Nicolas Dutil, one of the greatest officials in QMJHL history, passed away on August 19 following a hard-fought battle with cancer.
Respected by all in the hockey world, Dutil had a significant impact on the QMJHL, proudly wearing the league’s striped jersey for 28 seasons.
A physical education teacher in his everyday life, he left his name in several areas of the QMJHL record books:
1,420 (1st) – Most career games by an on-ice official, regular season and playoffs
242 (1st) – Most career games by a referee, in the playoffs
1,178 (2nd) – Most career games by a referee, in the regular season
In addition to these impressive accomplishments, Dutil has also refereed at several notable events over the years, including: nine (9) QMJHL Finals, the QMJHL All-Star Game (2001), the Canada-Russia Series (2004, 2007, 2009, 2014), the Winter Classic in Drummondville (2018), and the Memorial Cup tournament (2010, 2012).
The 52-year-old will have officiated his final game back on March 22, during a matchup between the Sherbrooke Phoenix and the Tigres, in his hometown of Victoriaville.
_
To view Nicolas Dutil’s official profile, click here.
