The BCHL announced today that linesperson Matt Williams has been hired by the American Hockey League (AHL).
The 27-year-old Williams has worked in the BCHL for 12 years and has been officiating since he was 12 years old.
“Being hired to work the AHL had me running through a lot of emotions,” he said. “It wasn’t just the opportunity or the offer, but it allowed me to reflect on all the time spent training and travelling, as well as the work our staff puts into games preparing on and off the ice.”
“My family always believed in me, as did my friends, colleagues and my spouse Morgynn. She always pushed me to believe in myself and that this was something we could accomplish. It wasn’t easy, but the opportunity shows it was worth it.”
Williams has battled adversity since a young age after he was diagnosed with Leukemia when he was a child. With that in mind, he describes this opportunity as surreal and an absolute whirlwind.
As a veteran official in the league, Williams was called upon to work the league championship series the past two seasons.
“The BCHL officiating team would like to congratulate Matt on this well-deserved opportunity,” said Brad Lazarowich, BCHL Vice President of Hockey Operations and head of the Officiating Department. “Matt is one of the top-rated linespersons in our league and was recently scouted at the NHL Officiating Combine where he made a positive impression with both the NHL and AHL.”
“This hiring highlights how important it is for our program to ensure our officials are given every opportunity to accomplish their goals.”
“When the call came from Brad to be a part of the BCHL, I don’t think I could have said yes any faster,” said Williams. “It’s been the best decision I’ve made in my hockey life. The environment he has been able to create and the support the entire staff has given to the officiating crew is beyond anything I’ve experienced in hockey.”
Williams will continue to work in the BCHL this season, while also getting AHL games throughout the year.
He is the third BCHL official to be hired in professional hockey in recent months, joining Ben Betker who was hired by the NHL and Jamie Pavia who was hired by the ECHL.
