Interview with Andy McElman
On episode 18 of the Team Stripes Podcast, Brandon sits down with former NHL linesman, Andy McElman. A Chicago native, Andy got to work 1500 games in the NHL, retiring after his 1500th game working the lines of his hometown team, the Chicago Blackhawks.
Andy had an interesting journey to the NHL, really getting his start with the Officiating Development Program (ODP) in the US, and progressing through to the NHL. However, after several years in the league, he was released and began working in the International Hockey League (IHL). After working in the IHL, he was rehired to the NHL. In our interview, Andy talks about how this experience helped to strengthen his fortitude.
Along the way in his NHL career, Andy has worked several playoff games, has worked the 2009 Winter Classic, the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, as well as an NHL All-Star game.
In our interview, Andy shares his perspective on how the game has changed for officials, including his thoughts on rule changes like hybrid icing and the NHL’s new standard for face-offs.
After his on-ice career was over, Andy made the switch to the management side of officiating, now currently overseeing officials in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL). In our interview, he shares his thoughts on what he looks for in prospective referees and tips for improving.
Be sure to listen to the full episode below: