The Average NHL Referee Salary
National Hockey League referees are the judges and jurors of on-ice action during a game. Since their duties require a thorough knowledge of the sport's rules and intensive skating ability, their pay rate is typically very competitive.
Other People Are Reading
-
Various Salaries
-
NHL referees, according to the Philadelphia Flyers' front office, are paid an average of $115,000 to $220,000 per year, or an average of $1,402 to $2,682 per game. Salaries range based on experience, seniority, and general ability.
Justification
-
The work of an NHL referee is highly specialized and can only be executed by a person that has been intensively trained. Aside from having superb skating skills, NHL referees also must be quick and agile enough to leap and dodge the puck, other players, and the general flow of play. Referees also must be physically capable of breaking up fights between very large hockey players. While anyone can learn the NHL rulebook, having the wits to apply that knowledge to an extremely high-paced game environment is something else entirely.
-
Comparison to Linesmen
-
Linesmen are assistants to the referees, and typically make between $77,000 and $120,000 per year, again depending on skills, experience, and seniority. Though linesmen do not have all the responsibilities of a referee, their work demands the same brand of athleticism and quick responses.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
