How to become a referee

 

 

The first step to becoming an official is to approach your local zone league office. This will put you in contact with other officials to set you on your way.

The next step is to make sure you attend a Level 1 Certified referee clinic. These happen at the beginning of each year. Dates and times will be communicated to you through your local zone referee in chief or can be found here on this site at the beginning of each season.

Then get out there and referee any hockey game you can. Experience is the key to your success. Any officiating experience is invaluable, regardless of what level you have played. As you get more games under your belt you will get bigger and better games and will draw from all your experiences and grow as a well rounded official.

Training outside of Regional clinics is available to you by way of official training schools and camps as well as power skating sessions. These resources can help in your development as they will give you the technical skill set needed. Many of the people who instruct, are current or former officials in the N.H.L., who have been students at these very same training schools. Some of the topics that are emphasized include, on ice positioning, signals, penalty calling, skating skills, and off ice theory sessions to give you a sense of "the game"

Remember, whether you are a first time official, have some experience, or are looking to officiate after or during a playing career (at any level). The key to your success is you. You need to get out there and "just do it"