NHL and officials ratify new 4-year pact

NEW YORK (AP) - The new labor agreement between the NHL and the league’s officials is in effect.

The league’s board of governors and the NHL Officials’ Association ratified the four-year pact Wednesday that was agreed to Oct. 4. The deal will run through the 2013-14 season.

“We are pleased to have reached a new agreement with our officials,” NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said. “We look forward to working closely with our officials to ensure that the quality of our game continues to be the best that it can be.”

After referees and linesmen worked the entire NHL preseason schedule without a contract, the sides hammered out the new contract just a few days before the start of the regular season.

“NHL officials are the best in the world and will continue to bring their dedication to ensuring a quality on-ice product,” said Harry Radomski, the executive director of the NHL Officials’ Association. “These negotiations have been reflective of the relationship between the NHLOA and NHL which is characterized by a mutual desire for what is best for the game.”