MIHL On-Ice Officiating Organization and Structure Announced for 2025-2026 Season
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
St. Louis, Michigan April 17, 2025- MIHL On-Ice Officiating Organization and Structure Announced for 2025-2026 Season
The Michigan Independence Hockey League (MIHL) Board of Directors has finalized the governance structure and leadership team responsible for the recruitment, scheduling, supervision, evaluation, and development of on-ice officials for the 2025-26 season.
This move comes as the league prepares for continued growth, including the addition of two new teams for next season. Commissioner Scott Brand, speaking on behalf of the Board of Governors, stated, “This is another step in solidifying and enhancing overall league operations as the MIHL expands our footprint within Michigan.The Board also extends its appreciation to the Officiating Committee for their efforts and recommendations in shaping the officiating program for 2025-2026.”
The League also announced that it will host all officiating managers a meeting in June before the board of governors meeting to discuss rule changes and officiating issues.
The MIHL Officiating Committee- serves as an advisory resource to the Board of Directors and Commissioner on all matters related to the recruitment, training, assignment, and evaluation of on-ice officials. The committee also plays a key role in reviewing, interpreting, and disseminating rule changes as needed.
2025-2026 MIHL Officiating Committee Membership
Director of Officiating: Adam Hackstock
Adam Hackstock serves as the Director of Officiating, working in close partnership with the Referee in Chief (RIC) to oversee all officiating personnel within the Michigan Independence Hockey League (MIHL). He acts as the primary liaison between the officiating team, the league commissioner, and the Board of Governors. Together with the RIC, Hackstock is responsible for making recommendations on supplemental disciplinary decisions. He also is the final authority on the interpretation, communication, and implementation of league playing rules, including any changes or points of emphasis. As the spokesperson for the MIHL Officiating Committee, Hackstock evaluates rule proposals and leads their adoption and execution when approved.
Referee In-Chief: Dan Westrick
Dan Westrick, as Referee In-Chief, manages the MIHL Officiating Managers and holds primary responsibility for scheduling officials throughout the league. All Officiating Managers (Schedulers) report directly to him. Westrick conducts annual evaluations for all officials and must approve playoff game assignments before they are finalized. He is one of the two principal decision-makers on the MIHL Officiating Committee, sharing leadership with the Director of Officiating.
MIHL Officiating Managers (Schedulers):
Metro Officiating Director: Dan Westrick
Northern Officiating Director: Bailey Barr
Western Officiating Director: Dan Cosgrove
Contact for Officiating Opportunities:
Director of Officiating Hackstock advised that “Individuals who are interested in learning about officiating opportunities within the MIHL can contact me for more information at udontr8@gmail.com
About the MIHL:
Entering its sixth season in fall 2025, the Michigan Independence Hockey League continues to offer competitive Semi-Pro Senior A hockey, showcasing players with junior, collegiate, and professional experience. The league is committed to fostering a sustainable, community-oriented hockey environment for both players and fans.
For further details, please visit https://mihl.hockeyshift.com.