Former Hockey Player Makes NHL Officiating Debut

Former hockey player, Mike Sullivan, is set to make his debut as an official in the National Hockey League (NHL) this Sunday in the match between the Calgary Flames and Arizona Coyotes.

Sullivan, who will be wearing jersey number 47, will be joined by referee Kendrick Nicholson (#30) and linesmen Travis Toomey (#90) and Bevan Mills (#53), with Officiating Supervisor Al Kimmel overseeing the game.

Sullivan’s journey to NHL officiating started after his college hockey career at Bowling Green State University, followed by playing stints in Italy and the U.K., including time with the Dundee Stars in the EIHL.

His officiating aspirations took shape after attending the NHL Exposure Combine in 2017, leading him to work in various leagues such as the AHL and OHL before earning a full-time referee role in the AHL.

According to the NHL Officials Association (NHLOA), Sullivan’s background includes playing hockey in Scarborough, Ontario, collegiate hockey at Bowling Green State University, and professional stints in Italy and the UK.

Throughout his officiating journey, Sullivan worked diligently in youth and minor leagues, eventually earning a shot at NHL officiating with his debut scheduled in Calgary.

Sullivan is the latest addition to the group of new referees making their NHL debuts this season, joining a select few who have earned the opportunity to officiate at the highest level of hockey.

In his debut game, Sullivan witnessed a high-scoring affair as the Flames triumphed over the Coyotes with a 6-5 victory, marking a memorable start to his NHL officiating career.