Live a Killer Life

 Jim Mill, former EVP American Hockey League 

Carl is a true and consummate professional. While on my AHL staff, he was one of my most trusted and reliable linesman, always willing to go above and beyond. His attitude on the ice and around the game is excellent. Carl has always been willing to help nurture younger officials while maintaining a solid and professional relationship with not only the entire officiating staff, but also with the players and coaches involved in the games. He worked at the highest level of the most important games throughout the regular season and playoffs. Carl was especially valuable during the Playoffs when emotions were at their most extreme – always remaining levelheaded and professional in the toughest of times. The League was fortunate to have an official and person as dedicated as Carl.

As a player for the Houston Aeros i got to know Carl well as he refereed many of our home games. Although at times i didnt see eye to eye or agree with the officials, i was always glad to see Carl on the ice for our games. He was a fair, consistent and reliable presence that used strong communication skills to manage the game. We always knew exactly what to expect from him and appreciated the level of respect he showed to everyone; it is how he gained the trust and often friendship of the players. Carl and i  became friendly off the ice as well and i remember one summer when playing in a men's league game he was reffing at Memorial City Mall where he had to break up several fights.........he warned me before the game that it was a rowdy league and he made sure to keep me out of trouble! His work ethic, professionalism and passion are the ingredients that make him successful.     

As a professional hockey referee, the importance of having a trusted linesman on your crew is paramount.  A great linesman can make the game easier, while even an average lineman can do things to turn the tide of a professional hockey game into a struggle for the officials.  Carl was one of the best linesmen that I worked with and I always looked forward to seeing him on my schedule.  His professional approach, calm demeanor, and physical conditioning were top-tier in an incredibly competitive environment.  Knowing he was on the ice, able to leverage his experience and knowledge, took a burden off my shoulders… especially when I was new in the league. 

 I remember Carl from my time in Houston. He always brought a professional attitude to the rink and communicated well with players. He worked hard, he was honest and not afraid to admit if he made a mistake. The mistakes were few and far between, but he took ownership of all his calls. The guy worked hard and seemed to enjoy being on the ice and it showed. In difficult games during scrums which happened in front of my net, he stepped up and managed the situation well. I can say he was a man of character and integrity. 

 As many others will tell you, when officiating any sport at any level, it is important to have trust in your partners. It is difficult to find a more trustworthy partner than Carl Sasyn. I have worked countless games at all levels with Carl, and have always been greeted with a professional and calm demeanor. He knows exactly when to be extremely serious, yet is always there to lighten the mood when necessary. Carl’s passion for the game and his profession are traits that set him apart.
The years that Carl and I worked professional hockey seemed to fly by, and those long rides after a hard game are missed (sometimes). I am fortunate to still work with Carl at the youth level along with his desire to help new officials. Hopefully others will appreciate Carl’s passion for the game as much as I do! 

 I have known Carl since 1996, when I broke into the OHL as a linesman. The times I skated in Erie for an Otters game, it was fun working with him. I looked forward to skating with him, as I learned a lot from him.

In 2001, when I became a referee and we skated a game together, I took comfort knowing that Carl was on the lines. He is very knowledgeable and a great team player.

He is very capable in handling any task given to him. I would definitely recommend him in any role assigned to Carl.