chris jokes. “Once I realized my playing career probably had its limits, officiating gave me a way to stay involved in the game.” After stepping away from the bench, Chris began reffing junior and club hockey in Florida, where his passion for the craft quickly grew. A move to Boston opened new doors, including a chance encounter with Gene Binda—one of the most respected figures in the world of officiating. With Gene's mentorship and support, Chris found himself moving up the ranks to work Division I and III games, eventually earning spots in the Southern Pro League and, most recently, officiating at the NCAA Frozen Four.  Growth Through Ref’s Crease Chris credits much of his development to Ref’s Crease, a community and training resource that’s played a huge role in shaping his approach and mindset as an official. “Ref’s Crease has helped me grow in too many ways to count,” he says. “The people—especially the veteran officials—took me under their wing and helped me sharpen my craft. I’ve got to give a special shoutout to Mark Riley, who’s been instrumental in my growth with his honest feedback and constant support.” Chris also points to video breakdown sessions with Geno as a game-changer. “Seeing the game through his eyes completely shifted how I thought about positioning, judgment, and game management. It really helped me move from just ‘working games’ to understanding how to manage them.” Stories from the Road Ask any official and they'll tell you - the real memories aren’t always made on the ice. For Chris, the moments between games often stand out the most. “There are so many stories—though not all of them are PG,” he laughs. “But the best ones are the road trips. The music, the debates, the late-night food runs. That’s the stuff that sticks with you. It’s about the brotherhood and the relationships you build along the way.” Advice to the Next Generation When it comes to advice for new officials, Chris keeps it real: “Enjoy the ride. Don’t rush the process. The lower levels are where you learn the most—how to read a game, manage chaos, and develop confidence. Mistakes at 9 a.m. in front of a few parents are a lot better than mistakes in front of thousands during a primetime game. Build the right habits early, and those big opportunities will come.”  The Joy of the Job For Chris, being a ref is about more than just enforcing rules—it's a chance to stay connected to a game he loves. “My favorite part is the relationships—seeing familiar faces, traveling to new cities, and being part of something bigger. Honestly, it’s the best side job anyone could ask for. Not everyone gets to work a 9-to-5 during the week and then throw on the stripes to ref a college hockey game at night. We’re lucky to be part of this world.” Frozen Four: A Dream Realized Chris’s recent experience reffing at the Frozen Four marked a major milestone in his career. “Unreal,” he says. “It’s the kind of opportunity you dream about when you’re just starting out. The energy, the pressure, the pride—it’s all there. I prepared by diving into film, visualizing scenarios, and making sure I was mentally and physically locked in. It’s a huge responsibility, but moments like that make it all worth it.” A Capitals Fan for Life Outside of officiating, Chris is a die-hard Washington Capitals fan—long before the Ovechkin era began. “I’ve followed them through the highs and (many) lows. The 2018 Stanley Cup run was unbelievable. Seeing them finally lift the Cup after years of heartbreak? I’ll never forget it.”  Grateful for the Journey
As Chris reflects on how far he’s come, one word keeps coming up: grateful. “Hockey has given me so much—friendships, life lessons, unforgettable experiences. Officiating was supposed to be a side gig, and now it’s given me opportunities I never imagined. If you put in the work, stay passionate, and surround yourself with the right people, amazing things can happen. I’m proud of the journey so far, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”  For Seamus Ross, the path to becoming a top-notch referee started long before his first official game. Growing up in a hockey family, Seamus was always surrounded by the world of officiating, thanks to his father’s long career as a Linesman in the AHL and Hockey East. From an early age, Seamus was fascinated by the referee role, often accompanying his dad to games and getting a behind-the-scenes look at the life of an official. In 2019, at just 14 years old, Seamus decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and take up officiating himself. He started with cross-ice and peewee games, steadily moving up through the ranks. In his second year, he took on midget-level games, and by the time he was a freshman in high school, Seamus officiated his first junior game alongside Casey Terrari for the Avalanche in Hooksett. It didn’t take long for Seamus to develop into one of the most promising young officials. During his sophomore year, he was officiating junior games while also balancing his own high school hockey career. That same season, he had the honor of officiating his first college game for the NEWHA and working the USPHL playoffs at Cyclones, where he was selected to be a Linesman for both the Elite and EHLP championship games that year. As Seamus continued to grow in his officiating career, so did the level of competition he worked with. By his junior year, Seamus was officiating the USPHL Premier Finals and the Dineen Cup Finals in Long Island. Even as he focused on his final high school hockey season, Seamus remained dedicated to his refereeing career, officiating both the third-place game and the championship for the EHLP playoffs during his senior year. The Impact of Ref's Crease A big part of Seamus’s development as an official has been the guidance he’s received from Ref's Crease, a community dedicated to shaping the future of hockey officials. Seamus credits the supervision staff at Ref's Crease for offering invaluable feedback and helping him grow into the skilled official he is today. The Monday Night Quarterback (MNQB) Zoom sessions have been particularly helpful for Seamus, allowing him to understand how supervisors expect games to be called and providing him with the tools to navigate the unpredictable situations that are inevitable in the fast-paced world of officiating.  Noteworthy Stories from the Ice As with any career, being a referee comes with its fair share of memorable moments. For Seamus, one of the most unforgettable stories took place during the EHLP championship in Providence. While there, he and fellow referee Ben Leaton found themselves sneaking into the NCAA regionals at the Amica Mutual Pavilion—twice—as the “back-up to the back-up officials.” While the experience was fun and lighthearted, it’s just one of the many unexpected adventures Seamus has had in his journey. Another story that stands out for Seamus occurred during an ACHA game, where a fan threw a baseball-sized puck at a player’s head after it had been deflected out of play. Situations like these are part of what makes being a referee so challenging, but Seamus has learned how to handle difficult situations with professionalism and composure. Advice for Aspiring Refs For those just starting out in officiating, Seamus offers some invaluable advice: "Find a mentor and be open to learning from their experience. Accept every assignment, no matter the distance or level—never think you’re 'too good' for any game. Ask questions and do your homework before stepping on the ice; know the coaches, key players, enforcers, divers, and any history between the teams. Work as a team with your fellow officials and always have their backs. Own up to mistakes, address unprofessional behavior from coaches early, and rely on the rulebook—it’s your greatest asset." This advice reflects Seamus’s humble and dedicated approach to officiating. He believes that learning is a lifelong process, and every game—whether big or small—offers an opportunity to grow as an official.  What Seamus Loves Most About Being a Ref For Seamus, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a referee is the relationships he’s built along the way. From fellow officials to coaches, players, and arena staff, the people he meets through officiating have made the experience all the more special. Seamus enjoys the camaraderie and mutual respect that comes from working as part of a team with fellow officials, especially when everyone works together to ensure the game is called fairly and consistently. Seamus is a firm believer in the importance of fitness, and officiating is a job that demands peak performance on the ice. A Standout Weekend at the USPHL Championships Recently, Seamus had the honor of officiating the USPHL Premier National Championship series, which provided him with another unforgettable experience. Reflecting on the weekend, he says, “It was an honor to officiate another USPHL championship in such an exciting and competitive atmosphere. The opportunity to work with new teams and officials made for a memorable weekend filled with high-level hockey and valuable experiences. The intense competition and big-game environment provided me with invaluable experience that will help me as I continue advancing in higher-stakes hockey.” Looking Ahead As Seamus continues to rise through the ranks of officiating, it’s clear that his commitment and dedication to his craft are key ingredients in his success. Whether he’s officiating junior games, college games, or USPHL championships, Seamus is one of the top names to watch in the world of hockey officiating. And when he’s not on the ice he’s watching his favorite NHL team, the Bruins being a true New England native.   In the fast-paced and often intense world of hockey, officials play a pivotal role in ensuring the game is played fairly and with respect. Among these dedicated professionals, one name that stands out is Russ Rubinson, a true leader in the sport and the first-ever recipient of the Terry Partridge Beyond the Whistle Award presented by Ref’s Crease. Russ received the prestigious award during the USPHL Premier National Championship & NCDC Combine Series weekend, where he also officiated a USPHL game during this high-profile series. The award ceremony took place in front of the USA Hockey NYSAHA Long Island Officiating Program, with an audience of 15 aspiring young officials eager to learn from the best in the business. Among the special guests were influential figures from the hockey industry, including former NHL referees, underscoring the significance of the moment and the respect Russ commands in the officiating community.  As the first recipient of this special honor, Russ was overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement. “To be the first recipient of this award is incredibly humbling,” he shared. “Ref’s Crease is the only organization that focuses on developing officials, and to be recognized by them means the world to me. There are so many young, talented officials coming up through the ranks who deserve recognition as well, and I’m just honored to be a part of that community.”
The Terry Partridge Beyond the Whistle Award, named in honor of Terry Partridge, is given to individuals who not only demonstrate an exceptional level of professionalism on the ice but also embody the spirit of fairness, responsibility, and passion for the game off the ice. The award, established by Ref’s Crease, is a testament to the significant impact that officials like Russ have on the development of the sport and the next generation of hockey leaders. Gene Binda, Founder of Ref’s Crease, had high praise for Russ: “Every game Russ gives 110% on and off the ice. He’s a pleasure to have on staff, and I wish I could have 20 of him to work with. His work ethic and enthusiasm are exceptional. Russ is a true inspiration to all officials, and he is beyond deserving of this award.” Russ’s unwavering commitment to excellence and the respect he has earned from both his peers and players across the hockey community are reflected in these heartfelt words. His recognition serves as an inspiration not only to the young officials present at the award ceremony but to all who strive to make the game better, both on and off the ice. Russ was also recently featured in Ref’s Crease’s Standout Stripes column, further solidifying his role as a trailblazer and leader in the hockey officiating community. This award is not just a personal triumph for Russ Rubinson but also a milestone for the Ref’s Crease community, which continues to raise the bar in developing and shaping the future of hockey officiating. Are you ready to take your officiating career to the next level? This summer, we’re offering an exciting opportunity for female hockey officials at the Women’s Beantown Hockey Officials Camp from July 17th–20th in Marlborough, Massachusetts. This camp is designed to empower women in hockey officiating, and we’re proud to be offering it as a free event in collaboration with USA Hockey and NCAA Division 1, 2 and 3.
What to Expect at the Camp: This is more than just a camp – it’s an immersive experience that will provide you with the tools, guidance, and connections to help you shape your future in the world of hockey officiating. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Important Details:
This is your chance to be part of something bigger, to grow as an official, and to shape the future of women in hockey officiating. Blazing Trails: Women Shaping the Future of Hockey Officiating isn’t just a tagline – it’s a movement, and it’s happening right now. The Future is Female, and It’s On the Ice. Join us in July to help pave the way for future generations of female hockey officials!  In the fast-paced and often intense world of hockey, officials play a pivotal role in ensuring the game is played fairly and with respect. Among these dedicated professionals, Russ Rubinson stands out as a prime example of what it means to be a true leader in the sport. For his outstanding dedication, professionalism, and commitment to shaping the future of hockey, Russ is not only one of our Standout Stripes but also the recipient of Ref’s Crease first ever award! Russ has been selected for the 2024 Terry Partridge Beyond the Whistle Award. This prestigious award, named in honor of Terry Partridge, recognizes the exceptional contributions of referees who not only demonstrate a high level of professionalism on the ice but also embody the spirit of fairness, responsibility, and passion off the ice. The award will be presented at the USPHL National Championships on Friday March 21st. This award marks the first-ever award of its kind for Ref’s Crease. “Every game Russ gives 110% on and off the ice. He’s a pleasure to have on staff and wish I could have 20 of him to work with - he’s work ethic and enthusiasm is exceptional. Russ is a true inspiration to all officials and is beyond deserving of this award,” says Gene Binda, Founder of Ref’s Crease.” This sentiment reflects Russ’s unwavering commitment and the respect he’s earned from both peers and players across the hockey community. A Decade of Dedication Russ’s journey as an official began in the 2015-2016 season, marking nearly a decade of service in the world of junior and college-level hockey. Over the years, he’s refined his skills, learned from some of the best in the industry, and developed a deep love for the game. His work as an official spans across multiple leagues, with a focus on the junior and collegiate ranks. One of the key influences on Russ’s development as an official has been his involvement with Ref’s Crease. In his second season working full-time with the organization, Russ highlights how Ref’s Crease has helped shape his career. "Ref's Crease has provided me with the opportunity to learn from seasoned officials. It’s a place where professionalism is instilled both on and off the ice, and that has been invaluable in my development,” Russ shared.  Humble Learning and Growth Russ recalls a particularly memorable experience working an NCAA D2 college game, where he had the opportunity to learn from some of the best officials in the business. Additionally, his time officiating at the Utica USPHL Nationals was a highlight, where he worked alongside top-tier officials and was humbled by the chance to learn firsthand from their expertise. "Being surrounded by such experienced officials is a humbling experience," he said. "It’s a chance to learn and grow, and I take every opportunity to absorb knowledge from those around me."  Advice for Aspiring Officials When asked about advice for future referees, Russ was quick to emphasize the importance of learning from every experience. "Don’t take criticism personally," he advises. "Even NHL officials make mistakes. If you're not learning, you're not growing. The game evolves constantly, and you need to evolve with it." For Russ, being a referee isn't just about enforcing the rules—it’s about embracing the physical and mental challenges that come with the role. "I love the challenge. It feels like being an athlete—the way you have to stay alert and skate into the right positions, anticipating the action. It’s an exciting and rewarding part of the job,” says Russ.  Honored and Excited for the Future As the first-ever recipient of the Terry Partridge Beyond the Whistle Award, Russ expressed a deep sense of gratitude and excitement. "To be the first recipient of this award is incredibly humbling. Ref's Crease is the only organization that focuses on developing officials, and to be recognized by them means the world to me. There are so many young, talented officials coming up through the ranks who deserve recognition as well, and I’m just honored to be a part of that community,” says Russ. Russ is quick to mention that resources like the Monday Night Quarterback (MNQB) Zoom series and Facebook / YouTube educational videos are key tools for any official's development, along with the hockey rulebook. "The rulebook is your best friend," he said. "Certain situations arise on the ice, and having a solid understanding of the rules can make all the difference." Looking Ahead As Russ looks toward the future, he’s excited to continue growing as an official and contributing to the game he loves. He’s deeply grateful for the opportunities he’s had so far and looks forward to what lies ahead. When asked about his favorite hockey team, Russ shared he loves watching hockey in general but if he had to pick it would be the New York Islanders since he works at that rink. He went on to share that he truly roots for the NHL Officials.  We at Ref’s Crease are incredibly proud to honor Russ Rubinson with the Terry Partridge Beyond the Whistle Award. His dedication, passion, and professionalism are an inspiration to all who share in the love of the game. Here's to many more years of officiating excellence, Russ!
 At Ref’s Crease, we're dedicated to helping our officials grow and advance. This spring, we’re excited to offer a special opportunity to help you level up your game with the USPHL NCDC Combine Series. The remaining locations--Detroit, Southern California, Boston, and Chicago—are now open for interested officials to apply.
If you're an official aiming to advance to the college level of hockey, this is your chance to sharpen your skills, gain valuable experience, and get noticed by top scouts and coaches in the hockey world. USPHL Combines Spring Schedule For each location below, please fill out the form for the series you’re interested in working. We’ll review your application and get in touch with you directly. What’s Included?
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