Even though he began his career as a player and organizer in St. Catharines, Ontario, it was as a referee that "Max" or "Porky" Peart achieved fame.

His reputation was attained by his judgment and by his strictness and fairness in the interpretation of the rules. As a result, in 17 years as a referee he officiated in 40 Mann Cup games, 6 Minto Cup games and numerous other games at all levels.

Max excelled in many sports and was at one time named as the outstanding all-around athlete of the City of St. Catharines, Ontario.