The 2017-18 season ended on a high for some of the UK’s officials with strong representation at IIHF World Championship tournaments.
Liam Sewell was one of the referees at the World Championship Division I Group B tournament in Lithuania, while Tom Pering was a referee at the Under-18 World Championship Division III Group A in Turkey.
Amy Lack was on the line for the Women’s World Championship Division I Group B in italy, while James Kavanagh was a linseman for the U18 World Championship Division I Group B in Ukraine and Danny Beresford was linesman for the Men’s World Championship Division II in South Africa.
Tom Pering said: “This was my first international ice hockey tournament, something I have been looking forward to doing for quite a while.
“Officiating at the international level is a great honour for any official and I was particularly proud to represent our country as an official at this tournament.
“For me, it was an amazing learning experience, gaining insight into officiating practices from around the world under the guidance of an experienced supervisor, which I hope will improve my game in the seasons to come.”
James Kavanagh said: “I am very privileged and honoured to be selected to represent Great Britain again and I hope it continues for a few more yet. This was my 15th IIHF event and I have travelled to some great places.
“I have made some great lifelong friends from all over the globe. As you become more experienced you tend to always know a few people and this makes it a lot easier and less stressful.
“Being selected to officiate at an IIHF World Championship is a great achievement and I am extremely proud.
“This season saw me officiate in the Elite league, the last 16 of the CHL, the Challenge Cup semi-finals, the playoffs, playoff semi-final, playoff final and then finishing with an IIHF Championship. Its been a good season and I am very proud of what I have achieved.”
IHUK referee-in-chief, Joy Johnston, said: “We had had so many officials work at IIHF tournaments this season and it shows how highly regarded they are across the world.
“We have had good feedback on their performances this season and it is fantastic we have had so many go to World Championship tournaments.
“I think officiating in the UK is strong right now and we have more interest than ever before.”