Bruce Hood - Builder (Ice Hockey) - Class of 2017
Bruce broke into the local sports scene as a young sports columnist for the Milton Canadian Champion. Yet it was his dedication and love for the game of ice hockey that turned Bruce in to a household name, not only in Milton but also throughout the world of hockey.Bruce's accomplishments as an Official in the National Hockey League are impressive even by today's standards. Bruce officiated 1033 regular season games and 157 playoff contests over a 21 year career and was the last to officiate in all Original Six arenas. He was also an Official in three NHL All-Star games, three Canada Cup Series, the World Hockey Championships and the Spengler Cup. His contribution to sport extends well beyond his accomplishments as a National Hockey League Official.
Bruce was a builder of the game, looking to contribute more than just his time on the ice. He was instrumental in the formation of the NHL Officials Association, assisted in creating the Milton Referees Association and operated the association for 18 years. Bruce taught officials from around the world and patented equipment specific to referees. He was the Referee-in-Chief of the Tri County Hockey League and Milton Referees Association.
When he wasn't traveling for hockey, Bruce remained involved in the local sports community. He served in a multitude of capacities including statistician for the Milton Minor Hockey Association and Central Ontario Hockey League, Secretary of the Halton County Baseball Association and President of the Milton Tennis Club.
His mark on the Milton sports scene certainly has extended well beyond his initial days as a sports columnist with the local newspaper.