Eleven-year OHL officiating veteran Mike Hamilton set for final weekend

After 11 seasons spent officiating in the Ontario Hockey League, Mike Hamilton enters his final weekend with consecutive games in Kitchener on Friday, Barrie on Saturday and Oshawa on Sunday. A product of Barrie, Ont., Hamilton began his OHL tenure as a linesman before wearing the bands as a referee for the past seven seasons.

“The most memorable part of being part of Team 21 has been the friendships and great teammates I have met along the way,” said Hamilton. “Being selected to win the Ken Bodendistel Character Award this past season is something that I will always cherish.”

Throughout his time in the League, Hamilton has worked two Memorial Cups in 2014 and 2022, one as a linesman and one as a referee, six different OHL Championship Series, 510 regular games and 108 playoff games.

“This league means so much to me,” he added. “I have learned so much from my fellow teammates and supervisors. I enjoy mentoring the younger, upcoming talent that I can share past experiences with. I have met so many lifelong friends along the way and have travelled to some pretty great cities in Ontario and the United States. I have memories that will last a lifetime. I’m proud of everything I have accomplished in the OHL and am truly grateful.”

The OHL wishes Mike Hamilton the best of luck as he moves onto the next chapter of his life with his wife and daughter in New Brunswick.