Denver, Colo., May 5, 2013 / 12:12 pm
If you're a hockey fan and you don't know who Denny LaRue is, that just means that he has been doing a good job.
While the name might sound familiar to close followers of the game, it's likely due to his having been a referee in the National Hockey League for more than 20 years now, as opposed to a player or coach who becomes recognized by being in the headlines.
"While we (on-ice officials) don't get or crave the spotlight, it's rewarding to know you've contributed in a meaningful way," LaRue says.
Regardless of the sport, being a referee or umpire is a humble choice because it means that one isn't seeking the limelight. This is consistent with the lesson in the Catholic faith that this life isn't about us, it's about God. LaRue feels that officiating is a role for sports enthusiasts to give strong consideration to in place of trying to achieve star status.