One of the most experienced and respected ice hockey officials and supervisors in college hockey, Greg Shepherd, enters his 43rd season with the WCHA – and 29th as the Director of Officials – in 2020-21. The longest-tenured officials' supervisor in college hockey, Shepherd began in the role with the WCHA Men's League in 1992 and has served in that capacity since the inception of the WCHA Women's League in 1999.
Known for being an excellent instructor who stresses the importance of proper and open communication with players and coaches, Shepherd is responsible for identifying, training, developing and sustaining the WCHA officiating staff. Under his tutelage, several men's and women's officials have received prominent postseason assignments – including his sons Derek and Brad, each of whom have worked NCAA Frozen Fours.
Shepherd's commitment to hockey has spanned more than 40 years and six decades on and off the ice. After beginning as a youth hockey official, he worked his way up to the collegiate level and debuted with the WCHA in 1978. Shepherd spent 14 years as an on-ice official with the league, working in 10 NCAA Men's Frozen Fours during that time.
A veteran, Shepherd served in the United States Navy from 1967-69. He also worked for Northern States Power Company for 35 years, while serving his community on the West Saint Paul City Council for four years.
Shepherd and his wife, Nancy, have been married for 49 years. Greg and Nancy are parents to three children (Derek, Tiffany and Brad) and are proud grandparents to Austyn, Madison, Cameron, Lauren, Gabby, Anthony, Joe and Ryan.