The Bill McKenna Memorial Scholarship Foundation Rebrands as “STL Referee Scholarships”; Announces Appearance at 2026 Blue Note Cup

ST. LOUIS, MO – The Bill McKenna Memorial Scholarship Foundation is proud to announce a formal rebranding to STL Referee Scholarships. This transition introduces a refreshed focus and a new tagline: “Honoring Bill McKenna, Supporting Ice Hockey Officials.”

While the name is changing, the core mission remains steadfast: rewarding dedicated ice hockey officials with financial assistance for their post-secondary education. By celebrating those who wear the stripes, STL Referee Scholarships continues to invest in the people who keep St. Louis hockey moving forward.

The foundation was established in 1997 to honor the legacy of Bill McKenna, a pillar of the St. Louis hockey community. From playing pond hockey in South St. Louis and competing for St. Louis University to serving as an NHL off-ice official, Bill dedicated his life to what he called “the greatest game to play and be around.” Since its creation, the foundation has provided more than 120 scholarships to hockey officials.

Inaugural Appearance at the Blue Note Cup

The public’s first opportunity to engage with the refreshed brand will be at the 2026 Blue Note Cup Championships at Centene Community Ice Center. STL Referee Scholarships will host an informational table at the event, serving as a hub for players, coaches, officials, and spectators to learn about scholarship opportunities and the foundation’s history.

A central feature of the foundation’s presence at the Blue Note Cup will be a celebration of the 2025-2026 Scholarship Recipients:

• Matthew Funk (Weldon Springs, MO)

• Ryan Potocki (O'Fallon, MO)

• Kevin White (Republic, MO)

These young men represent the future of officiating in Missouri, balancing their commitment to the game with their academic pursuits.

Looking Ahead: New Video Project

In addition to the rebrand, the foundation is excited to announce that a special video project is currently in development. This forthcoming production will highlight the impact of officiating on the St. Louis community and showcase the legacy of Bill McKenna through the eyes of those he inspired.

“This new brand helps us clearly communicate our mission to a new generation of officials and hockey enthusiasts while keeping Grandpa Bill’s memory at the heart of everything we do,” said Mike McKenna, Bill’s grandson and current STL Referee Scholarships board member. “Between our presence at the Blue Note Cup and the upcoming video project, there has never been a more exciting time for our foundation.”

For more information on the scholarship program, donation opportunities, or to engage witht he foundation on social media, please visit the newly updated website at www.stlrefereescholarships.org.