Hockey World in Shock: Beloved 28-Year Referee Tragically Passes Away at Age 52

Nicolas Dutil, who has officiated as a QMJHL referee for 28 years, tragically passed away this morning at the young age of 52. It was hard to describe the loss that his family, friends, and the hockey community had to go through.

For nearly three decades, Nicolas Dutil was a recognizable figure on the ice that hockey enthusiasts throughout the province of Quebec and in Eastern Canada were all too familiar with.

His professionalism and work ethic earned him the title of one of the league's most respected referees, and his passing will be felt throughout the entire community.

Dutil's on-ice tenure exceeded 28 years, during which he worked hundreds of games. Junior referees from multiple regions and leagues looked up to him as an example of fairness, consistency, and for the love of the game that he had.

This spring, in March specifically, we all witnessed a heartwarming gesture by Dutil to fans and colleagues when he returned on the ice after a battle with cancer.

His presence went even beyond whistles and penalties, as we all felt the human aspect of it all.

We would like to extend our sincerest condolences to Nicolas' family, loved ones, and friends. His legacy will live on in the sport for years to come.