Print this pageNew Referees (District 4 – Stittsville)
Do you: 1) enjoy the game of hockey; 2) like being a member of a team; and 3) want to make some extra money?
If so, wearing the stripes is rewarding job that puts you right into the thick of the action. The Stittsville/Richmond Minor Hockey Referees Association (SRMHRA) is the looking for new referees for the 2010/2011 season. Although the exact number of new positions will not be determined until September, applications are now being accepted. Below is some important information that new officials should know before they apply. Please note we cannot guarantee that all applicants will be hired as officials in the SRMHRA due to the limited number of positions that become available every season.
Why a Stittsville/Richmond referees association?
The referees of the SMHA and RMHA joined forces in 2008 in order for both hockey associations to draw from a larger pool of officials.
Who is considered a ‘new’ referee?
A new referee to SRMHRA is:
- a first year official (i.e. someone who has never refereed hockey before);
- an official who was certified last year, but worked in another branch, district or association;
- an official who previously refereed in Stittsville or Richmond, but has been inactive for any reason.
Is there an age requirement for new officials?
The minimum age for applicants has been lowered to 15 years of age for the 2010/2011 season only.
How do I apply to be a new official in the SRMHRA?
Simply complete the application form. Please be sure to include as much contact and relevant background information as possible.
When is the application deadline for the SRMHRA?
The deadline for applications is August 15, 2010. This early deadline is necessary in order to conduct interviews and book on-ice evaluations prior to the annual, mandatory clinics.
How are new officials selected?
In-person interviews will be conducted once all applications are received; the interviews will be conducted in late August – early September. The interviews will be followed-up with an on-ice evaluation to gauge the skating ability and fitness of each applicant. Successful applicants will then have to take a referee certification clinic in September or October.
What is involved in the Hockey Canada Officiating Program (HCOP) referees certification clinic?
Every new and returning referee must be certified at the beginning of every season. One-day certification clinics are held throughout September and October on Saturdays or Sundays. The clinics are lead by senior referees who teach aspects of the game including: rules, procedures, equipment requirements, game management and dealing with coaches and players. All participants must write and pass an exam at the end of the clinic in order to certify for the season. All registration fees are paid by the participant.
The ODHA referee body instituted a mandatory quiz program in 2008 to improve
rule knowledge. All officials are required to write four, on-line quizes throughout
the season.
More clinic and quiz information is available at http://www.odharefs.com/.
Can I take a HCOP clinic without the permission of the SRMHRA?
A new official must have the permission of the SRMHRA to take a clinic in order
to be guaranteed a position for the season. If you take a clinic without permission
you run the risk of not being able to find a position with the SRMHRA or even
within the ODMHA.
How much time must I commit to refereeing during the season?
This is up to you! Our website-based assigning system allows you to set your availability in order to balance refereeing with your school, work, sports and other commitments.
Where will I have to referee games?
The SMHA and RMHA play regularly scheduled games in Stittsville (old arena and Goulbourne Recreation Centre), Richmond, Bell Sensplex and Beckwith Arena.
Should I treat refereeing as a job?
Absolutely. Refereeing hockey is exciting and fun but players, coaches, parents and fellow referees expect all officials to conduct themselves with professionalism both on and off the ice. Referees must show commitment to the game of hockey and maturity to manage the responsibilities that accompany the job.
Are there meetings?
You bet! The SRMHRA has mandatory, monthly meetings throughout the season to distribute pay cheques and discuss important issues that arise.
We will be accepting applications for the 2010/2011 season effective immediately. Please note the application deadline of August 15, 2010. The application form can be found here. Please contact the Referee in Chief if you have any questions.