A tireless promoter of USA Hockey’s Officiating
Program, Pat Bush has been instrumental in the
growth of grassroots officiating development,
particularly in North Carolina and the Southeastern District. When Bush started his service with USA Hockey in 1990, there were only a handful of officials in Raleigh, North Carolina, and he quickly became involved in strengthening the base of local officials. He was a catalyst in forming the local officials association in Raleigh, providing a vehicle for growth and development. He served as president of the organization for many years, and still maintains a strong presence within the association. The Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, native started attending instructors’ camps in 1996, but was involved in the seminar process long before that. When the idea to hold a district officiating seminar in Raleigh came up, there were concerns about whether the North Carolina market could fill an entire weekend seminar. Bush worked to ensure the seminar was filled, handled logistical elements of the event, and even personally drove around to pick up younger officials so they could attend. Bush continues to work with young officials to ensure they have proper instruction and evaluation as well as opportunities for continued growth. He has set up a mentoring program, and also started a mini seminar series about officiating education. The presentations, which last from one to three hours, take place throughout the season and exemplify Bush’s dedication to mentoring young officials in the North Carolina community.

The Chet Stewart Award recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the USA Hockey Officiating Education Program during many years of service to the hockey community as an official and/or volunteer.