The Ontario Minor Hockey Association, in partnership with Force Sports, will once again host OMHA Referee Schools - Enhanced Entry Level Program to train and mentor new officials. With the introduction of a new format this year, there will be seven schools. The weekends will include classroom instructional sessions, on-ice training and a written certification exam.

NOTE: For interested new officials - contact your local Minor Hockey Association to confirm a need for new officials, when games are scheduled and how this best fits your schedule.

The OMHA Referee Schools provide new officials with methods and procedures of officiating in both the 2 and 3 official systems, as well as the new guidelines for modified ice hockey. They will also instruct uniform interpretation of the rules while teaching effective communication strategies and techniques. Students will acquire officiating skills and rule knowledge while completing OMHA and Hockey Canada qualification requirements for the upcoming season.

Minimum age is 14 years old unless otherwise stated.

• Oshawa – September 14-15, 2024 (FULL)
• Strathroy – September 14-15, 2024 (FULL)
• Milton – September 21-22, 2024 (FULL)
• Windsor – September 21-22, 2024 (Registration Closed)

Dates and locations for the Referee Schools in October have been announced:

• Clinton – October 19-20, 2024 (FULL)
• New Hamburg – October 19-20, 2024
• Barrie – October 26-27, 2024 (FULL)
   

“The Schools set the foundation for our new officials, providing the students a learning environment in the classroom that encourages participation and active on ice modules which illustrate the fundamentals of the officiating program,” said Dave Wedlake, Chair, Referee Program for the OMHA. “The OMHA has been delivering the Referee School Program for over 20 years, which indicates the high standard and value of this program.”

“The combination of classroom and on-ice sessions provides a unique learning environment for new officials,” stated Ian Taylor, OMHA Executive Director. “This program has been a starting point for numerous officials who have had a successful career officiating at the minor hockey level with some moving on to Junior, International and Professional careers.”

For more information including how to register, visit the OMHA Referee School page.