Interview with NHL linesman Pierre Racicot

What was your impression of the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga training camp for officials?

It's very similar to our camp in the NHL, we are doing the exact same things. The referees are way better in shape than five years ago and more professional. Other big leagues are taking notice of how good officials are in Erste Bank Eishockey Liga, there is a demand for them. There were lots of good junior referees at the camp, that's very good. They are pushing the other ones and waiting for their term.

What's the most important lesson to learn for young officials?

Being the referee is a unique position. You are part of the game as you serve it by officiating. The officials have to understand the importance of the role they play in the game and how they serve the game. They are working in a great league and need to give their best every day, that's great responsibility.

How do you define success from the officials point of view?

With working the big games pressure becomes even more but it's also a great success. All teams and players want is to win a hockey game, they will do everything for that goal. As an official you have to use the rules to your own advantage. The refs working finals should be the leaders within the group. 

Pierre Racicot in NHL action (©  GEPA Pictures)

What's the most important in preparation for a game?

You have to prepare yourself mentally. The game is played inside the glas, outside it's just noise. It all starts the day before the game. If you care about what's on social media and the newspaper, you get caught up in noise during the game. Every decision goes against one team, it's always wrong in the eye of someone in the arena. You have to forget about the noise, focus on rules and judgement.

Are you in touch with the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga officials during the season?

I follow the guys and try to watch 12 games every month, depending on my NHL schedule. It's not just me coming to the camps and leave for another year, my door is always open. The process for the entire year is important. The guys often send me video clips and I tell them if it was the right call or if they should do different.