Why an obscure rule lets NHL players become referees if officials no-show for games

NHL rule 31.11 allows players to become refs under specific circumstances. We asked GMs who they'd pick if it ever happened to their teams.

Unnoticed until it matters: Love of the game worth the madness that comes with being a ref

What a retired NBA ref, a top college ref and a young high school referee think about March Madness.
Opinion

NFL blames replacement officials plan on NFL Referees Association

On Wednesday, the league had no comment on the emergence of indications that the league has begun compiling a roster of replacement officials, in the event the NFL again locks out its game officials.

NFL eyeing potential replacement referees for 2026 season as CBA questions loom

The NFL is floating the idea of using replacement referees with union talks stalling — again. ESPN reported Wednesday that the league is “laying groundwork” to hire replacement officials if it and the ...

USA vs Canada referees for 2026 Olympic hockey gold medal game

The main event of the 2026 Winter Olympics is finally here, with Team USA men's hockey facing off against its hated rival, ...

NFL begins beating the bushes for potential replacement officials

Project Fail Mary 2 is in the works.

Referee, 77, marks 60 years and 4,000 games

A referee who has overseen about 4,000 games over 60 years has said he enjoys his role more than ever. Howard Bevan, 77, ...