The Illinois Hockey Officials’ Association (IHOA) is looking for YOU to officiate this season. IHOA just added a new seminar in Northbrook on September 27, 2014. Are you up for the challenge?
I am sure you are wondering what you have to do to become a referee. Hopefully, this article will provide you with some insight into the registration process.
The Illinois Hockey Official’s Association (IHOA) conducts all aspects of officials’ registration, instruction, curriculum, training, evaluation, supervision and mentoring. From the beginning of an Illinois ice hockey official’s career to the end of his/her career and everywhere in between, IHOA plays a vital role in the entire process.
So what is the FIRST step to become an official? Simply put, you should have the desire to participate in perhaps greatest sport known to man. You will be challenged physically and mentally as an official.
The registration process is straightforward and user friendly. Head to the IHOA website (www.ihoa.com) and click on the “seminar information” link on the left hand column. From there, simply follow the prompts and register for the Northbrook location.
Level 1 officials are the newest officials so if you are just starting out, you should register for Level 1. As a level 1 official, you will need to bring your skates, helmet (without a cage but WITH a properly affixed visor), elbow pads and good cheer to the seminar. Once at the seminar, the IHOA instructors will take it from there and teach you how to officiate an ice hockey game.
In addition to the IHOA registration, all officials must register with USA Hockey. Even if you already registered with USA Hockey as a player or coach, you must register again as an official. For more information regarding the requirements of USA Hockey, head to their website at www.usahockey.com.
I hope to see you at the Northbrook seminar and as an on-ice official this season!
Michael B. Barrett
IL Ref-in-Chief/Supv. Of Officials
Categories: Officials