FPHL Mourns The Loss of Brent Rutherford

The Federal Prospects Hockey League is mourning the loss of officiating supervisor Brent Rutherford. Brendan “Brent” Francis Rutherford passed away peacefully at his home in Sterling Heights, Mich. on Friday September 20th at the age of 73.

Rutherford joined the FPHL officiating supervisors staff at the start of the 2023-24 FPHL season.  He most notably served as an NCHC supervisor of officials for nine seasons.  In all, Rutherford served as an officiating supervisor at the collegiate level for nearly 25 years, including 12 seasons with the CCHA and two with the WCHA.

“Brent truly loved the game and wore the supervisors role with pride and distinction.  He was inspiring and he definately had a way to talk to everyone no matter what type of person you are.  And he never sugar coated anything and just told you like it was and everyone loved that about him,” said FPHL Director of Officiating Paul Jene.  "The way he presented himself, you’d though he was family.  You couldn’t help but smile every single time you saw him because you knew he was there for you, had your back and just wanted to make you a better official.  He was loved by everyone and will really be missed."

Prior to his supervisory role, Rutherford was an on-ice official in the NCAA for 20 seasons. He was a referee for 18 seasons, splitting his time between the CCHA and WCHA, while also working two years as a linesman. During his time as an on-ice referee, Rutherford was selected to work the playoffs in 12 straight seasons, while advancing to officiate the NCAA Tournament twice.

The FPHL on-ice officials will wear helmet stickers with Rutherford’s initials throughout the season in dedication of his passion to his service of officiating and his love for the game of hockey.

In addition to his long officiating career, Rutherford also had a successful career in industrial sales. Rutherford, who was born on Nov. 8, 1950, is survived by his sister, Eileen, and brothers, Joseph and Kevin, as well as four nieces and nephews.

The FPHL is a Single-A Minor Professional hockey league that will be operating in its 15th season during 2024-25 Season.