And You Think Your Job Is Tough...

NHL officials make a living out of living dangerously. They have to avoid pucks being fired all over the ice, they have to avoid getting in the way of a player in full flight, and they have to avoid bodychecks whenever possible. In short, it's a tough job being invisible. And then there's the tough stuff that no one in stripes wants to be a part of at any point. However, linesman Darren Gibbs got more than he bargained for when he jumped in to break up Max Lapierre and Cal Clutterbuck.

Gibbs takes an overhand left from Clutterbuck square in the kisser in that tilt on November 3. Thankfully, Gibbs was alright and continued in the game, but I'm not sure there's anyone who wants to take a shot like that. Kudos to Gibbs for not diving as well.

Just for the record, Gibbs has been an NHL linesman since September 1, 1997, and has worked over 800 NHL games. It's not like he hasn't broken up a scuffle or two in his time, but I'm pretty sure this is the first official punch he's taken in the NHL.

Anyone who complains about how hard their job is, I direct you to this video. Being invisible is a lot harder than it looks. Keep up the great work, Mr. Gibbs!

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!