from Mike Walker of CTV,

It takes years of training and a lot of skill to make it to the NHL, and it takes the same to make it as an NHL referee.

This week, a lot of those refs are in Collingwood at a unique training camp. They are among the best in the game and just like the players, these NHL referees go through an intense training camp before the puck drops on another season.

“We're the 31st team,” says ref Wes McCauley. “It gets our mind back in the frame thinking about the game.”

Director of Officials Stephen Walkom says they’re in for a tough schedule.

“They have to clear medicals first, then some time in the classroom and power skating on the ice,” he says.

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