Bill Devorski honored

Mr Bill Devorski, father of NHL Referee Paul Devorski and NHL Linesman Greg Devorski was recently honoured before a Guelph Storm game as part of the 60th anniversary of the Guelph Hockey Referees Association. Below is the article that appeared on the Guelph Storm web site for the ceremony.

"The Guelph Storm was honoured to recognize the 60th anniversary of the Guelph Hockey Referees Association prior to their 4-3 win on Friday night and honour founding member Bill Devorski. Joining Bill for the pre-game ceremonial face off were two of his grandsons Ben and Ryan Wilson, who were linesmen for Friday night's game. Also participating in the ceremony were former GHRA referee and NHL linesman Ron Asselstine and GHRA President Jeff Baker.

Founded in 1949 by a group of nine who had a love and passion for hockey, the Guelph Hockey Referees Association was the result of their efforts to better organize scheduling and improve local hockey. The GHRA would like to acknowledge the efforts of these nine men - Reg Berry, John Glover, Bill Lindley, Ed Kenny, Jack McKinnon, Ralph Milne, Lou Maschio, Bill Devorski and Doug Brill.

Since the inception of the Association, over 800 Referees have been members and the GHRA is renowned for the number of graduates that have advanced to higher levels of hockey. Several NHL officials began their officiating careers in the Association including George Ashley, Will Norris, Ray Scapinello, Ken Bodindestel, Bill McCreary, Paul Devorski, Greg Devorski, Lou Maschio and Ron Asselstine while many others have gone on to officiate in the OHA, OHL and other pro leagues.

At present, the association has 70 members officiating over 2,300 games a year including GMHA, Guelph Girls Hockey Association, St George Hockey Association, as well as High School and Woman’s leagues.

Much like sixty years ago, the GHRA Mission continues to be: “Dedicated To Fulfilling Officiating Needs Through Commitment, Pride & Knowledge.”

The GHRA was also pleased to recognize the tremendous work of Ron Asselstine and his Guelph Wish Fund For Children Foundation who are celebrating 25 years in Guelph by presenting a cheque for five hundred dollars."

The NHLOA would like to congratulate Mr Devorski for this honour and Mr Asselstine for his continued contribution to the Guelph Wish Fund For Children Foundation