The UO Blog

HBO's 24/7 Road to the Winter Classic Begins Tonight

2011-12-14T09:43:00.000-06:00

http://ultimateofficials.blogspot.com/2011/12/hbos-247-road-to-winter-classic-begins.html

Jan 2nd, Philadelphia v New York

Watching HBO's Road to the Winter Classic last year was easily one of the best hockey documentaries I have ever seen. Ever. I checked the stuff out on youtube, because I don't subscribe to HBO. You should check it out on youtube as well, but you gotta do it quick before HBO takes it down.

Here is the preview to this year's show. Once again, easily the best produced hockey documentary you could ever watch:

Preview to 24/7 Flyers/Rangers: Road to NHL Winter Classic '11

We All Could Learn A Lot From Mr. Burke

2011-12-12T12:05:00.000-06:00

http://ultimateofficials.blogspot.com/2011/12/we-all-could-learn-lot-from-mr-burke.html

Brian Burke - Toronto Maple Leafs GM
Class of Edina, MN HS 1973

You got twenty two minutes of your time to spare to listen to a very open,

very candid interview with Brian Burke?

Watch the video in the link for theScore.com blog

Topics covered include:

wanting to punch players in the head when they complain about ice time
picking a barn yard fight with Kevin Lowe
his take on gay rights and homophobic slurs

http://blogs.thescore.com/nhl/2011/12/12/the-full-brian-burke-interview-beyond-the-barn-fight/

The section where he talks about using homophobic slurs reminds me of a section from one of the newsletters I provide on a frequent basis for all Ultimate Officials subscribing members, where I talked about Gareth Thomas, the only openly male gay professional team sport athlete. Here is part of what I wrote:

Gareth Thomas, Pro Rugby Player

On a side note to this story: You really should go read that SI story that is linked. I will openlyadmit that I was a bit of a homophobe. Iwould use the term, “faggot” all the time to describe somebody who I thoughtwas weak or feminine. I also thoughtthat whenever I heard people say, “I was born gay,” would just be a bunch ofB.S. After reading this story, if a guyfrom Welsh, who plays pro rugby, and is anything BUT feminine...well....I guessyou can be born gay. My tolerance leveljust went way up. After all, the StanleyCup took a ride in a gay pride parade in Chicago this past year, so even LordStanley’s trophy has some tolerance. Iguess I will just call soft and weak people “pussies” from now on. No offense to women, of course (hell, my wifeplayed college rugby...the woman was a hooker!).

Also reminds me a lot from a blog post that I made after the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, following the Gold Medal Game in which Canada beat the United States in OT:

Video is the Best Learning Tool

2011-12-07T12:08:00.001-06:00

http://ultimateofficials.blogspot.com/2011/12/video-is-best-learning-tool.html

I Just Took This Pic in my "Situation Room"

Video can serve a hockey official (it's not just for players & coaches) so well; watching yourself, analyzing skating, critiquing penalty calls, using it as a teaching, it is the most powerful and effective medium Ultimate Officials uses.

Here is a testimonial I just received from a subscribing trainee in the Ultimate Officials Online Camp:

I KNOW for a fact if it weren't for the influence of you and the UO guys (even though I'm not the most "participatory"), there is no way this would have happened. (in reference to being selected as a junior official) M.M.

My wish is that I could have all the goodies that the NHL has in their "Situation Room". Check out the following video:

I saw the expanding use of the internet and visioned a "virtual classroom" to help teach and develop on ice officials. I am working with video on almost a daily basis, editing videos that I have shot myself while supervising games, watching those in junior hockey on FAST hockey online broadcasts to write up game notes, even using NHL videos and examples. So that picture of me up above is "what I do" for guys in the UO programs. I was recently interviewed by "Let's Play Hockey" and I talk about this in the article:

http://www.letsplayhockey.com/1051heyref.html

All online members of Ultimate Officials are emailed video situations on a weekly basis, have access to video tutorials, and some even receive DVD's of their game footage. Below is an example of a video from www.uoteach.blogspot.com

What Happened in November for UO

2011-12-05T13:57:00.001-06:00

http://ultimateofficials.blogspot.com/2011/12/what-happened-in-november-for-uo.html

It Wasn't Just All Movember in November!

Highlights From In and Around the Hockey World for Ultimate Officials in November 2011

* Jake Brenk is working out in the ECHL, making him the MN official working the highest level of hockey, besides Brian Mach, who is an NHL linesman (and, yes, I do put the ECHL above the WCHA).

* Cameron Voss, Kevin Cassidy continue to plug away as full time officials in the North American Hockey League.

* Speaking of NAHL and NAH3L, we had Tim Ferrel, Clayton Smith, Mike Diebold (first Jr game!), Nick Dornfeld, Nick Bradshaw, and Ryan Szymanski in action, too.

* Nick Bradshaw (USHL Games, too) also worked his first conference series in the WCHA - UAA at UMD.

* Shane Paskey worked a big series this past month for Women's WCHA - UMD at U of MN

* Nick Biondich continues to work games in the Women's WCHA.

* Mark McGinnis got hired by the Empire/AJHL and ACHA College Hockey.

* Eric Arndt got to work his first Division III Women's game.

* The Division III Season really got rolling for guys like Jamie Halverson, Adam Shadiow, Norm Gaskins, Duncan Ryhorchuk, Shane Paskey (1st ref assignment), and Nick Biondich.

* Joe Millette worked 12 junior games in the MJHL in November. That's every Fri, Sat, and Sunday! Must be doing something right, eh?

* Aaron Barlow keeps racking up ref games in the MJHL.

* Mike Diebold, in addition to his first junior game, also has been steady knocking out some Bantam A stripes.

* Clayton Smith got promoted to Bantam A referee, and has been doing a bunch of stripe games.

* I PERSONALLY HEARD WORD THAT ONE OFFICIAL (not listed here) HAS BEEN LOCKED IN FOR A PLAYOFF ASSIGNMENT IN JUNIOR HOCKEY NEXT SPRING! (I've been networking!)

* Other activity included the start of the Girls and Boys High School Seasons.

OVERALL: A SOLID MONTH, PRECEDED BY A LOT OF ADM ACTION, SURE TO BE FOLLOWED UP BY A BUSY AND REWARDING DECEMBER.

2011 UO Movember Page

2011-11-28T11:06:00.000-06:00

http://ultimateofficials.blogspot.com/2011/11/2011-uo-movember-page.html

Bylsma and Crosby sporting the "dusters"

2011 Ultimate Officials Movember Page

www.UO-MoBro.com

To donate to the "Movember" month-long cancer awareness charity drive by Ultimate Officials, please do the following:

1. Pay by Check

write all checks to "Zebra Foundation"

Send all checks to:
Zebra Foundation
3416 Jidana Lane
Minnetonka, MN 55345

* ALL PROCEEDS GO TO THE NHL Official's Association's Zebras Care Charity*

http://www.nhlofficials.com/zc.asp

2011 Up-to-Date Money Raised

$1028.00

(2010 Total:$1,195.30 )

Current Ultimate Officials "Mo Bros"

Jamie Halverson Clayton Smith

Mike Diebold Shane Paskey

Steve Miorana Skip Trumble

Greg Swiler Glendon Seal

Clarice Dahlke (wife's Aunt & Mo Sista)
Dana Penkevich Mike Trumble
Jason Worden Ross Callahan

Adam Shadiow   Pat Britt
Nick Biondich   Jason Olson
Robert Beckl Darren Glur
Phyllis Meyer (mom-in-law & Mo Sista)

Rick Nelson Joe Oberg

Brad Albers Brian Thul

Nick Bradshaw Andy Priley

2011 UO Pick Up Hockey Charity Game

It's Going to be a Big Game!

UO will be playing it's 2nd Annual "Movember" Charity Pick Up Hockey Game.

Monday November 28, 2011 - 9:20 pm

Velocity Hockey Center

Eden Prairie, MN

The Mustachioed Group of Hockey Referees Raised $553.00 in One Night!

Players from the 2011 Game:

White Team Black Team
Rick Nelson Clayton Smith

Mike Taylor Jamie Halverson

Glendon Seal Nick Bradshaw

Garret Gaydosh Shaney Paskey

Sean MacFarlane Brian Thul

Mike Diebold Dana Penkevich

Mike Trumble Andy Priley

Pat Britt Ross Callahan

Joe Oberg Brad Albers

Darren Glur J.B. Olson

Goalies:
Jason Olson Aaron

* BLACK TEAM WON IN A ONE PLAYER SUDDEN DEATH SHOOT OUT *

Conn Smythe Winner: Dana Penkevich

Concussions & Head Injuries for Hockey Officials

2011-11-28T11:05:00.001-06:00

http://ultimateofficials.blogspot.com/2011/11/concussions-head-injuries-for-hockey.html

Pat Dapuzzo, former NHL Linesman, now an NHL Scout

This story is not for the faint of heart. The video makes me "queasy" every time I watch it.

Here is the article from the NY Times about Pat Dapuzzo and the effects of head injuries he has received in his almost 2,000 games NHL career: NY Times Article

Excerpt from "Recovery Doesn’t Stop After Injuries Heal":

"After working four straight conference finals from 1991 to 1994, Dapuzzo missed the next season to be treated for depression. He returned for the 1995-96 season wearing a helmet for the first time, but he never worked a playoff game again."

Here is the video of the incident:

At Net Skills (plus some Knuckles)

2011-11-19T09:31:00.001-06:00

Are Those Sweet Ref sweaters with white buckets???

Preached time and time again here at UO is the "At-Net Skills" (see link). Not only is this a pretty goal, but check out the ref position (and his fancy uni):

Another video for fun (there is just a *few* punches thrown):

Another video, also just for fun, which is a major league deke job (TOAST! BURNT!):

But, Honey, Everyone is Doing It

2011-11-16T12:01:00.001-06:00

Brian Burke with the Duster Back in the Day

www.UO-mobro.com

My wife just commented today that she is upset about the fact that I have my mustache for two more weeks. Why? Doesn't she realize that EVERYONE else is doing it?

OK...not everyone else is sporting the 'stache....outside of the hockey world that is. How and why is it that it is so popular in the NHL? Because we can see their faces as they play? Unlike the NFL? You can see the faces of NBA players - oops, bad example :)

Here is a link to Puck Daddy's Top Ten Moosty's for Movember 2011. There are two coaches on the list AND I saw Brian Burke sporting a nice duster, too! (Couldn't find a recent pic of him, but I got the retro look above).

Top Ten List from Puck Daddy:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/The-10-greatest-NHL-mustaches-for-Movember-2011-?urn=nhl-wp17548

Tim Thomas' Goalie Mask for Movember

Movember UO PU Hockey Game

2011-11-15T10:05:00.001-06:00

The Boys from Movember 2010 Game

It's been a long time coming, but we are lacing them up again for some pick up hockey.

Bring your mustache, a small donation for the NHLOA's Zebras Care Charity, and get ready to have some fun!

WHO: Hockey Refs who Want to play some 3 on 3 hockey and have some FUN!!

WHAT: Ultimate Officials Pick Up (UOPU) Hockey Game - $10 a head - Goalies FREE- (or let me know you're bring Beer for afterwards!)

WHEN: Monday November 28, 2011 at 9:20 pm

WHERE: Velocity Hockey Center
7901 Fuller Road
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Phone: 952-937-0949

WHY: Because it is always so much. There is always someone who says, "This was much funner than I thought."

RSVP by emailing me (info@ultimateofficials.com)

Examples of Good Body Checks

2011-11-15T09:20:00.001-06:00

The Big Boys are Leading the Way with Player Safety Education

Don't know if you have seen this video segment put out by the NHL and Brendan Shannahan, but these are all good examples of body checks, body contact, angling, and good, clean, hard checks.

Take note in the first examples, that even though the attacking checker did NOT blow up a guy from behind, he was still effective in separating the man from the puck (as opposed to separating the man from consciousness).

This is Head Contact w/ a Screw Loose

2011-11-12T10:34:00.001-06:00

Now, I know that I have been on here before, confessing that I used to be a "head hunter" when I played, and that I actually wanted to hurt guys...I never took actions like this (WOW!):

And then the coach gets into it...

2011-11-07T13:26:00.001-06:00

This happened in the Russian KHL (and I worry about teaching my daughter's about having self-control):

And You Thought Halloween Was Scary

2011-10-31T12:36:00.002-05:00

My wife is absolutely dreading the fact that "Movember" is coming around again. She loves the idea of raising money for a great cause (UO donates all money to the NHLOA's Zebras Care Charity), she hates the fact that it involves a 'stache on my face.

It ain't that bad, is it?

Umm...that's me on the left.

Check out the video on Jonas Hiller's goalie mask for Movember:
http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=0&id=131170

www.UO-mobro.com

7 Days Until Movember

2011-10-16T11:41:00.000-05:00

What's Movember? Movember (the month formerly known as November) is a moustache-growing charity event held during November each year that raises funds and awareness for men's health.

UO wants you to join the fight.

The hockey community, from the NHL all the way down to peewee hockey, has always been very supportive of cancer awareness and fundraising. It's time for the "Zebras" to get in on the fight, too.

An NHL example:

The Zebra Foundation supports the NHL Officials Association - Zebras Care Charity


Josh Harding Cancer Awareness Helmet


The Great One and Staff with Cancer Awareness ties


NHLOA Hustle for a Cure

My mustache from Movember 2010

Tribute: This is to all those who are in the hockey community and beyond, who have been affected by cancer. We donate our faces to you!

Check out www.UO-MoBro.com to see this list of all the great people who joined our team.

Last Year We earned nearly $1200 in one month, which goes through my Zebra Foundation charity and on to the NHLOA's Zebras Care. Check out this blog for updates on the fabulous things that the NHLOA will do with the money. Good, heart-warming stuff.

Monthly highlights in 2010 included:

the "Movember for Moensie" pick up hockey game

UO Movember Hockey Game from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

the MN Wild "Guinness Book of World Records" Most Mustachioed Men in one Photo

Photo courtesy of Bruce Kluckhohn

The "barbs", the "jabs", the sneers at the mustaches we all grew.

Me and the Kids Getting Our "Mo" On

The association we have with the NHLOA's Zebras Care Charity

The UO Mo Bros in the NHL Ref Locker Room

The fun and enjoyment you can have bonding with a group of guys devoted to making the game of hockey the best it can be...ON and OFF the ice!

Or you can just donate right now (and grow your 'stache in November):

Maybe you could look like these guys:

Bill McCreary

Don Van Massenhoven


Rob Schick

Linkorama for laughs & giggles

2011-10-12T14:06:00.002-05:00

Enjoy the following viewpoint on the changing NHL:

Zebra Open in Let's Play Hockey

2011-10-12T11:04:00.003-05:00

The Zebra Open was just featured in the September 29, 2011 issue of "Let's Play Hockey".

To see the article, go to this link: http://www.letsplayhockey.com/1045heyref.html

NAHL Showcase - Ka-Boom!

2011-09-13T14:25:00.004-05:00

The Hockey Universe is in Blaine, MN Sep 14-18

September 14-18, 2011 (excerpt from www.nahl.com)

"Celebrating its 9th Anniversary this fall, the Combat Hockey/North American Hockey League (NAHL) Showcase Tournament has evolved into one of hockey's most prestigious and well-attended events of the entire season. For scouting purposes, the four-day event, in which all 28 NAHL teams play four regular-season games, is a can't-miss for every NCAA program and NHL team as they get their first look at some of the best and brightest hockey talent North America has to offer.

Located in the northern Minneapolis-St. Paul suburb of Blaine, Minnesota, the Schwan Super Rink is the largest ice arena of its kind in the world. The state-of-the-art facility, a $21 million project totaling over 300,000 square feet, features eight sheets of ice under one roof. With all its varied amenities and services, the Schwan Super Rink is absolutely unique in the world of ice sport facilities.

The North American Prospects Hockey League's (NAPHL) first event of the season, which will run from September 15-18, will again be played in conjunction with the Combat Hockey/NAHL Showcase Tournament. In its third season, the NAPHL is made up of 42 Midget Major (16), Midget Minor (16) and Bantam Major (10) teams from 17 programs that compete at the Tier I AAA level."

Ultimate Officials will have 16 officials, working over 100 different games, ranging from the NAHL Jr. A. Tier II, the NAH3L Jr. A. Tier III, the NAHPL, and the Upper Midwest High School League.

Officials who have been selected (in particular order):
Cameron Voss
Nick Bradshaw
Duncan Ryhorchuk
Neil Missling
Darren Glur
Eric Arndt
Neil Missling
Glendon Seal
Brendan Cohen
Tim Ferrel
Mike Diebold
Clayton Smith
Joe Millette
Jake Brenk
Ryan Szymanski
Kevin Cassidy
Joe Oberg

Want to Lose Fat and Build Muscle?

2011-09-13T06:52:00.005-05:00

Ultimate Officials is running a "Biggest Loser" competition. Right now there are 9 guys who are pushing themselves to be in top performance shape for the upcoming 2011-12 Season. And right now someone has the chance to not only shred some fat, build some muscle, BUT ALSO EARN $180 or MORE!

NEED HELP?

J.B. Olson is one test away from his Certified Personal Trainer's certificate. See the following video:

http://vimeo.com/28954440

http://ultimateofficials.com/hockey-skills--personal-training.html

email for more info: info@ultimateofficials.com

2011 Zebra Open Was a Huge Success!

2011-08-24T09:34:00.009-05:00

On Friday August 19th, 42 golfers, many hole sponsors and other hockey referees who donated raised money for a great cause: Fighting Cancer.

MONEY RAISED: $2440.00

WHO: People willing to give back.
(Winning Team at 15 Under Par: Brian Thul, Tom Sterns, Jeff Beckers, Zach Nelson)

WHAT: A charity fundraiser and golf event.

WHEN: August 19th, 2011

WHERE: Shakopee, MN

WHY: Because the hockey community cares.

** THANKS TO ALL WHO HELPED, GAVE UP THEIR TIME, ENERGY AND RESOURCES. YOU ALL ARE TRULY SPECIAL TO ME AND MY FAMILY

http://www.flickr.com/photos/61171621@N05/tags/2011/show/

A Call to Arms

2011-08-23T15:55:00.000-05:00

I Want You!

All online members of Ultimate Officials have been receiving weekly newsletters on our Summer of 2011 Curriculum Series - "Goal Setting".

Here is a link to a recent newsletter and a challenge for you: Click Here for the Link

Respond to info@ultimateofficials.com to answer the call.

2011 Zebra Open - Friday August 19th

2011-08-15T13:28:00.002-05:00

8th Annual Zebra Open

Friday August 19th

Stonebrooke Golf Club, Shakopee, MN

**ZEBRA FOUNDATION: We have established a foundation for the hockey officials in Minnesota, called the Zebra Foundation. The mission of the Zebra Foundation is “to support cancer patients and their families through donations.” Helping our fellow brothers and sisters in the referee world is what this cause is all about. Cancer can strike any of us or our families at any time, and the Zebra Foundation is here to help. Your participation ensures help for those in the future.

The Zebra Foundation donates money to the NHL Official’s Assocition – “Zebra Cares” https://www.nhlofficials.com/display_news.asp?articleID=513

2009 Picture Slide Show from the Zebra Open

http://www.flickr.com//photos/61171621@N05/show/

Stonebooke Golf Course

http://youtu.be/asWsIrAu8-Q

DONATIONS RECEIVED TO DATE:

$335.00

Make a Donation Online

The UO 2-1 Hockey Skills Camps

2011-07-28T16:49:00.003-05:00

The following video is a "highlight" video from the June and July Ultimate Officials 2-1 Hockey Skills Camps.

I call these camps "hockey skills" camps, because I stress that the officials work on hockey skills that can transfer over into any other system...regardless if it is the 1-2 system, the 2 official system, the 2-1 system, or the 4 official system.

Skills like: footwork, first-step speed, getting in the Golden Triangle and working the Golden Triangle, anticipation, and "at-net skills" are the skills that are stressed. Using summer hockey as a time to work on all of these skating (and mental) skills help ensure an even better performance for the next season. These camps are designed for those who are looking to continue their climb up the ladder. I hope you enjoy!

http://vimeo.com/27025329

2011 UO 2-1 Hockey Skills Camps from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

June 23-24 Camp Officials:

Joe Millette

Mike Diebold

Brian Thul (trainer)

Matt Butchko

Jeff Beckers (trainer)

Robert Beckl

Jamie Halverson

Eric Arndt

Clayton Smith

July 22-24 Camp Officials:

Nick Bradshaw

Brendan Cohen

Jason Olson

Cameron Voss

Clayton Smith

Joe Millette

Zebra Open 2011 - 8th Annual - Donate Online

2011-07-21T16:07:00.004-05:00

Can't Make It - I'd Like to Help!

WHAT IF YOU CAN'T MAKE THE ZEBRA OPEN?:

If you are unable to make it, but would like to make a donation that goes straight to the Zebra Foundation and to the NHL Official's Association Zebras Care Charity (link here),

CLICK ON THE BUTTON BELOW

Who: Hockey referee’s and officials who are interested in having fun and donating money to fight cancer.

What: 4 person scramble – Teams of four will compete for prizes and awards. May choose a partner/group to register with, or may be assigned to a group.

When: Friday August 19th , 2011 8:00 am

$75.00 Registration Fee, includes 18 holes golf, range balls, motorized cart, plus a barbecue picnic afterwards

Where: Stonebrooke Golf Club, Shakopee, MN

Why: Because we all know someone who has been affected by cancer. This tournament started seven years ago, with 6 people who played 18 holes of golf, took all of their betting money from the game, and donated a total of $350 to the American Cancer Society. In 2005, there were two Zebra Open events: (1)Northern Tournament: 4 participants, who donated a total of $240 to American Cancer Society, and (2) Twin Cities Event: 12 participants, who donated a total of $650 to Jon and Kelley Campion (Jon was a WCHA ref and Kelly had terminal cancer). In 2006, we held the event for the first time at Little Falls CC, and we had 27 participants, who raised $3100 for Jon and Kelley Campion again. Year 4 we had the tournament in Little Falls again, drawing 31 people who raised $3000 for the Zebra Foundation. This will be the fourth year it will be held at Stonebrooke Golf in Shakopee, MN, and last 3 years we raised over $1250, $1760, & $2,700 respectively.

"On Your Faces, Gentlemen"

2011-07-20T14:10:00.003-05:00

Holy Cripes...where do I begin? It's the middle of the summer and there is a lot of hockey training to be had out there to prepare yourself for next season. Here are few opportunities for those who sign up for Ultimate Officials:

1. Ultimate Officials Fall Treadmill Camp (August 2nd through Sept. 15)

Cost: $275, with a $50 discount for meeting a minimum number of sessions.

Days: Tuesday and Thursday nights at Bloomington Ice Gardens Rink 3

UO Treadmill Camp - Spring 2011 from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

2. Ultimate Officials 2-1 System Skills Camps

Next camp: August 4-7th at the Super Rink in Blaine and surrounding arenas

On Ice Referee Camps from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

3. Ultimate Officials Online 12 Week Camp - "Goal Setting"

This is an online curriculum that gives "how-to's", including insider information, in regards to setting goals and obtaining a position in a new league or championship game. This camp includes a 6-disc DVD series for those who are part of the Minnesota Development Model. (click link for more details)

Zebra Open 2011 - 8th Annual

2011-06-14T11:45:00.008-05:00

8th Annual Zebra Open –

Referee’s Take a Swing at Cancer

Benefit for the “Zebra Foundation” & NHLOA’s Zebras Care Foundation

Friday August 19^th , 2011

8:00 am (registration starts at 7:00am)

Stonebrooke Golf Club

2693 County Road 79
Shakopee, MN 55379

(www.stonebrooke.com)

Who: Hockey referee’s and officials who are interested in having fun and donating money to fight

cancer.

What: 4 person scramble – Teams of four will compete for prizes and awards. May choose a

partner/group to register with, or may be assigned to a group.

When: Friday August 18^th , 2011

8:00 am

$75.00 Registration Fee, includes 18 holes golf, range balls, motorized cart, plus a barbecue picnic afterwards

Where: Stonebrooke Golf Club, Shakopee, MN

Why: Because we all know someone who has been affected by cancer. This tournament started seven years ago, with 6 people who played 18 holes of golf, took all of their betting money from the game, and donated a total of $350 to the American Cancer Society. In 2005, there were two Zebra Open events: (1)Northern Tournament: 4 participants, who donated a total of $240 to American Cancer Society, and (2) Twin Cities Event: 12 participants, who donated a total of $650 to Jon and Kelley Campion (Jon was a WCHA ref and Kelly had terminal cancer). In 2006, we held the event for the first time at Little Falls CC, and we had 27 participants, who raised $3100 for Jon and Kelley Campion again. Year 4 we had the tournament in Little Falls again, drawing 31 people who raised $3000 for the Zebra Foundation. This will be the fourth year it will be held at Stonebrooke Golf in Shakopee, MN, and last 3 years we raised over $1250, $1760, & $2,700 respectively.

Now for some old videos I produced (please keep in mind viewer, that the dates, times, fees are all different from what is in the video -- pay attention to the text above, please):

And one more Cancer Awareness Video for good measure (Movember was another charitable fundraising venture for Ultimate Officials - over $1200 Raised!)

UO Movember Hockey Game from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

30 days of Growth for Me

UO Mo Bros in NHL Officials Locker Room with Brian Mach

Some Stuff

2011-05-17T12:39:00.002-05:00

That's Teamwork

Dan Marouelli's Hockey Officiating Insight

Good ol' Dan Marouelli hasn't been on CBC lately. That sucks. Oh well, here is Dan's final NHL game:

http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=0&id=65713

****************
"The Only Easy Day was Yesterday"

Since NHL hockey has been pretty quiet on the Tube lately, I have been watching "The Military Channel" a lot and I have been really into the "Navy SEAL's" stuff. You know...killing Bin Laden and all.

In fact, my latest newsletter for Ultimate Officials has direct tie-ins with SEALs and even some football stuff.

Click here to start getting UO newsletters: UO Online Camps (only $0.25 for 1st Month)

http://youtu.be/3DeSyl1CGIQ

*****************
The "King of Almost"

I have also been "dialed in" to "The Voice" on NBC. My latest newsletter also has a bit on perseverance and chasing your goals, with a tie-in to Tim Mahoney and "The Voice". Tim Mahoney, raised in Minnetonka, MN and Tonka H.S. Alum, (I just saw this guy perform on May 7th at a fundraiser event for my daughter's Minnetonka elementary school) was on the show last week (got eliminated). Think he is going to give up? How easy do you give up?

http://youtu.be/-KMKP18En6I

*****************
UO Online Camps: http://ultimateofficials.com/online-referee-camps.html

Summer Camp Updates

2011-05-11T16:21:00.000-05:00

UO Has Got the BOOM!

A shout out goes the following boys for the Summer of 2011:

Minnkota Camp Acceptance:

Joel Omundson

Tim Ferrel

Zach Nelson

Robert Beckl

USA Hockey Regional Camp Acceptance:

Aaron Barlow

Jake Brenk

Ryan Szymanski

USA Hcokey National Camp Acceptance:

Nick Bradshaw

Ultimate Officials Spring Treadmill Camp:

Aaron Barlow

Clayton Smith

Nick Bradshaw

Norm Gaskins

Jake Brenk

Neil Missling

Kevin Cassidy

Tim Ferrel

Paul Gallmeier

Zach Nelson

Cameron Voss

What are you doing this summer? www.UltimateOfficials.com

This summer proves to be better than the last one!

UO Summer 2010 from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

"Get to The Net," says Dan

2011-05-10T10:40:00.001-05:00

Get to the Net - See the Puck

May 9 Link: http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/1237534952/ID=1916564998

Notes:
1. Steve Kozari getting in position to make a crucial goal call. Props!

2. OUCH - Dan goes after Walkom one more time, in regards to embellishment.

Diving - NOT in Hockey, Boys!

Marouelli talks Caricllo and then Diving

2011-05-09T16:51:00.000-05:00

That's water, not ice!

May 6 Link: http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/Hockey_Night_Online/1350044207/ID=1912839308

Notes:
1. Everybody's favorite, Daniel Carcillo, out there cross checking guys in the back.

2. Zdeno Chara does some "playground justice", and Brian Murphy #93, US Linesman, puts his muscle into Chara.

3. Dan goes to task on my boy, Stephen Walkom, for letting Scott Hartnell go without a penalty.

4. Grapes has some words about "garbage" and "Oh Yeah!":
http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC's_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/Coach's_Corner/1239402029/ID=1911222930

May 7 Embellishment Link:
http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/Hockey_Night_Online/1350044207/ID=1913854704

Notes:
1. No diving in hockey boys.

2. Which came first?: The hook or the "chicken wing".

3. Tunnel vision and sight lines. You gotta "work the puck".

From the IIHF Worlds

2011-05-09T16:35:00.001-05:00

Just posting these videos because: (A) they show the "one-man wrecking crew of Evgeny Artyukhin, and (B) the game was refereed by Minnesota boy, Tom Sterns (he even has his name pronounced in Slovakian - "Toh-mass Sterns".

Good ol' Evgeny wasn't done after that previous series either! Like I said, "one-man wrecking crew":

(Sternsie gives the signal "hit him with the shoulder"). Arty got 4 PIMs in game for Interference:

CTE for Linesmen?

2011-05-07T08:51:00.000-05:00

Tough Day at the Office?

Stick tap goes out to Adam Shadiow for sharing this (www.twitter.com/shadiow).

"#75 Derek Amell takes a wicked bad digger after Setoguchi slew foots Bertuzzi right under his legs. Amell absolutely gets destroyed. Bounces his head off the ice, then gets up like its nothing."

Whats' CTE?: Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy at Boston University School of Medicine studies Chrinice Traumatic Encephalopathy:

Watch this video on YouTube

Ever bounce your melon off the ice? Maybe got concussed? Not to be a downer, but more and more stuff has been coming out on how taken many shots to the head causes Alzheimer's type symptoms in ex-athletes.

All I know is that the situation NHL Linesman, Derek Amell, was caught up in has been a spot that most, if not all, hockey officials have been caught in, including me. You brace yourself...you say a quick "Hail Mary"...and hope for the best.

Overall: ouch! (even if you don't admit it publicly).

Foot note: Dave Duerson's Suicide may have been a result of CTE

Link: http://www.bu.edu/cste/2011/05/03/nfl-player-dave-duerson-suffered-from-advanced-cte/

Dan talks Choppping Wood (Composite)

2011-05-06T18:13:00.000-05:00

Marouelli talks about Chopping an Opponent

May 5 Link: http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/Hockey_Night_Online/1350044207/ID=1911369847

Notes:
1. The "10 second Rule" (errr...the 8 second rule) at the end of periods. The saying goes, "Great linesmen can make a referee better. No matter how good a referee is, he can NOT make the linesmen better." See this in principle in the first part of the interview.

2. It's the Action of the Slash - The guy "chokes" up to make the slash. That's the action that is penalized. Stick presses, taps, chops are not (usually) where there is no "cocking" of the stick.

Kudos to the team!

Walkom Mic'd Up for Game 4

2011-05-05T15:03:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite NHL refs

Stephen Walkom gets mic'd up for Game 4 of Washington vs. Tampa Bay. Great communication sound bites in there for officials to learn and use:
http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=40&id=113237

Stick tap to Chris Fair for sharing this one.

HNIC: Marouelli Gives Props!

2011-05-05T10:52:00.000-05:00

Dan Marouelli - 25 Year NHL Referee Interview

May 4 Link: http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/1237534952/ID=1909513323

Notes:

A. "Sight Lines" - they analyze the big hit that Niklas Kronwall put on Danny Heatley. It's all about position and angles, Boys!

Here Comes the "Boom"!

2. Dan talks about "Hockey Skills" - Sounds kind of familiar (see here).

3. Super "props" goes out to the boys in stripes. Great night of hockey (unless you are a Washington Capitals fan...oof!)

What People Are Saying

2011-05-05T10:28:00.003-05:00

That's the best Commandeered Picture I could Find

I just "commandeered" these posts from Facebook. It's a testimonial for the "Ultimate Officials Online Referee Camps" [click here] as well as our "Hockey Skills Camps" [click here].

DZ: U.O. - How's it going? How was instructor camp?? I hear you "brought it" Nice Job!!

CF: Hey DZ... camp was awesome.. lots of fun! J.B. is a fantastic ice instructor!

DZ: Indeed he is....exudes "teaching" and great personality as well.

**************

TF: Treadmill training day 1 complete. I need to get in shape quick...

JH: Its okay TF, round is a shape; just not the best one for officials! I'm looking forward to the second round of Etrain.

AM: What's the occasion? Going to minnkota?

TF: AM-Yes going to Minnkota, and also just want to get better.

TF: Im not round haha, just not fit. This is my first time doing it and last night was intense!!

JH: That is why I am getting fit for the later sessions.

TF: I figured it would be good for the summer and for camp

JH: You'll be a rockstar at camp after the treadmill!

http://vimeo.com/15246014

Fall Off Ice Camp 2010 from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

http://vimeo.com/14619903

UO Summer 2010 from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

Maybe this one is more appropriate? (LOL)

More Dan Marouelli

2011-05-04T14:05:00.001-05:00

Dan Goes for a Run with the Boys

May 3 Link: http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/1237534952/ID=1908452300

Notes:

Penalty Shot Criterea:

1. Infraction occurs past attacker's own blue line.

2. Possession and control of the puck/no opponent to pass other than the goalie

3. Foul committed from behind.

4. Denied a reasonable scoring opportunity.

Ovechkin complains...

Ref calls a hook, no penalty shot

Dan says, "Yes" it should have been a penalty shot.

I say, "Ooof...I am all in favor of calling penalty shots, but I agree with the on ice call."

Comments?

Side note: One of my mentors called a hook on a semi-break, and the coach went off on him, because he wanted a penalty shot. My mentor told him, "If you can explain the four criteria for a penalty shot, I will call it. Otherwise, if you want to keep complaining, I will call a bench minor on you!"

Loved it!

Just Because I Love These Guys

2011-05-04T12:20:00.005-05:00

Time for some senseless humor and a game of H-O-R-S-E:
http://youtu.be/cfP56XlcVYg

The Best Sports Pick Up Lines:
http://youtu.be/TDHF41XU1Iw

Dan Marourelli Interviews (lots of them)

2011-05-03T11:28:00.001-05:00

Dan Marouelli - 25 Years NHL Referee

Attention Hockey Referees out there: Dan Marouelli, former great NHL Referee, has been doing interviews on CBC's Hockey Night in Canada. The guy gives great insight to thoughts on officiating in the playoffs.

I am a bit behind here, but I will post the interviews and thoughts for the Stanley Cup playoffs from Marouelli from here on out through the finals.

Here are a series of links and my notes (p.s. I highly encourage you to watch them all, but if you do, you will be sick of seeing the Chevy ads before each and every one :)

*********************************************************************************
May 1 link: http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/1237534952/ID=1905451581

Notes:
Communication note: Refs who don't talk to the bench, in this case about "snowing goaltenders", you've got to have a discussion with the bench. Great commentary.

Sticks and gloves: Refs have got to be "zoned in" on the sticks and gloves of the players.

*********************************************************************************

April 30 link:
http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/Hockey/1249236098/ID=1904706196

Notes:
Color Check: This is a term I use to make sure you are watching ANYWHERE on the ice where there are opposite colored jersey's together (in this case, Orange and White). It is "forced awareness" to see subtle slashes and other infractions.
*********************************************************************************

April 28 link:
http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/1237534952/ID=1902456661

Notes:
Keith Ballard "clipping": I reffed this guy starting when he was a Squirt. Great player, who just goes too low on a hit.

Playoff Round Selections: A bit of description (including a list of referees for the 2nd Round) on selections for each round.
*********************************************************************************

April 26 link:
http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/Hockey_Night_Online/1350044207/ID=1899366578

Notes:
"At Net Skills": Dan talks about quick whistles and the necessity of driving to the net. This one is a tough one to swallow for the ref. Do you hang back or drive the net? "At the end of the day, you gotta go where the puck is."

Hit to the head (Lucic on Spacek): Notice the talk about positioning (see my video: Work the Puck)
*********************************************************************************

April 23 link:
http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/Hockey_Night_Online/1350044207/ID=1895494016

Notes:
Goal Line Positioning: Brad Meier is "Johnny on the Spot" (even got complimented by Don Cherry!)
*********************************************************************************

April 21 link:
http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/Top_Stories/1237510081/ID=1893383544

Notes:
PLAYOFF HOCKEY STANDARD: This is a great discussion (with video example) on how to properly call a playoff game. GREAT DISCUSSION.
*********************************************************************************

April 20 link:
http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/Hockey/1249236098/ID=1891881376

Notes:
Goaltender Interference/Accidental Interference: Positioning on the play, watching the players take advantage of a shove to take out/interfere with the goalie. ANOTHER GREAT DISCUSSION.

The Ref Didn't Throw the Elbow: This continues to be a great interview, talking about the Mike Richards elbow, called by Francis St. Laurent.
*********************************************************************************

April 16 link:
http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/Sports/CBC%27s_Hockey_Night_in_Canada/Hockey_Night_Online/1350044207/ID=1885605314

Notes:
Communication Between Ref and Players: Dan talks about talking to players, and why/when to talk to the players. Clips showing Brad Meier, Paul Devorski, and Steve Kozari.
*********************************************************************************

It's a Great Day for Hockey (and the USA and the World)

2011-05-03T09:26:00.006-05:00

BIN LADEN IS DEAD

A video and an audio clip that are so appropriate for this moment in history:

An audio clip from the "Common Man Progrum" on KFAN in Minneapolis/St. Paul:

It is an opening song of "Lovely Day" sprinkled with sound bites from sports/movie quotes, including some lyrics from Dan "the Common Man" Cole:

"Bin Laden's Dead...Bin Laden's Dead...shot him in the head...he's pumped full of lead...permanently put to bed...Now he has: NO MORE STREET CRED!"

(just listen to the first 4:30)
http://www.kfan.com/cc-common/podcast/single_page.html?podcast=KFAN_Common&selected_podcast=COMMON_5-2-11_HR1.mp3

p.s. I love listening to the Common Man show.

********
HOW 9/11 REALLY HIT HOME FOR ME
I have posted a number of times about this, and I will repeat everything here:

Personal side note: In August 2001, I went to Lake Placid, NY to attend the Elite Officiating Experience. This was the week that Team USA picks their World Jr. Team, and I was working the games that week. Well, it was one of the first night's, and I had it off, so I was watching USA play Finland (other side note -- Mikko Koivu was Finland's captain), and while I was watching the game I had the pleasure of sitting next to Mark Bavis.

Mark was the amateur scout for the L.A. Kings. I had met Mark a few years earlier in St. Cloud at the National Select 15 Festival. Brian Thul and I shared a couple of beers at D.B. Searle's, downtown St. Cloud after a game. He was coaching the Massachusetts team at the Select 15 Festival. I had also seen him on the bench with Boston University at a tournament in Duluth, when they were playing University of Minnesota-Duluth.

Mark and I chatted during the whole game at the Elite Experience in Lake Placid, NY. He was there to see David Steckel, who was a King draftee, whom Mark had scouted.

One month later Mark died in 9/11. Now that REALLY hit home for me, knowing that I knew someone personally on one of those planes. Gulp.

Hey Ref

2011-04-25T11:01:00.000-05:00

Like or dislike?: info@ultimateofficials.com

For more insight and advice, join UO: www.UOspecialoffer.com

You Make the Call

2011-04-25T10:10:00.002-05:00

That's You, Standing There, Thinking about the Call

Game 6 - PHI at BUF - Mike Richards hit on Tim Connolly:

The call on the Play: Minor for Boarding

The call you make in a split-second decision: ?????

Does time of the game (13:57 in 2nd Period), type of player (Captain, Mike Richards) and game (Game 6, going to a Game 7) make a difference???

Ryan Miller, goalie for the Sabres, had this to say: "If Mike Richards thinks we're getting away with murder I don't know what he just got away with. Mass murder? Are we stepping up a notch? Unbelievable."

Game 7 is Tuesday April 26, 2011 at 6:30 pm (CST) on Versus.

*******************

Does the type of player make a difference in this hit?:

The call on the Play: Minor for Interference

The call you make in a split-second decision: ????

Does the type of player (bad boy, Jarkko Ruutu) make a difference in suspension? Ruutu is suspended one game.

Talk amongst yourselves...

Hey Ref

2011-04-24T10:25:00.009-05:00

Playoff Hockey

Like or dislike?: info@ultimateofficials.com

To get more insight and advice on hockey officiating: www.UOspecialoffer.com

Holy Close Play, Batman

2011-04-22T10:26:00.002-05:00

"Make sure you are on the blue line, Robin."

Close play at the line on the rush that led to the O.T. winner for the Bruins over the Canadiens. Yes, it is on-side and it is a PERFECT EXAMPLE of how line calls can be deceiving when viewed for the stands, the benches, on TV, or anywhere that isn't on the line, looking at the determining edge of the blue line.

I LOVE IT! (Plus, on a personal note, I love that the Bruins won, because I got them winning the Stanley Cup in my Ultimate Officials NHL Pick Em Contest...whew! All things tied a two games apiece now.)

A Few Playoff Notes

2011-04-21T17:27:00.000-05:00

Too many men?

Some interesting notes:

Chris Rooney, NHL ref from Massachusetts, and guy who was reffing in the USHL when I first started lining in the USHL, broke his ankle in a game. Suck wad!

There have been three suspensions in the playoffs so far:

Chris Kunitz: http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=35&id=109543

Steve Downie: http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=35&id=109558

Bobby Ryan: http://youtu.be/r7MEmL6EqOs

and NOT Raffi Torres: http://youtu.be/JeZDE9H3_vU

AND...

Poor Marian Gaborik: http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=0&id=110118

What is a "Dirty" Hit These Days?

2011-04-20T17:26:00.004-05:00

"What's the Buzz All About?"

Head contact...

Concussions...

Targeting the head...

Hitting from Behind...

Charging?....

All buzz words these days in hockey circles. I can't turn on Versus, the VS "Overtime" Show, NHL "On the Fly", nor NHL Radio on XM/Sirius without hearing them talk on and on and on about the aforementioned buzz words.

Before we even get on and on and on about the buzz, I have a video and a link for you and a recent NHL playoff article for you:

Zebra TV - Episode 3 from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.
Link referenced in the above video: http://youtu.be/m55RtBUyKcA

RECENT BOURNE ARTICLE LINK: http://www.hockeyprimetime.com/news/columns/when-clean-hits-look-dirty
(psst...I love the writing of Justin Bourne, former NCAA - Alaska-Anchorage - and Minor Pro Player)

RECENT NHL PLAYOFF STUFF:

*******************
A few things I would like to say, as an ex-player first, and then, as a hockey referee second:

1. I played to hurt guys. Not injure them, but hurt them. What's the difference? The difference is (a) making a guy think twice about tangling in the corner with me again, and (b) I want that guy to feel the "sting" NOT (I repeat *NOT*) to put him in the hospital.

Hockey is a great sport because it can be beautiful, artistic, and at the same time BARBARIC. Me...I liked the BARBARIC side of the sport as much as any.

2. I think a lot of the increase in injuries is because we don't call CHARGING enough.

There are a number of reasons we don't call charging enough...like, does the guy go 100 mph and then set his feet prior to the hit, thus, negating the "taking two or more strides thing?

How about the fact that most times a ref calls charging everybody in the building screams "INJUSTICE!"?(well...half of the people involved).

How about the fact that players are stronger, bigger, and a whole lot faster than before, and no one seems to like the notion of cutting down on speed? Let's face it, there are some big dudes out there moving full tilt.

How about the fact that some of these things happen because everyone is moving full tilt and it is really hard to make an adjustment when we are taking "miliseconds". All guys have on their mind is "finish the hit". All guys are coached to do is to "finish the hit". When you have that demand running through your brain, and the guy you are checking suddenly turns or ducks...well...it's damn hard to stop your momentum.

*********************
What's the answer? I don't have one. I just know that some of the things I have mentioned here are facts that are tough to disprove. Real tough.

(note: hitting from behind is not tough...it is gutless, but look at the Johan Franzen video in the "Bourne Article" and tell me whether Shane Doan was being gutless or not. I say "not" because...well...he was moving FAST!)

Why I love the Stanley Cup Playoffs

2011-04-13T11:15:00.002-05:00

Gotta love Ray Bourque

The 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs begin today, and as a referee, I am excited as can be (I might be a little bit more pumped if the MN Wild were in, because (a) the Minneapolis Star Tribune would pay A LOT more attention to the great hockey action, and (b) there would be a lot more refs in this area excited, like I am excited).

Why I am pumped for each year of the Playoffs:

* As a T.V. viewer, I get to watch the best and the brightest work a game, under the most pressure, with the most intensity, that our hockey world would ever get to see.

Here's a link to who's working: http://nhlofficials.com/display_news.asp?articleID=531

(20 referees and 20 linesmen)

A shout out to the USA guys:

REFS - Dennis Larue, Brian Pochmara, Chris Rooney, Ian Walsh

LINES - Brian Murphy, Tim Nowak, Tony Sericolo

* The playoffs tend to "highlight" or put a "spotlight" on rule changes and drive philosophy for the upcoming season (see: headshots, too many men penalties, standard on obstruction, video replay, etc).

* Learning vicariously through others - a couple of years ago I asked a group of trainees in the Ultimate Officials Program to do some "homework" on the game officials and tell me what you learned.

The reported findings included things like:

"I watched how the referees communicated with the players and the coaches"*

"I was amazed how good these guys are at getting out of the way of traffic, yet being able to stay in position"*

"The linesmen are just FLYING to the net on stoppages."

"I am amazed at how on top of the net the refs are on close calls."*

* This year, the Ultimate Officials Program has a "Pick em Challenge". This is a friendly betting game that is done between hockey referees to foster a new sense of interest in the games. We are putting "Bragging Rights" on the line to see who can predict the winners and be crowned the next Karnac.*

Did You Know that the Best Referees can be like "Karnac"?

(Note: I picked Boston over Vancouver to win the cup)

* With there being plenty of hockey action to blog about, I going all in with my commentary. You can check for regular blog updates, including video examples (which have proven to help train and develop referees through my Ultimate Officials Programs. Yes, there is proof.), and I will be tweeting all about the action as well.

I have been sporadic with posts on this site since the first of the year (really since we had our Movember initiative and raised over $2000 for the NHLOA's Zebra Cares Charity). I am back and I want you back, too.

My promise: educate, first and foremost, and to entertain.

Check out my twitter acount: Follow me here

___________________________________________________________________

* = As of this writing, I will be either running or involved in ELEVEN referee camps this off season. The off season is the time to really develop for the next year. A lot of guys don't quite get that, because once you are in a season you are really "set" wherever you are in the "pecking order" because of what you did previously. There ain't a lot of upward mobility during the season. The hockey season is NOT the time to develop...the off season is the time to develop.

I am running 9 different off season camps, focusing on either Treadmill Training or "The 2-1 System Hockey Skills Camps".

Treadmill training = the best way to improve skating and break old habits.

"2-1 System Hockey Skills Camps" = the best way to improve "skills" (not necessarily perfect the 2-1 system) and get quality reps on ice to prepare for the next winter season.

Ask me about the seven different "Skills Camps" I am running this Spring/Summer/Fall for hockey officials in the Twin Cities, MN area - info@ultimateofficials.com

Frozen Four Semifinal Chat - 4.7.11 at 7:30 pm

2011-04-07T18:45:00.000-05:00

<p>&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php/option=com_mobile/task=viewaltcast/altcast_code=0609861824" &amp;amp;gt;UO&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;</p>

Master's Weekend -- Dave Pelz of Power Skating

2011-04-07T14:36:00.000-05:00

2011 Spring Treadmill Camp

2011-03-21T11:01:00.003-05:00

WHO: Any UO member who lives within a reasonable distance of Bloomington Ice Gardens Rink #3

WHAT: 7 Week Treadmill Camp - Become Stronger, Faster, Sleeker, Thinner, and Happier

WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays - May 3 through June 16, 2011 - Times will vary from

WHERE: Bloomington Gardens Rink #3 - eTrain Hockey Facility

WHY: Boom, that's why.

HOW: Same pricing program as last year - $275 for the 7 wk program. Any returnee that attends 10 sessions will receive the $50 discount.

Remember, the 7 wk program is actually 6 wk program, but we added 2 extra sessions understanding that people may miss one or two. For those diehards, they get an extra 2 sessions. Make sense?

Let me know interest ASAP - email: info@ultimateofficials.com

Ultimate Officials' Boys Busting it on the Treadmill

AA Championship Game 3.12.11

2011-03-12T19:12:00.001-06:00

3.11.11 MN State Tourney Semifinal

2011-03-11T19:18:00.000-06:00

AA Quarterfinal 3.10.10

2011-03-10T20:48:00.002-06:00

Playoff Time

2011-02-28T15:48:00.001-06:00

see more testimonials here: UO Testimonials

Current UO Referee Campers Working Playoffs (i.e. Bigger and Better Games) to date*:

Dave Zulla - Mercer County Tournament Final (NJ) - NJ State Varsity Championship

Kevin Cassidy - MN Boys H.S. Sectionals

Robert Beckl - MN District 5 Bantam A Championship

Nick Biondich - MN Boys H.S. Sectionals - NCHA Women's Div III Playoffs

Adam Shadiow - MN Boys H.S. Sectionals

Joel Omundson - MN Girls H.S. Sectionals - NCHA Women's Div III Playoffs

Joe Oberg - MN Boys H.S. Sectionals - MN District 6 Bantam B1 Championship

Mike Trumble - MN Boys H.S. Sectionals - MN District 6 Bantam B1 Championship - Bantam A Championship

Darren Glur - MN Girls H.S. Sectionals - MN District 5 Bantam A Championship

Ross Callahan - MN District 6 Bantam B1 Semifinals

Joe Millette - MN Boys H.S. Sectionals

Eric Arndt - MN Girls H.S. Sectionals

Mike Diebold - MN Boys H.S. Sectionals

Nick Bradshaw - MN Boys H.S. Sectionals

Cory Effertz - MN Girls H.S. Sectionals

Neil Missling - MN Girls and Boys H.S. Sectionals

Tim Ferrel - MN District 3 Bantam A Championship

Clayton Smith - MN District 3 Bantam B1 Championship

Jamie Halverson - MN Girls H.S. State Tournament

Norm Gaskins - MN Girls H.S. State Tournament

Shane Paskey - MN Girls H.S. State Tournament

Cody Majerus - ND Boys H.S. State Tournament

* to date = does not include those going to MN Hockey Youth State Tournaments, Junior Hockey playoffs, and USAH Nationals, etc.

******************

Text message from Dave Zulla:

"You have no idea how it feels to be motivated by this group. The mental focus and the physical push on every shift feels amazing!"

Gone Tweeting

2011-02-24T05:20:00.000-06:00

Where's the steady stream of content? C'mon man...

C'mon man, I came here looking for content. Where's the steady stream of content?

I't Playoff Time

The steady stream of content is coming via my BlackBerry from the whole host of playoff action I will be watching. The steady stream will be coming from my Twitter account.

Follow me on Twitter: jonlybonly

* comments on hockey referee specific situations

* comments on mental toughness aspects of hockey refereeing in the playoffs

* comments on penalty selection and judgment

* NO COMMENTS on scores, updates, etc...it's all about hockey officiating.

C'MON MAN...follow my Twitter feed.

One Month Since Last Post?

2011-02-03T15:59:00.000-06:00

Where ya been, J.B.??

One month with no posts? What gives? Am I lost in an ice fishing shack on some frozen lake in Minnesota?

Nope. The sign should read, "Gone to Watch UO Members Skate".

Or it could read, "Been Doing Lots of Internet Teaching & Strategies for Member's Only"

Couldn't Resist. Such a "sweet" jacket...

Interested in more information that is referee-specific? [Go here] or you can [Go here].

In the meantime, enjoy these beauties:

Live Blogging - WJC Semifinals - CAN v USA

2011-01-03T14:02:00.002-06:00

Live Blogging - WJC USA v FIN

2010-12-26T19:08:00.001-06:00

Oops! I accidentally erased the chat. Me and the boys had some fun! Catch us next time!

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php/option=com_mobile/task=viewaltcast/altcast_code=cbd90c3490" &amp;amp;gt;WJC - ref chat&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

On the last day of Movember...

2010-11-30T14:20:00.004-06:00

Day 30 and No More (Dec.1 it will be gone!)

This is a short tribute, thank you, end-of-month reflection on what was Movember.

Tribute: This is to all those who are in the hockey community and beyond, who have been affected by cancer. We donate our faces to you!

Thanks: This is to all those "Mo Bro's" who did actually donate their face (we had some fun, but I think the consensus is that we are ready to ditch the 'stache). Check out www.UO-MoBro.com to see this list of all the great people who joined our team.

End-of-month Reflection: As of this writing, we have earned nearly $1200 in one month, which goes through my Zebra Foundation charity and on to the NHLOA's Zebras Care. Check out this blog for updates on the fabulous things that the NHLOA will do with the money. Good, heart-warming stuff.

Monthly highlights included:

the "Movember for Moensie" pick up hockey game

UO Movember Hockey Game from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

the MN Wild "Guinness Book of World Records" Most Mustachioed Men in one Photo

Photo courtesy of Bruce Kluckhohn

The "barbs", the "jabs", the sneers at the mustaches we all grew.

Me and the Kids Getting Our "Mo" On

Check out the UO Members Page for some pics: [click link here]

The new association we have with the NHLOA's Zebras Care Charity

The UO Mo Bros in the NHL Ref Locker Room

Lastly, the fun and enjoyment you can have bonding with a group of guys devoted to making the game of hockey the best it can be...ON and OFF the ice!

For more good laughs, check out the 10 Best Staches in the NHL: [click link here]

Movember Fundraising Stats

2010-11-25T07:04:00.012-06:00

To Donate online, click on the "Donate" Button Below (at bottom of post, before Pat Burns' Videos):

Or you can send a check/money order, payable to: Zebra Foundation

Zebra Foundation

3416 Jidana Lane

Minnetonka, MN 55345

Check out our UO Movember Hockey Game: [link here]
We made ESPN with John Buccigross!: [UO on ESPN]

Current Donation Total: $1070.00 (donations plus $125.30 in UO fees donated) EQUALS $1,195.30

For more info: [click here]

All Movember Proceeds go to: NHLOA's Zebras Care Charity

Current NHL news for Movember:

UO will be at that Movember 26th Wild Game!

All these hockey teams participating...why not you? (click donate below):
Tampa Bay Lightning: Check Out Ryan Malone's Sweet Stache
Philadelphia Flyers: Flyers using the 'stache to rally?
Minnesota Wild: Wild Mo Bros led by Nick Shulz
Anaheim Ducks: George Parros - the King of All Staches
Washington Capitals: Everybody Seems to Love John Erskine's Moosty
Calgary Flames: The Flames and the Hitmen Do Their Part
Edmonton Oilers: Theo Peckham Claims Constant 5 o'clock Shadow
Atlanta Thrashers: Even the Mascot has a Moosty
Dallas Stars: "It's not going to be pretty," Stephane Robidas
Vancouver Canucks: Sporting the Mo
NHL "Leader Board" on Movember site: http://us.movember.com/mospace/network/nhl
Check out some NHL Refs with the Mo Stache: Watch Video to See 3 of 4 Refs with Moosty's
University of North Dakota Hockey - WCHA: Only WCHA team to Actively Participate
Green Bay Gamblers - USHL:Even Coach, Eric Rud, has the Duster Going
Brown University Hockey- The ECAC Leader in the Mo Bro Movement
Alaska Aces -ECHL: Alaska Aces Sporting the Dusters
University of Alaska-Fairbanks - CCHA: Nanooks Lead the Way in the CCHA for Staches
Plymouth State University - ECAC DII: The only NCAA DIII Team I Could Find
Vancouver Giants - WHL: Major Jr. Hockey Team - Grandfather of Player Pass Away from Cancer
Texas Stars - AHL: AHL Team Doing Their Part
Clarkson Knights - ECAC: Another ECAC team, Clarkson, Sports the Mo
Another Hockey Referee Group: 82 Western Canada Hockey Refs from "MOfficials"
Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees - CHL: CHL Team Joins the Fight
Hershey Bears - AHL: Bears Goalie Mo Leader in AHL

There's Even Mascots Going "Mo" : Goldie and Nordy Video

J.B. Olson & His Moosty at U17 Four Nations Cup (11/13/10)

Current Mo-Bros (fully registered - 32 and counting):

Dana Penkivech
Scott Dowson
Clayton Smith
Kevin Cassidy
Darren Glur
Justin Hedlund
Steve Miorana
Greg Swiler
Cory Oesterich
Eric Arndt
Robert Beckl
Jamie Halverson
Mike Diebold
Ross Callahan
Buzz Olson
Mike Trumble
Skip Trumble
Neil Missling
Jason Olson
Cory Effertz
Nick Bradshaw
Norm Gaskins
Cameron Voss
Northwest Hockey Officials Association (MN Section 8 Hockey)
Joe Oberg
James Frey
Rick Looker
Joe Millette
Patrick Roff
Ken Thielman
Kevin Curtis
Clarice Dahlke (my aunt-in-law & first Mo Sista!)
Phyllis Meyere (mom-in-law - another Mo Sista)
Bill Maurer
Adam Shadiow

Dave Zulla
J.B. Olson

To Register, fill in the form below:

To Donate online, click on the "Donate" Button Below:

Or you can send a check/money order, payable to: Zebra Foundation

Zebra Foundation

3416 Jidana Lane

Minnetonka, MN 55345

Why donate to our Movember cause? Because cancer affects us all...

November 20, 2010:

Zebra TV - Episode 4 - Fisticuffs

2010-11-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

Zebra TV - Episode 4 from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

www.UOSpecialOffer.com

Movember Charity Hockey Game

2010-11-17T01:09:00.001-06:00

Playing for a Good Cause (and FUN!)

On November 15, 2010, a group of hockey refs played their monthly pick up hockey game, but this time they donated money for the Ultimate Officials' Movember cause. The game was played in honor of Paul Moen, who is a long time hockey referee and coach in South St. Paul, MN. Paul is a recent cancer survivor.

UO Movember Hockey Game from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

Team White won the game 16-11 over Team Black. The game, as always, was a BLAST!

Is that Cal Clutterbuck?

Co-Conn Smythe Winners = Matt Hazuka and Ross Gibbs

Team White                                     Team Black

Matt Hazuka                                    Eric Arndt
Brian Thul                                        Jamie Halverson
Mike Diebold                                     Rick Nelson
Jason Olson                                     Mike Trumble
Shane Paskey                                  Joe Oberg
Ross Gibbs                                      Andy Priley
Nick Bradshaw                                Chris Szczeck
Dustin Martin                                   Clayton Smith
Nick Dornfeld                                  Aaron the Goalie
Kevin Cassidy                                  J.B. Olson (IR)
Skip Trumble (IR)


(l-r): Paskey, Dornfeld, Cassidy, Olson, Thul


(l-r): Gibbs, Hazuka, Martin, Arndt, Oberg, Trumble, Bradshaw, Szczeck

(l-r): Smith, Halverson, Priley, Diebold, Aaron, Nelson

I Actually Did LOL on These Gems

2010-11-08T00:43:00.002-06:00

Warning: Lots of "F-Bombs" thrown around in these two clips.

#1 Brian Burke "telling it like it is":

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Zh1szSHbyM&feature=player_embedded

#2 Dany Heatley "The Real World meets NHL Cribs":

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTaKhw8g7Bc&feature=player_embedded

This is Pure Poetry

2010-11-06T23:33:00.001-05:00

If this doesn't get you emotional, I give up on you...

As a young boy in 1981, I remember Dino as a rookie for the North Stars run to the Stanley Cup...this is another good video on passion: [HOF Weekend Interview]

Confessions of a Head Hunter

2010-11-06T16:52:00.000-05:00

NOTE: My senior year of high school, I got 1 minor penalty all season = 2 PIM's

Zebra TV - Episode 3 from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

Joe Thornton got 2 game suspension for this hit:

Fashion Industry, Homosexuality, and Intestinal Fortitude

2010-11-04T00:13:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago, the latest SWAT (Secret Weapons & Tactics) Newsletter went out to all Ultimate Officials members (even those who take advantage of the [special offer]).

This video accompanies the newsletter:

You're Not Trying, You're Whining from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

This guy was featured in the newsletter, too:

Gareth Thomas

And there was a whole lot of discussion, advice, insider tips, and training for hockey referees. As an educator, I find examples of inspiration/motivation all over the place. I share all of these bits of training in the monthly newsletters, articles, and videos with UO members. There was a lot of talk about the first step towards championship referee success.

I encourage you join our group. It's only $0.99 to join. You may be wondering, "if this is so damn good, why so cheap?" Join and find out. You may be wondering, "if it's so damn good, what's in it for me?" Here's what's in it for you:

Better Wheels, Better Words, Better Vision, and BIGGER BALLS. You get BIGGER games.

Go to this link [click here].

Zebra TV - Episode 2

2010-11-03T20:33:00.000-05:00

Zebra TV - Episode 2 from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

Zebra TV - Episode 1

2010-10-27T12:11:00.001-05:00

Zebra TV - Episode 1 from J.B. Olson on Vimeo.

[Movember link]

Ryan Miller - Questions Will Become Answers

2010-10-25T22:20:00.001-05:00

You know me (and if you totally don't yet), you know that I am a sucka (said in a somewhat high-pitched voice) for stuff like this:

Join the Fight - Join the Group

2010-10-24T17:44:00.002-05:00

Don't wanna get "preachy" here, but the Zebra Foundation (started in 2007 to support cancer related causes) and the new Movember initiative (see the link) is all about the following (not necessarily in this order):

Joining a cause that all of hockey is supporting

Joining a group that is all about brotherhood and camaraderie (www.uospecialorder.com)

Making yourself better as a ref, a spouse, a quality person, etc.

Making the hockey community better.

Watch the NHLOA "Zebra Cares" video (with Mike Leggo, Pierre Racicot, AND Ian Walsh and Jay Sharrers...two of my faves!):

Join UO for Movember

2010-10-22T09:53:00.004-05:00

What's Movember? Movember (the month formerly known as November) is a moustache-growing charity event held during November each year that raises funds and awareness for men's health.

UO want you to join the fight: [Go to Registration and Donation Page HERE]

The hockey community, from the NHL all the way down to peewee hockey, has always been very supportive of cancer awareness and fundraising. It's time for the "Zebras" to get in on the fight, too.

Some NHL examples:


Rick Dipietro's Pink Pads for Oct Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The Zebra Foundation supports the NHL Officials Association - Zebras Care Charity


Josh Harding Cancer Awareness Helmet


The Great One and Staff with Cancer Awareness ties


NHLOA Hustle for a Cure

Join the Fight - [Go to this link to Register & Donate]

Or you can just donate right now (and grow your 'stache in November):

Maybe you could look like these guys:

Bill McCreary

Don Van Massenhoven


Rob Schick

UOPU Hockey Game - Were You There?

2010-10-21T13:07:00.007-05:00

Mario beats the North Stars like a rented mule...

Good times last night at Velocity Hockey Center in Eden Prairie, MN!

Final score was 18-17 in a see-saw battle. Dark team won (I even think history was made).

Game was a blast! Maybe a bit too competitive? (nah...). However, there is talk of bringing in a referee to ref these games (too much obstruction creeping into our game -- gotta open up the ice more). Nah...we are the keepers of the integrity of the game.

Conn Smythe UOPU October Version = game puck goes to the entire team

Dark Team White Team
Dana Penkivech Tony Lancette
Clayton Smith Joe Oberg
Steve Szczeck Nick Bradshaw
Ross Gibbs Brian Thul
Jamie Halverson Dan Kovarik
Andy Priley Brian Mach
Norm Gaskins Shane Paskey
Brad Albers Mike Trumble
Mike Diebold J.B. Olson
Aaron (G) Kevin Cassidy (G)

Goddam, I love this game! Next Game = Mon Nov 15 at 9:20 p.m.

33 Miners are Rescued - Who's in Your Foxhole?

2010-10-20T05:35:00.001-05:00

33 miners. 69 days. One thought = survival.

In case you've been stuck under a rock, been on vacation in the Northwoods elk hunting with absolutely no TV, no newspapers, or internet, there was an uplifting story of 33 Chilean miners trapped and 33 miners rescued, after 69 days stuck in a mine (you don't need to know every detail about this story, I certainly don't -- all you need to know that there were 33 guys...69 days...and one collective mind-set.)

Scene from the rescue.

This story does remind me of the movie, "Alive (youtube trailer)". 45 rugby players from Uruguay flew over the Andes mountains to Chile, crashed in the mountains, and 16 of them survived after 72 days. So...they are stuck on a mountain, no sight of rescue, no food, and faced (forced) with the idea of eating the dead to survive.

You ever watch that movie?

I first saw "Alive" in 1993, and I was completely floored. I also remember reading the book version in circa 1995 ( I actually read all 416 pages, cover to cover, in 3 days! I liked it that much). Whether it be the book or the movie about the "Miracle in the Andes," or today's Chilean "miracle" story, I just know this:

THOSE GUYS WERE TOUGH SONSOFABITCHES
(especially Nando Parrado, Ethan Hawke's character, I read that book, too = Miracle in the Andes)

It's tough to be tough nowadays. Why? Because you've got so many goddam softies out there to persuade you not to be tough:

-- everyone wants a "hand out" these days (Big business, Big Banks, Big Auto manufacturers)

-- everyone keeps telling me it's the 'entitlement society' that's graduating from our schools

-- we tend to live in a sports society were everybody wants a friggin' trophy just for playing

-- And, most embarassingly to me, there's a lot of hockey referees with their hands out, showing up to get paid for doing little (some of them should wear a ski mask...they're robbing the place), and wanting more. These are the guys we have to deal with...these are the guys that members of UO have to deal with. It's tough staying above the fray.

A ref at your local hockey rink? Maybe.

Well, I want to celebrate the hockey ref who's friggin' tough, and since it's October, we'll continue with our "no fear" mantra:

"How did I do ,, simple I did everything I said I was going to do , there where times that I missed but I tried to make it up as best as I could. After the 3rd week of the program I felt it was time to step it up so I introduced P90X into the mix and never looked back. I am about to finish my first round in a couple of weights and I feel Great I love what I have accomplished in a short period of time. I look forward to continued results over the next round that I do. I notice my conditioning has paid off where as officiating numerous games I would be winded , now bring it on , I feel great and look for more."
Domenic Zecca

"I have gotten a few questions/compliments about how skinny I look lately. I think a lot of it had to do with the nutrition part. I was in the group of guys that really had no idea was would be a good diet and what/when should I be eating. The nutritional instruction provided in the swat team manuel and blogs/e-mails was really helpful for me. I have changed a lot of what/when I eat. That I think is a lot more than a 12 week contest for me."
Darren Glur

"I still would like to continue with your Mental Toughness camp, they area great reading and I really do relate to a lot of things you've said.The group is really great to me, I feel real inclusive. I never felt like that with any other groups outside UO."
Josh Huston

These refs have all "dug into their foxholes", turned a blind eye and a deaf ear (no pun intended) to all the naysayers, ignored the 'good ol' boy network', and have chosen to do all the little things...100% of the time...when no one's watching...for fear that I someone will either (a) pass them by, or (b) put a boot up their ass, or (c) lump them in with all the other lazy ass refs, doing little to collect a lot.

My job in UO is to put a boot up a guy's ass, if needed. Actually, truth be known, that those who belong to UO Referee Programs, they've put their butt on the line and decided to hold their peers accountable. They know, "you're only as good as your last shift". The UO machine runs itself in terms of high expectations and accountability...I just keep the wheels greased.

So, after all this talk about Chilean miners, Uruguayan's surviving plane crashes, and tough-ass refs working harder than the 'good ol' boy network', the question remains:

WHO ARE YOU JOINING IN YOUR FOX HOLE?

Who would you choose to be stuck with in a mine for 69 days, if faced with the choice?

Who would you want to be stranded in the Andes mountains with after a plane crash?

Who do you want pushing, motivating, and leading your hockey referee development?

HERE'S MY OFFER TO YOU

In no uncertain terms, we want you in our 'UO fox hole'* if (and only if):

a. You're wanting to be the BEST. Second best won't do. We cater to those who are ass-kickers, because there's no way in heck we want anybody with a timid nature with us in a plane crash in the Andes, unless, of course, you'd end up dead and we'd eat you to survive (just kidding! I know...that was in bad taste...oops! Did it again!).

b. You want a group to push you to lose some goddam weight (I think that's straight enough talk for what we offer: a program for you to LOSE SOME GODDAM WEIGHT!).

c. You're sick and tired of the 'good ol' boy' network.
(OK, I'm not holding back here - my goal is to create some serious carnage with the "fat cats" and we will eat the dead!)

d. You believe in a cause/crusade - see how UO Fights Cancer & the Special Offer Month after Month. Although you do need to hurry! This offer ends on October 31st (we ain't got no 69 days to play this one out).

e. ALL OF THE ABOVE - If you're all in, I will be all in to help you reach all your goals and dreams - that's a guarantee [see guarantee here].

Having no fear, being iron-willed and tougher than nails as a referee will not only help you out in hockey...life...or work...it just might help if you're stuck in a mine or crash land on a mountain. You click on the button below, get rid of your fears, and let's do it!

* Our "fox hole" is our UO MDM program - we offer FREE** videos, online training, weekly hockey and referee lessons, and a FREE copy of the SWAT Team Training Manual, the only referee-specific training online or anywhere.

** You're probably ondering why I'm literally giving you a FREE $79 Membership and Materials. It's because I've personally discovered what quality mentoring and advice is like, and I've also personally encountered numerous hockey refs who got little or none. I know that there is 'insider information' out there and I have made it my lifetime mission to share these secrets with as many hockey refs as I can through my work with Ultimate Officials.

ATTENTION: UO is very Brett Favre-like

2010-10-16T09:22:00.002-05:00

If Brett Favre can show his "member", so can we...that could be scary. Read on...

Good ol' Brett Favre - future Hall of Fame QB, Wrangler jeans guy, incessant waffling decision-maker, sexter...

Don't be so melodramatic, Brett

The guys is now (in)famous for (allegedly) showing his junk to a former NY Jets employee (what a dope he is). Is that why he like the song, "Pants on the Ground" so much???

************
Well, UO shows our "members" too!

************
The only difference is that we're not afraid to do it. In fact, we're blatant about it now -- pictures, videso, letters in the mail, email -- we're baring it all! For a price (does that make it a 'peep show' if you have to pay to observe?), a portion of which goes to Hockey Fights Cancer, and you get Bigger and Better games:

"I just want to say thanks again for what you're doing for me and the others with UO. I know I'm much further along as an official after joining UO for a year than the 6 years on my own beforehand. Also, it's great that you're using this as a benefit for Hockey Fights Cancer."

Aaron Barlow, W. St. Paul, MN

I realize that Halloween is coming up, and it can be a spooky time (Cameron Voss, one UO member, just called 244 PIM's in one game!), and there could be some common fears among hockey refs. The fear of being caught in public with your pants on the ground psychologically for a ref is akin to blowing a call. What I mean by that is something like blowin a call where a plyer breaks his neck (see info here). That's what happened to me. Go click on that link to see why/how I lost may balls.

No More Losing My Balls

Scary? Not.

I have no fear in trying to sell you this membership. None whatsoever, because I believe in the effect for you and the goodness in what UO does. If there's one thing I do like about Favre it's that he shows no fear on the football field (ever seen the guy play with no chin strap?). Refereeing with a "No Fear" mentality is part of the package (pun intended) offered from UO. It's all about channeling your nervousness and anxiety to perform at a higher level.

You know that broken neck incident? That could've screwed me for the rest of my life. Instead, I've used it to take my game to a whole new level.

So...get over your fear of commitment (ain't no wishy-washy elite level refs out there).

Join our unit...

This ain't no junk...

Our membership is swelling...

Don't be a little weeney...

Don't shrink away!

** Those who join UO at our low $0.99 price (way cheaper than paying off a mistress or, heaven forbid, some divorce attorney ant settlement - you better get ready, Brett), and do so by Oct. 31, will get a FREE bag tag.

Perspective, Perseverance, and Performance

2010-10-12T11:35:00.008-05:00

June 2007 I got the call from my physician...you've got cancer. What?!? The same thing my Mom died from almost 3 years prior? What?!? I am too young. Oh shit...


Join UO for the Fight - Be a Member to Donate to Hockey Fights Cancer

-----> go to www.uospecialoffer.com to Join the Fight <-----

*************

So, even though it's not quite as severe or quite as dramatic as Lance Armstrong (nor quite so drama filled, either). There are some of the same emotions (youtube clip here).

For me, since 2007, I have had some complications that show up from time to time (stuff like infections, low white blood cells counts, etc.). This past summer was a bit more of the same, meaning it was more...kind of scary more. But, this ain't gonna be no sob story (my wife hates it when I talk like a hick :), and I am going to wear my heart on my sleeve. This is going to be about the 3 P's mentioned in the title.

This Guy Wears His Emotions on His Sleeve

*******************
PERSPECTIVE - It's time to get busy, folks. Don't put anymore stuff off for tomorrow, like, "Oh, I will get in shape when I have the time." Ain't gonna be no time. The time is now. We are all dying, meaning we are all getting old and time is passing us up.

Quick perspective question: "When you are done with your life, what will you regret more? Chances you took or the chances you didn't take?"

In my officiating career, I have had few regrets. I chose my path to get to where I wanted to get, worked my tail off, and I have been blessed to do some pretty big games.

However, now I am going to combine two things I will fight for -

(1) The development of the hockey referee. GOAL: To get 100 hockey refs to join our subscription list (which starts at $0.99 a month for two months, and then converts to $10 a month thereafter).

(2) The fight against cancer. GOAL: Donate 10% of all UO proceeds to Hockey Fights Cancer.

There will be NO regrets in my hockey life from this day forward. None.

*****************
PERSEVERANCE - One of the first steps in obtaining any kind of success in life is to have a burning desire. You need to have dogged determination, put on the blinders, and just 'go for it'.

I see a lot of hockey refs doing this day in and day out. They get in their car, they drive obscene distances, they make sacrifices at home with family and with their jobs, and they show up at the rink at all hours of the day to work the greatest game in the world - ice hockey.

Joining Ultimate Officials will give you the opportunity to collaborate on a monthly basis with many other like-minded hockey refs. These are the guys who want to "BE THE BEST". They are hockey refs from the 'grassroots' levels all the way up to the pro levels. To get an idea why a ref would join UO, read their words, not mine: Why You Should Join UO

My perseverance is to push for more members, more development, so more refs get Bigger and Better games. The beauty is that more donations will be made through my Zebra Foundation (started in 2007) and more money to "Hockey Fights Cancer".

*******************
PERFORMANCE - Do you have super-charged self motivation? Or does your motivation waver from time to time, based upon your (a) mood, (b) schedule, (c) health, or (d) all of the above?

Do you think that you'd be MORE MOTIVATED to train, exercise, workout, get stronger, lose weight, cut fat if you belonged to a group? I know you would. Let's talk about "Social Aptitude":

"I don't care how much of an introvert or a loner you may be, or think you are, you can't reach high level success on your own. You need to surround yourself with others who share your goals and commitment to them. And the more spectacular your goals are, themore you need this support. By definition, winners are people who pursue goals that most other people would consider to be impossible. Recently a friend of mine joined a powerlifting club, where he quickly noticed that he was by far the weakes person in the gym, despite being fairly strong by any other standard. Within a month my friend had added more than 100 pounds to his lifetime best squat! How? Well, he learned some technical pointers for sure, and he trained very hard, but essentially, he got stronger by osmosis. In other words, just being in the presence of a lot of guys who were far stronger than he was, just out of pure intimidation and (probably) embarassment, he got a lot stronger very, very fast.

Whether it's a matter of finding a good training partner or joining a coaching group (i.e. Ultimate Officials), find people who share your goals and commitment. This can be one of the most result-producing decisions you ever make."
Charles Haley, Muscle Media

Wow. In a couple or paragraphs, Haley explains exactly what Ultimate Officials does to improve your officiating. Guaranteed.
*********************

You've Got Three Choices Right Now:

1. Join Ultimate Officials and Start Getting Better as a Ref

(or you may even be 'entertained' by our newsletters)

---------> go to www.uospecialoffer.com <------------

2. Decide, "I don't want to join, but I'll donate Right Now"

(click that button right below)

3. Do nothing.
(ouch -- if that's your choice...I will just have to follow up with you - see 'perseverance')


Join UO for the Fight - Be a Member to Donate to Hockey Fights Cancer

The Brain of a Ref & Technology

2010-10-09T14:29:00.000-05:00

Think like a Caped Crusader

Holy Mental Focus, Bat Man!

Twice in the last week I have seen stuff, online, about the mental side of hockey. I would include the links here, but then you would leave this site and go look at them. If you are a ref, I want you right here, because my message has importance for you.

Ultimate Officials Mental Tuffness Training (R) - (you can go check out this site :)

Training, development, off ice conditioning, and specialization are at a ALL TIME HIGH in the hockey world right now. For crissakes, my 5 year old daughter has already been to a hockey camp, with on-ice and off-ice training (I attended my first hockey camp when I was a 2nd year Squirt), and soon she will probably want to join some 3 on 3 league. It's never ending. I think this is both good and bad (that's a debate for another time).

Regardless, the choices a player has nowadays are never ending. It's not just in hockey, either. I personally know of programs in my area that are run by former professionals, who offer One on One Coaching for baseball, basketball, golf, and volleyball.

So, I ask the question again -- "Where does leave the hockey referee?"

As evidenced by the link above, Ultimate Officials offers a Mental Tuffness program. This is an online course for any official. All things considered, the importance of knowing what goes on in the "6 inches between your ears" is getting it's deserved due. After all, when you get to a certain point in your career - as a player or as a ref - the physical skill sets are all similar. What truly separates the "good from the great" is how you think.

***************

Huh???

The brain is a computer, but my computer is not a brain.

Here's my situation - my desktop PC is coming up on four years old. That means that it is starting to (a) get outdated, (b) starting to get a bit 'slow', and (c) currently pissing me off.

For my Minnesota Development Model Camp, I churn and burn a lot of video on my PC. It's a method to better instruct and help hockey referees. I ain't no computer dummy (even though I sound like a 'hick from the sticks'), and I know enough to perform what I need to perform.

My PC ain't performing. That just means that I have been spending the last week cleaning up my computer in order to get the damn thing running smooth again.

Kind of like me.

I am not 22 years old anymore. I have to kick my ass in gear each and every week to stay sharp physically, to keep the fat from piling up on my mid-section, and keep my "wheels" moving. I post my accountability on my facebook account (see my stuff on the right hand side). I am doing pretty damn good, but complications from getting cancer 3 years ago continue to try and slow me down. No more.

How about you? You keeping yourself running smooth? Whether you are 22 or 62, we can get you going with referee-specific workouts. Check out the stuff on the right hand side, too.

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Here are the two sites I have seen in the past week:
1. USA Hockey - The Hockey IntelliGym - http://www.usahockeyintelligym.com/
2. The Minnesota Advancement Program - this is totally identical to what UO does for refs - http://www.maphockey.net/

A New NHL Season Begins

2010-10-07T10:40:00.000-05:00

Atta boy, Clutter.

As I type this, there is approximately 45 minutes until the puck drops in Helsinki, Finland between the Minnesota Wild and the Carolina Hurricanes. I love a new season in the NHL, with all the hope and promise for playoff glory (OK...I realize that most "experts" have the Wild picked to finish 14th in the 15 team Western Conference...there's still hope).

I also love watching referees work NHL games. Yep...you might be like me...but I spend the majority of my time watching the Zebras, seeing how they react to situations.


Brad Watson

I watch refs to see how they are communicating.

I watch refs to see how they skate.

I watch refs to see their body language.

I watch refs to see how they drop a puck, signal a goal, signal a penalty, work the goal line, work the blue line, and skate on an icing. I watch it all and DO IT SO I CAN LEARN.

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I am also amazed at the people who bitch and complain about officiating. I am a huge fan of Justin Bourne's Blog, and he had this to say about officiating:

So here’s what I’ve discovered about myself from really being immersed in the NHL with other fans: nothing makes me lose more respect for one of them than ref blaming. It’s by no means just in hockey, but I’m BOGGLED by how many people actually think their team got the raw end of the deal every night. I don’t just mean Canucks and Red Wings fans either. I mean there’s this CRAZY percentage of people who regularly blame losses on bad reffing.

My question is, if NO ONE in the world can do it well (in those people’s opinion), how hard must that job be? Making split-second subjective calls that are subject to the scrutiny of millions of people with instant replay and slo-mo? No sir, I don’t like hearing that crap. Can’t respect ref-blamers.

Well said, sir. Spot on.

Do you have a funny story about an idiot fan (kind of like the two dads I saw at a girls HS game who were going to fight because one owed the other one money?).


Good message, but not intended to be a political message

OK...let's drop the puck already!