Devoted fan Nathan Catling honoured in Sault Ste. Marie
The Ontario Hockey League recognized a special fan in Sault Ste. Marie on Friday.
Nathan Catling, a 26-year-old long-time fan and friend of OHL officials at games in Sault Ste. Marie, was presented with a customized officiating jersey on Friday prior to the Hounds’ 4-1 win over the Kitchener Rangers.
“Anyone that knows Nathan knows that he demands a lot from OHL officials,” said linesman Marcus Policicchio. “He never misses an opportunity to attend the dressing room before and after games to tell us how he feels about the Greyhounds performance as well as our own.”
Catling, who has gracefully dealt with Muscular Dystrophy for his entire life, had been a a Greyhounds season ticket holder with his grandfather Lynn up until this season. For the first time in over 20 years the two are unable to attend games regularly due to the combination of Lynn’s rising age and Nathan’s deteriorating health.
“Nathan has humoured us for years and his deceased brother Skylar also spent time assessing our performances,” added 15-year OHL officiating veteran Troy Miller. “In my time in this league I place great value in the relationships made and Nathan is a great ambassador for the OHL.”
OHL Manager of Officiating Ken Miller presented Catling with the customized jersey pre-game.
The Ontario Hockey League thanks Nathan and his family for their long-time commitment and dedication to our game.