Terry Gregson

Terry Gregson enjoyed an exceptional career as an NHL referee and officiating leader, earning respect throughout the hockey world for his consistency, professionalism, and commitment to developing the next generation of officials.

Gregson began officiating in Ontario minor hockey in the mid-1960s, advancing through the ranks of the Ontario Hockey Association before joining the NHL as a referee in 1979. Over the next 25 years, he officiated 1,428 regular season games and 158 Stanley Cup Playoff games, including eight Stanley Cup Finals (1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000) and one NHL All-Star Game. His international résumé includes assignments at the 1982 World Championships, the 1996 World Cup of Hockey, and numerous international exhibition and premiere games across Europe and Asia.

Beyond his on-ice accomplishments, Gregson was deeply involved in the NHL Officials Association, serving on its executive committee for 20 years and as President from 1988 to 1994 and again in 1996–97. Following his retirement from officiating in 2004, he transitioned into management, becoming the NHL’s Senior Vice President and Director of Officiating from 2009 to 2013. In that role, he led officiating operations, Olympic official selection and management, and the development of programs that continue to shape the NHL’s officiating standards today.

Gregson’s influence extended far beyond the NHL. He has conducted officiating seminars in over a dozen countries, served as Officiating Manager for the Spengler Cup and multiple IIHF tournaments, and contributed to numerous committees advancing the integrity and professionalism of officiating across all sports.

His career achievements have been recognized with numerous honors, including induction into the Guelph Sports Hall of Fame (2008), the Ron Foxcroft Award (2007) for excellence in professional officiating, and the NASO Gold Whistle Award (2012), one of North America’s highest honors in sports officiating.

Today, Gregson remains active as a consultant, advisor, and speaker, continuing to share his leadership and passion for the art of officiating with officials, organizations, and sports communities around the world.