The National Lacrosse League (@NLL), the largest and most successful professional lacrosse property in the world, today announced the appointment of retired 32-year veteran National Hockey League referee Don Koharski as its Director of Officials. Koharski, affectionately known as ‘Koho’, will begin his NLL duties immediately as the league gears up for the 2021-22 season launching on December 3.

Koharski, 65, officiated 1,882 regular season, 262 playoff and 11 Stanley Cup Finals games in his NHL career, which began in 1977 as a linesman before ascending to referee in 1981. The Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, native has been a longtime lacrosse supporter, as a player helping the Nova Scotia team to a silver medal in the Canada Summer Games in 1973 and coaching the Hamilton Bengals midget lacrosse team in 1980 and 1981. He is a member of the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame, inducted in 2007.

“In preparation for the 2021-22 season, Koho will take a deeper dive into more effective positioning and movement patterns, enhanced game management and communication skills allowing our officials to take their skill set to the next level” said Brian Lemon, NLL EVP of Lacrosse Operations. “His passion for the sport of lacrosse and the respect he earned in more than 2,000 NHL games will be crucial when recruiting and developing the best amateur officials for our sport.”

“I am honored to be a part of the National Lacrosse League, and excited to work with our officiating staff to make them the best they can be for the 2021-22 season and beyond.” said Koharski

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