In the rough-and-tumble world of professional hockey, there exists an unwritten code that governs the behavior of players, coaches, and officials. This code, often shrouded in mystery, dictates how players should conduct themselves on and off the ice. Paul Stewart, a former NHL referee and player, has shed light on this code in his candid remarks, providing a fascinating glimpse into the psyche of hockey’s enforcers.
Stewart’s comments, as quoted in Ross Bernstein’s book “The Code: The Unwritten Rules of Fighting and Retaliation in the NHL,” offer a unique perspective on the role of enforcers in the NHL. According to Stewart, there’s nothing more infuriating than witnessing a player “talk shit” without backing it up. These “paper tigers,” as Stewart calls them, would often run their mouths, thinking they could hide behind the officials. However, Stewart knew better.
As a referee, Stewart would instruct his linesmen to stand back and allow the confrontational player to receive their comeuppance. This approach, though unorthodox, served as a valuable lesson for the offending player. The look of shock and embarrassment on their faces was, in Stewart’s words, “priceless.”
Stewart’s anecdotes provide a glimpse into the complex dynamics of the NHL, where physicality and intimidation play significant roles. Enforcers, like Stewart, were tasked with maintaining order on the ice, often through means that didn’t involve the rulebook. Their presence served as a deterrent, warning potential agitators to think twice before engaging in unsportsmanlike behavior.
The code that Stewart references is an unwritten set of rules that governs the behavior of players, particularly when it comes to fighting and retaliation. This code dictates that players should respect their opponents, avoid cheap shots, and stand up for themselves when necessary. Those who fail to adhere to this code risk facing the wrath of their peers.
Stewart’s comments also highlight the importance of accountability in the NHL. Players who engage in unsportsmanlike behavior, such as trash-talking or cheap shots, must be held accountable for their actions. This accountability can take many forms, from a stern warning from the referee to a physical confrontation with an opposing player.
In recent years, the NHL has taken steps to reduce the emphasis on fighting and physicality, instead focusing on speed, skill, and player safety. While this shift has been welcomed by many, it has also led to concerns that the game is becoming less physical and less competitive.
Stewart’s remarks serve as a reminder that, despite the changes to the game, the code that governs the behavior of players remains an essential part of the NHL’s culture. This code, though unwritten, provides a framework for players to conduct themselves with respect, integrity, and accountability.
As the NHL continues to evolve, it’s essential that the league finds a balance between promoting player safety and maintaining the physicality and competitiveness that have always defined the sport. By embracing the code that Stewart and other enforcers have lived by, the NHL can ensure that its players continue to conduct themselves with the respect and integrity that the game demands.
In conclusion, Paul Stewart’s revealing insights into the NHL’s unwritten code provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of professional hockey. As the league continues to navigate the challenges of promoting player safety while maintaining the physicality and competitiveness of the game, Stewart’s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability, respect, and integrity in the NHL.
