The hidden crew behind every face‑off
When the puck drops at rinks across New Mexico, the action on the ice is only half the story. Behind the boards, a dedicated group of off‑ice officials manages the scoreboard, tracks time, and oversees the penalty box, ensuring that games flow without interruption. The New Mexico Off‑Ice Officials Association, known as NMOIO, has been the backbone of this operation since it was founded in 2019.
Under the leadership of directors John Locke and Craig Kendall, NMOIO has built a reliable support system for the New Mexico Ice Wolves and now for the East Coast Hockey League’s newest franchise, the Goatheads. The Goatheads will make their debut on October 16 at the Rio Rancho Events Center, marking a significant milestone for the state’s hockey community.
The demand for volunteers has surged, especially with the ECHL’s requirement for roughly double the number of off‑ice roles compared to the NA3HL and NAHL leagues. Tasks range from maintaining statistics that can influence a player’s collegiate prospects to handing out pucks to referees and managing the penalty box. Off‑ice officials typically arrive 90 minutes before puck drop, giving them ample time to familiarize themselves with each position, from goal judge to timekeeper.
Long‑time volunteers like Lynn August and her wife Tammy have been part of the NMOIO family since 2021, while Kristina Lee, a coach for the New Mexico Mustangs and former player, brings both on‑ice and off‑ice expertise to the leadership team. Their stories illustrate a deep‑rooted camaraderie that keeps officials returning season after season, often sparked by a shared love of the game and the unique buzz of a live hockey atmosphere.
Preparation for the Goatheads’ inaugural season included a trip to Missouri, where Craig Kendall and John Locke observed the ECHL’s Kansas City Mavericks to fine‑tune their operations. This hands‑on learning experience underscores the association’s commitment to professionalism and continuous improvement, ensuring that every game meets the league’s high standards.
With volunteer slots expanding, NMOIO is actively recruiting new members who are eager to contribute to the sport’s growth in the region. Those interested can learn more and sign up at nmoio.org, where the next generation of off‑ice officials will find the training, community, and opportunity to shape the future of hockey in New Mexico.