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Finding hockey referees in Canada can feel confusing at first, especially if you are new to organizing games, running a tournament, or helping a community club. The good news is that the system is well organized, and there are clear places to look, simple steps to follow, and helpful people to contact. This guide walks you through everything in plain language, from where to search and who to call, to how much it might cost, what certifications to check, and how to build a reliable network of officials for the long term. Whether you are arranging one friendly game or planning a large event, you will be able to find qualified referees with confidence.
Why Referees Matter in Canadian Hockey
Safety and Fair Play
Referees make the game safe and fair. They apply rules, manage penalties, and set the tone for respectful competition. In youth hockey, their presence is especially important because they help protect players who are still learning, and they teach the right habits from the very first puck drop. A good referee keeps the game moving, diffuses tension, and ensures every team feels they were treated equally.
Development Pathways
Canada has a strong officiating pathway that runs from local minor hockey to junior, university, and professional levels. Officials receive training, pass clinics, and move up based on performance and experience. When you hire a referee in Canada, you are working with someone who is part of a national development system, guided by consistent standards and education.
Community Impact
Referees are part of the fabric of Canadian hockey. Many are former players or parents who invest their time so others can enjoy the sport. Paying them properly, respecting their role, and communicating clearly helps your local hockey ecosystem thrive. Strong officiating keeps games enjoyable and safe for everyone.
Types of Hockey Referees in Canada
Minor Hockey Officials
Minor hockey officials work games for children and teens. They follow age-specific rules, including body checking rules where permitted, and focus on safety and learning. Minor hockey officials usually come through the Hockey Canada Officiating Program and are assigned through local minor hockey associations.
Junior and High-Performance Officials
High-performance officials work Junior, U18 AAA, university, and elite showcase events. They have advanced training and experience. If you are organizing higher-level games, expect to work with an assignor who will choose officials with the right qualifications for the speed and intensity of play.
Adult Recreational League Referees
Adult rec leagues usually use a pool of experienced referees who are comfortable managing different skill levels and a wide range of player ages. Some adult leagues have their own assignors. Others rely on local associations. If you manage a team or a league, you will likely work closely with one contact who schedules all the officials.
Referee and Linesperson Roles
In many games, one official acts as the referee and others serve as linespersons. The referee manages penalties, goals, and overall game control. Linespersons handle offsides, icing, and faceoffs, and help manage player safety. Lower-level games may use a single official or a two-official system. Higher levels typically use three or four officials. Match the system to your game level and your budget.
Where to Search for Hockey Referees
Hockey Canada and Provincial Branches
The fastest path is through Hockey Canada’s provincial branches. Each province and territory has an officiating program, clinic structure, and assignors. Search for the provincial branch by name, such as Hockey Ontario, Hockey Quebec, BC Hockey, Hockey Alberta, Hockey Saskatchewan, Hockey Manitoba, Hockey New Brunswick, Hockey Nova Scotia, Hockey P.E.I., Hockey Newfoundland and Labrador, and Hockey North. On their websites, look for “Officials” or “Officiating” sections. These pages often list referee-in-chief contacts, branch assignors, and links to local associations.
Local Minor Hockey Associations
If your game is youth-level or community-based, contact your local minor hockey association. They usually have a Referee-in-Chief or Assignor who schedules referees for league games, practices, and exhibitions. If you do not know your local association, ask the arena staff for the association name or check the municipality’s website for sports associations that use that rink.
Referee-in-Chief and Assignors
Most areas have a designated Referee-in-Chief who oversees the entire officiating group for the association. This person might not schedule day-to-day games, but they can direct you to the correct assignor. Introduce yourself, explain your event or league, and ask about the proper process. Assignors help match the right officials to your games and ensure no conflicts of interest.
Officiating Portals and Scheduling Systems
Many Canadian associations use online systems to manage officials, game assignments, and payments. Common platforms include Ref Centre and Horizon Web Ref. Some tournaments also coordinate through league or team management tools. You may need to create an organizer account or email the assignor to have your games posted. If your area uses one of these platforms, ask the assignor how to submit games and how payment works.
Adult Rec Leagues and Private Rinks
For adult rec games, start with arena staff or the league manager. Private rinks often keep a list of referees and can put you in touch with an assignor. Many adult leagues use the same official or crew for the entire season. If you manage a new team independent of a league, request the arena’s recommended assignor and ask for the standard fees and policies.
How to Contact and Book Referees
Clarify Your Needs
Before you contact anyone, prepare the key details. Note the date, time, arena, level of play, age group, and the number of officials you want. Decide if you need a single official, two-official system, or a three-person crew. Consider whether you need timekeepers. Having all details ready makes it easier for the assignor to confirm your request.
Find the Assignor
Use your provincial branch or local association site to find the right assignor. If you are organizing a tournament, ask for the tournament officiating coordinator. If you are new, a quick email introducing yourself and your event is enough. Be polite and clear. Assignors are busy, so short and complete messages are appreciated.
Share Game Details
Send one message with all your games listed, including rink names and surfaces if you have multiple pads. Include contact information for a person on site. If there are special rules or age-specific rule changes, include them. For example, some divisions do not allow body checking, and some tournaments use a mercy rule. Share curfew rules and flood schedules if the arena is tight.
Confirm Rates and Payment
Ask the assignor about current rates and payment policies. In many places, officials are paid per game, and the amount depends on age level and number of officials. Payment can be cash, cheque, or e-transfer, and some systems allow payment through the scheduling portal. Clarify who pays, when payment happens, and how to handle cancellations. If there are additional fees, such as travel or mileage in rural areas, confirm those in advance.
Get Written Confirmation
Request written confirmation of each game, crew, rates, and payment method. If you use a scheduling system, screenshots or exported schedules are helpful. For tournaments, ask for a master schedule with all crew assignments and an emergency contact list. If the assignor has a cancellation policy, keep it in your event folder so everyone on your team understands the rules.
How Much Do Referees Cost in Canada?
Typical Range by Level
Rates vary by province, city, and level of play, and they change over time. As a general idea, minor hockey games often fall in a modest range per official, with fewer officials for younger ages. Adult recreational games can be a bit higher, especially late-night slots. High-performance junior or AAA events cost more because they require experienced officials and larger crews. If you are running special events or need senior officials to supervise, expect to pay a premium.
Factors That Affect Price
Game length matters. Three 20-minute stop-time periods cost more than shorter run-time games. The number of officials and whether you need a timekeeper also affects cost. Travel distance can increase fees in rural or northern communities. Assignors may add an administration fee to cover scheduling. Finally, tournaments often offer a day rate or package pricing. Always confirm written rates with your assignor before the event starts.
Budgeting Tips
When you plan your budget, calculate referee costs for all possible games, including playoffs. Add a small buffer for overtime or unexpected changes. If you are hosting a multi-day tournament, ask the assignor if a volume rate is available. Keep cash and e-transfer options ready, and have a clear payment timeline so no one waits after midnight to get paid.
Certifications and Requirements You Should Know
Hockey Canada Officiating Program Levels
Most Canadian officials are trained through the Hockey Canada Officiating Program. It includes clinic levels that progress with experience, from beginners to elite. Higher levels require evaluations and recommendations. If you are booking officials for higher-level games, ask the assignor to ensure the crew’s certification matches the level of play.
Courses and Background Checks
Officials complete online and in-person clinics, rules exams, and skating sessions. Many provincial branches require Respect in Sport or similar ethics training, as well as a background check for those working with youth. Some provinces have concussion education requirements. These requirements are usually managed by the provincial branch and local association, so you do not need to verify each item yourself. Instead, ask the assignor to send only officials who are current and compliant.
Insurance and Sanctioning
When you book through a recognized assignor or association, games are usually covered under the proper insurance and sanctioning rules. If you are running an independent event, ask about sanctioning and insurance options through your provincial branch or a recognized league. Proper sanctioning protects players, officials, and organizers in case of injuries or disputes.
Vetting Referees for Tournaments and Events
Verify Certification Level
For larger events, request that the assignor provide officials with suitable certification and recent experience at the same level of hockey. If your event has a specific playing style or rule set, provide it in advance so the crew can prepare. A good assignor will build a crew that fits your needs.
Ask About Experience
Share details like expected pace, number of games per day, and whether you anticipate full stands and media coverage. If your event is a showcase or has scouts present, ask for officials with strong game management. When officials are prepared for the environment, they can manage the game calmly and professionally.
Confirm Availability and Backups
Life happens. Weather, illness, and travel delays can affect staffing. Ask your assignor about backup options. For multi-rink tournaments, a standby official or a floating supervisor can save your schedule. Keep the assignor’s phone number and an emergency contact handy on event day.
Set Expectations Early
If you have a code of conduct, share it with the officials and benches. Clarify your stance on abuse of officials and how you will handle ejections or incidents. With clear expectations, everyone understands the boundaries and the event can run smoothly.
Insurance Confirmation
For independent events, confirm that your referees are covered by the proper insurance through an association or a sanctioned event policy. If you are unsure, ask your provincial branch how to obtain coverage or sanction your tournament. Do this well before your first game.
Building a Reliable Referee Network
Communicate Early Each Season
Reach out to your assignor before the season starts. Share your schedule, rink availability, and special nights. Early communication helps officials plan and reduces last-minute scrambling. If you organize exhibitions or practices that require officials for scrimmages, book them with the same lead time as games.
Pay Promptly
Pay on time and exactly as agreed. Many groups prefer e-transfer because it is easy and traceable. If you pay cash, prepare envelopes with names and amounts marked clearly. Being organized with payment builds trust and makes it easier to get help when you need a last-minute crew.
Provide Useful Feedback
If you have feedback, send it to the assignor respectfully, not directly to the officials after a tough game. Be specific, fair, and focused on future improvement. Assignors and supervisors know how to coach officials, and they will appreciate constructive notes that help everyone get better.
Support Development
Offer a supportive environment, especially for younger officials. Encourage coaches, players, and parents to treat referees with respect. If you have a mentorship program or supervisor budget, consider using it for playoffs or rivalry games. Supporting development keeps officials in the system and benefits your rink for years.
Respect Workload and Travel
Officials often work multiple games a day and travel between rinks. Share schedule changes as early as possible and avoid last-minute additions whenever you can. If your rink is far from town, offer to cover mileage or to coordinate back-to-back games to make the trip worthwhile.
Special Cases to Consider
Remote and Northern Communities
In remote areas, the referee pool can be small. Plan well in advance, consider hosting clinics to train local officials, and coordinate with nearby towns to share resources. Travel and weather can change plans quickly, so have a backup date or a flexible schedule.
Outdoor and Pond Hockey Events
Outdoor tournaments are popular and fun, but cold weather and variable ice conditions can make officiating harder. Hire officials who are comfortable outdoors and dress code-appropriate. Provide warm-up space and hot beverages. Clarify special rules like shorter periods or running time if weather is severe.
Women’s and Girls’ Hockey
Girls’ and women’s hockey may have rule differences at certain levels. Ask for officials with experience in these games if possible. When athletes feel fully understood by the crew, the game flows better and everyone enjoys it more. Consult your provincial branch for any specific rules or clinic requirements for female divisions.
Sledge and Para Hockey
Sledge hockey has specific rules, equipment, and safety considerations. Book officials trained for it or ask your branch to recommend experienced crews. If your event includes para divisions, confirm that the venue, benches, and access points support the officials and players.
Ball and Inline Hockey Crossovers
Some communities also run ball or inline hockey, which use different rule sets and officiating standards. If you are booking for these sports, consult the relevant governing body. Many ice hockey officials also officiate inline or ball hockey and can adapt quickly, but you must share the rule book and game format.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Booking Too Late
Waiting until the week of your game makes it difficult to find available officials. Book as soon as your ice is confirmed. For tournaments, secure officials as soon as you set your dates. Early booking builds goodwill and reliability.
Ignoring Provincial Policies
Each provincial branch can have its own policies about referee levels, travel, and tournament rules. Make sure your event follows these guidelines, especially around age divisions and checking rules. Confirm which rule book your event is using and share any local modifications.
Not Matching Skill Level
Assigning a single beginner official to a fast adult game or an intense U18 matchup is risky. Work with the assignor to match crew skill with game speed. You will get better game flow and fewer safety issues when the officials are a good fit for the level.
Relying on One Official for Everything
Do not rely on a single official for multiple rinks or a full-day tournament without relief. Fatigue leads to mistakes. Build crews and rotate them. Provide breaks and refreshments so officials can stay sharp the whole day.
Cash Only with No Record
Cash may be convenient, but keep records of who was paid, when, and for which game. If you use e-transfer, include game numbers or dates in the notes. Good records prevent disputes and help you budget accurately for the future.
How to Write to an Assignor
First Contact Template
Hello, my name is [Your Name]. I organize [Team/League/Tournament Name] in [City/Province]. We need officials for the following games at [Arena Name] on [Dates and Times], level [Age/Division], using [2 or 3] officials per game. Could you please let me know your availability, rates, and payment method? My cell is [Number]. Thank you.
Game Details Example
Here are the details for Saturday: Rink A, 10:30 AM, U13 non-checking, two officials. Rink A, 12:00 PM, U15 checking, three officials. Rink B, 1:30 PM, U11, one official. Flood every two hours. Please confirm assignments and rates. Contact at rink: [Name, Phone].
Feedback Example
Thank you for covering our tournament. Overall things went smoothly. One note from the U18 semifinal: benches were very heated, and extra reminders about language would help. We appreciate your crew’s control in the third period. Please share our thanks with the officials.
Timeline Guide for a Tournament
Four to Six Weeks Before
Confirm dates, number of teams, and ice slots. Contact your assignor with your plan and ask about estimated crews and costs. If your event needs a supervisor or standby official, request that now. Ask about any local clinics or upgrading weekends that might affect availability.
Two to Three Weeks Before
Send your draft schedule with exact times and rinks. Share special rules, tie-breakers, and discipline procedures. Ask for a deadline to finalize crews. Confirm payment method and how to handle last-minute changes or overtime. If your event is in a bilingual area, confirm language needs for announcements and communication.
One Week Before
Receive the final crew list. Create a contact sheet for your event staff. Prepare payment envelopes or set up e-transfers with notes that match game numbers. Share parking instructions, dressing room access rules, and check-in procedures. Confirm the name of the on-site officiating lead if one is assigned.
Event Day
Welcome officials when they arrive. Review any last changes calmly. Keep schedules, arena maps, and phone numbers at the desk. Provide water and snacks if you can. Pay officials on time. If issues arise, speak with the assignor or the officiating lead, not directly to individual officials in front of teams or spectators.
After the Event
Send a thank-you note to the assignor and officials. Share any constructive feedback and highlight what went well. Save your records and contacts for next season. A simple thank you goes a long way toward building a dependable network.
Finding Referees in Specific Provinces and Regions
Ontario and Quebec
In Ontario and Quebec, there are large officiating groups and many rinks. Start with Hockey Ontario or Hockey Quebec and use their officiating pages to find contacts. In urban areas, book earlier during busy months. In bilingual communities, sharing materials in both English and French can help communication.
Western Provinces
In British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, contact the provincial branch first, then your local minor hockey association. In some regions, Junior and AAA leagues have their own assignors. Rural areas may require mileage. Weather can affect travel, so keep a backup plan for winter weekends.
Atlantic Canada and the North
In New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, the officiating communities are close-knit. A single assignor may handle a wide area, so book early. In northern territories, coordinate well in advance and plan around travel schedules and seasonal tournaments. Ask about sanctioning and insurance for any independent events.
Working With Coaches, Parents, and Players
Set the Tone
Communicate that abuse of officials is not acceptable. Make this clear to coaches and team managers at the start of the season or event. Consistent expectations make it easier for officials to manage the game and for teams to focus on playing.
Brief the Benches
Before the first game of a tournament, share any rule differences with coaches. If your event has a strict curfew or minor modifications, tell the benches so referees do not need to explain during play. Quick, calm explanations prevent confusion later.
Protect Young Officials
Many new officials start at a young age. Support them with clear rules for spectator behavior and coach conduct. If a new official is on a tough game, consider adding a mentor or a supervisor who can watch and advise between periods. This improves calls and confidence.
What to Do If You Cannot Find Referees
Adjust Game Format
If supply is tight, consider shorter games, fewer rinks at once, or switching to a two-official system where appropriate. Discuss any changes with the assignor to keep safety standards. You can also reschedule lower-priority games to free officials for critical matchups.
Share Resources With Neighbouring Associations
Coordinate with nearby towns or leagues. Sometimes a shared pool of officials can cover a full weekend if everyone communicates. Offer to swap ice times or stagger start times to stretch the available crews.
Train New Officials
If you are a club leader, ask your provincial branch how to host a clinic. Encouraging players, alumni, and parents to take the course builds a local pipeline. Offering mentorship and respecting officials keeps them in the program longer and reduces shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book referees?
As early as you can. For regular season games, confirm when you book ice. For tournaments, contact the assignor as soon as you set dates, and finalize crews at least two weeks out if possible.
Can I hire referees directly without an assignor?
Sometimes, but it is better to use the official assignor. The assignor ensures proper certification, fair opportunities for officials, and insurance coverage. If you hire directly, you risk schedule conflicts and missed compliance requirements.
What if a referee does not show up?
Call the assignor immediately. They may have a standby official or someone nearby. If you must start short-staffed, adjust format for safety until a replacement arrives. Keep calm and communicate updates to teams.
How do I handle payment?
Follow the assignor’s instructions. Many prefer e-transfer or cash envelopes. Always keep records of who was paid and for which game. For tournaments, set payment windows to avoid delays after late games.
Do I need special referees for checking divisions?
Yes, higher-contact games should have experienced officials. Tell the assignor the exact division and rule set so they can assign appropriate crews who are comfortable managing physical play safely.
Are there bilingual officials?
Yes, especially in Quebec and parts of Ontario and New Brunswick. If you need bilingual crews, ask for them early so the assignor can plan accordingly.
Practical Tips for Smooth Game Days
Be Clear and Organized
Have printed schedules at the rink. Label dressing rooms for officials. Share arena rules, flood times, and where to go in an emergency. Small details remove stress and let officials focus on the game.
Keep Communication Lines Open
Designate one person as the officiating contact during your event. Give their number to the assignor and the officials. Quick answers to small questions prevent delays and frustration.
Care for the Crew
Offer water, snacks, and a quiet place to rest between games. If your event runs late, check that officials can get home safely. Respect for their time and comfort helps performance and retention.
Resources to Start Your Search
National and Provincial Bodies
Begin with Hockey Canada and your provincial branch’s officiating page. Search for phrases like “Hockey Ontario officials,” “BC Hockey officiating,” or “Hockey Alberta referees.” These pages often list clinics, policies, and contacts.
Local Associations and Arenas
Ask your local minor hockey association for their Referee-in-Chief. Arena front desks can point you to the assignor or the league that books most of the rink’s officials. If you manage adult rec, ask the arena about the league assignor they usually work with.
Scheduling Platforms
Find out if your area uses Ref Centre or Horizon Web Ref. If so, request access or instructions from the assignor. Submit games with full details and follow the platform’s payment and confirmation steps.
Introduction to Becoming a Referee Yourself
How to Start
If you are short on officials and love the game, consider becoming a referee. Contact your provincial branch’s officiating program about clinics. You will complete online modules, attend an in-person session, and learn rules and positioning. Many clinics run before the season starts.
Why It Helps Your Community
New officials strengthen your local hockey scene. Players and parents who understand the rules can help reduce tension and make the game safer. Even part-time officiating can ease shortages and keep the schedule running.
Putting It All Together
A Simple Plan
Start with your provincial branch and local association to find the assignor. Share clear details, book early, confirm rates, and keep written records. For tournaments, plan backups and communicate rules well. Treat officials with respect, pay on time, and provide calm, constructive feedback through the assignor.
Long-Term Success
Build relationships. When you work with assignors and officials season after season, they learn your standards and you learn their needs. This trust saves time, improves game quality, and helps everyone enjoy the sport. Your rink becomes known as a good place to work and play.
Conclusion
Confidence in the Process
Finding hockey referees in Canada is very achievable when you know where to look and what to ask. Use the structure already in place: provincial branches, local associations, and assignors who match certified officials to the right games. Plan early, communicate clearly, and respect the role officials play in safety and fairness.
Next Steps You Can Take Today
Identify your provincial branch’s officiating page. Find your local association’s Referee-in-Chief. Prepare your game details and send a short, complete message to the assignor. Confirm rates, payment, and rules. With these simple steps, you will secure qualified referees and set your season or event up for smooth, safe, and enjoyable hockey.