There are quite a few factors that can make a ref stamd out from the sea of refs out there. Some might think that being strict to the rulebook is the play, and some might think letting the players play is the play. I think that balance and finding an even ground between the two is a lost art and what really differentiates a great ref from a good ref. Yes, rules need to be followed, but Hockey isn't a sport with the benefit of hindsight and retroactive calls. Things happen in real time and that includes calling the game. This means that occasionally, mistakes will happen. I think it's important for refs to ref fairly, and when they realize they make a mistake, they can't look to have a make up call soon after. You made a mistake, move on, and ref the rest of the game the way you normally would have if you didnt make that mistake. The last thing you want from a ref is someone who is constantly over compensating.