Hockey Nova Scotia is proud to announce the winners of our 2022 Hockey Canada Officiating Program Branch Awards.

MOST DESERVING OFFICIAL: Ryan Walker

Ryan Walker has more than 26 years of officiating experience at rinks across Nova Scotia. His decorated officiating resumé includes assignments at regional championship events, as well as international events like the 2016 World Sledge Hockey Challenge.

A Level 4 (Branch High Performance) official, Ryan joined Hockey Nova Scotia's officiating high performance program in 2006. 

A role model to many aspiring referees, Ryan always enjoys working with younger officials as both a mentor and coach.

MOST PROMISING OFFICIAL: Justin Blanchard

A Level 3 official, Justin began his officiating journey at the age of 12.

His talents were noticed early and today, he is one of the most promising young officials in the province.

In his young officiating career, some of his personal highlights include working the final of the U13 AAA provincial final in 2018, as well as assignments in the Nova Scotia U16 AAA Hockey League, Nova Scotia U18 Major Hockey League, and the Nova Scotia Junior Hockey League.

MOST IMPROVED OFFICIAL: Chad O'Neill

A student at Cape Breton University, Chad O'Neill played Junior hockey until 2021 when he shifted his focus to officiating. His growing passion for officiating has been reflected in the improvements in his craft.

This past season, his hard work paid off as he was selected to work the lines at the 2022 TELUS Cup in Okotoks, Alta.

His schedule was a busy one as he received assignments in seven different leagues including the Maritime Hockey League.

On behalf of everyone at Hockey Nova Scotia, we would like to congratulate Ryan, Justin and Chad on receiving our 2022 Hockey Canada Officiating Program Branch Awards.