Paul Stewart

Paul Stewart is recognized in North American professional hockey for his dual roles as both player and official. Stewart became the first American to referee more than 1,000 National Hockey League regular-season games and remains the only American to have both played and refereed in the NHL. He is the grandson of Bill Stewart, who was the first U.S.-born coach to win a Stanley Cup, leading the Chicago Blackhawks to victory.

As a player, Stewart was known as a tough enforcer, appearing in 65 games in the World Hockey Association and 21 games in the NHL, including time with the Cincinnati Stingers alongside Mark Messier. He trained in aikido and boxing with champions such as Joe Frazier and Marvin Hagler, and appeared as an extra in the film "Slap Shot." After his playing career, Stewart worked in various roles, including as a police officer and car salesman, before transitioning to officiating.

Stewart began his officiating career at the grassroots level and eventually refereed his first NHL game in his hometown. Over his career, he officiated 1,010 regular-season games, 49 playoff games, the Canada Cup, and two All-Star Games. During his officiating tenure, Stewart was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer but continued to work while undergoing treatment. He was honored with the National Association of Sports Officials Gold Whistle Award for his contributions to officiating and the community.

Following his retirement from NHL officiating, Stewart served as ECAC Hockey Men's and Women's Director of Officiating, overseeing officials during multiple NCAA championships. He also held the position of chair of officiating and advisor for discipline in the Kontinental Hockey League. Stewart has advocated for cancer research and support, serving as an ambassador for the NHL's Hockey Fights Cancer campaign. He was inducted into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, joining his grandfather in this recognition.

Outside of hockey, Stewart has written a memoir titled "Ya Wanna Go?" and a children's book, "A Magical Christmas for Paul Stewart," with proceeds supporting youth hockey initiatives. He has also directed the Bill Stewart Foundation, raising funds for inner city youth sports. Stewart's career spans professional hockey, officiating, cancer advocacy, and authorship, making him a prominent figure in the sport's community and a speaker on resilience and reinvention.