Stories from Ice Level - by Rob Simpson (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A candid and wildly entertaining account that offers hockey fans and sports history enthusiasts a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the game's most pivotal moments from the perspective of one of its most respected referees.

No one has seen more, heard more, or called more than Bill McCreary.

From the raucous benches to the heart-stopping moments of hockey's biggest games, Stories from Ice Level offers an unfiltered look at the sport through the eyes of one of the most respected officials in NHL history. A 2014 inductee into the Hockey Hall of Fame, McCreary officiated more Stanley Cup Final games than anyone else in league history and was front and center at the most iconic international showdowns of the modern era.

Whether it's wild locker room moments, on-ice brawls, calling Sidney Crosby's Golden Goal, or handling death threats against Mario Lemieux, McCreary brings fans deep into the game's gritty, gutsy and often deeply personal moments, sharing the stories that only someone wearing the stripes can tell.

Review Quotes

"I have so much respect for Bill. An unbelievable ref, but what I liked the most is that you could talk to him. It's an emotional game, you're not always going to like calls, you didn't have to agree with him, but he was fair and you'd talk it out and the next period you moved on. Always approachable and he had control of every game he reffed." --Joe Sakic, Hall of Fame honored centre and Colorado Avalanche President

"Billy was one of the most likeable referees in the NHL because he was transparent, honest and respectful. He earned his stripes and respect from all of the players around the league. I am grateful for his support throughout my career." --Zdeno Chara, Hall of Fame honored NHL defenceman

"Billy is the consummate professional who always valued the game, and the game's history, integrity and reputation, above all else. He is a one of a kind." --Bill Daly, NHL Deputy Commissioner

"Bill officiated with a code of respect and brutal honesty. When I was a rookie in the NHL, he quickly put me in my place and taught me that mutual respect was needed between player and official. Lesson learned. I always looked forward to the banter and laughs that followed!" --Kevin Bieksa, Hockey Night in Canada panelist and former NHL defenceman

"15 Stanley Cup Finals, 3 Olympic Gold Medal games. I can't wait to read the behind the scenes stories of the greatest NHL referee of his era. From small town Ontario to the world's biggest hockey stages, Bill had a front row seat to all of the greatest hockey moments that his Hall of Fame career provided." --Pete DeBoer, 17-year NHL head coach

"In more than 1,700 NHL games and almost 300 playoff games, including 15 Stanley Cup Finals, Bill was a professional referee in every aspect of how he did his job! He communicated throughout the game and he allowed the players to decide the outcome, regardless of the stakes. On or off the ice Bill listened to you, and then imparted his knowledge so you could hear his perspective and benefit from his experience. He was respectful and opinionated, and as both a player and as a manager I have enjoyed getting to know and work with him." --Don Sweeney, Former 16-year NHL defenseman, Boston Bruins GM

"All of that respect he earned, that personality, and all of the events I was talking about? I look forward to reading all of these stories." --Craig Berube, long time NHL player and head coach