FAQ - Clinics/Registration
How old do I have to be to start refereeing?
You must be 13 as of December 31 (of the current year in Calgary and Edmonton areas). Outside of Calgary and Edmonton you can be 12 and officiate, it’s always best to contact your local minor hockey association to ensure services are needed, in most cases they are!
What level do I register?
If you are 15 as of December 31 (of the current year), you register as a Level 2. If you are 12-14 years, as of December 31 (of the current year), you register as a Level 1.
What is the cut off date for me to sign up for a clinic?
The sign up process is closed a couple of days prior to your clinic. Please ensure you are signed up for the clinic of your choice prior to the cut off date.
If I was a Level 2 last year, can I register as a Level 3 this year?
No, unless you have been approved by your Region. You would have received a letter or a phone call prior to this season starting. When in doubt, ask your Regional Coordinator.
Do I need to attend a clinic every year?
Yes.
Can I referee before I take a clinic?
If you were certified last year you are allowed to officiate up to December 15. At that point, if you have not re-certified you cannot continue to officiate. If you are a new official or were not certified the previous year, you cannot step onto the ice to officiate until you have completed a clinic.
Do I pay insurance?
All registered officials are covered by Hockey Canada’s insurance.
Do I need to bring a lunch?
Yes.
What is the ice session?
For all one-day clinics for new officials or for 12-14 year old returning officials, there will be an ice session in the mid-afternoon of your clinic. They are a minimum of 1 hour. The time and location will be on the clinic schedule tab. Your instructors will also let you know the time and place first thing in the morning. All officials must take part in the ice session. This is where we will do drills that will help you understand proper positioning, signaling, penalty calling, icings and offside. There will be some skating drills as skating is an integral part of officiating. Bring skates, whistle, helmet with visor. Wear comfortable clothing (wearing your referee jersey is an option). You are required to have your own transportation to the ice session.
Can I miss any time?
We realize that most of our officials are also players. However, attending class is an important part of your development. As we have now gone to all on day clinics, you cannot miss any time or leave early. There is an exam and it is administered at the end of the day (3:30 pm). Plan your attendance accordingly. This is a job and needs to be treated as such. Training is paramount to your success.
Do I need to pass the exam?
If you are writing a Level 2 or higher exam, there are passing grades that need to be achieved. Thus it is a good idea to come to class prepared. Read your rule book and listen to your instructors. If you are writing a Level 1 exam, you just need to complete the exam. However you should still strive to get the best mark you can. The better you understand the rules, the better you will be on the ice.
How much does it cost to start officiating?
Please consult the Officials Fees list.
How can I pay my fees?
Payment can only be done online using a credit card when you register for your clinic.
How many games will I officiate a week?
This is a tough question to answer as it all depends on how many officials are in your community and how often you make yourself available, understand as well that it will depend as well on how adept you become at officiating. Please contact your local minor hockey association and ask them this same question to ensure that your services are needed.
Supplies?
Your Hockey Alberta Crest & Hockey Canada shoulder patch are included in your registration, and something the instructor will have on hand for the clinic, you can also check your local sports store for additional Crests or Patches.
