Referee-in-Chief Eddie™ · Lesson 50 of 50
Who this lesson helps: Veteran officials considering their next role.
Experienced referee contribution can continue through mentoring, instruction, assessment, or program leadership. A change in on-ice availability does not erase useful knowledge. The next role should match the person’s current qualifications and the program’s needs.
A Situation You May Recognize
A veteran reduces game assignments and assumes their involvement must end. An association needs instructors but has not asked about their interest. A conversation could identify an appropriate role with clear responsibilities.
Experienced referee contribution: Practical Steps
Discuss mentoring or supervisory opportunities with officiating leadership. Confirm the training and qualifications for that role. Choose a manageable commitment, keep rule knowledge current, and learn the program’s assessment and reporting standards.
Avoid This Common Trap
Do not assume past experience automatically qualifies someone for every teaching or leadership position. Effective instruction also requires listening and clear feedback. Avoid presenting personal habits as official procedure without verification.
Your Next Development Step
Choose one topic you can help a beginner understand. Explain it using the current references, then ask a qualified instructor to review your approach. This tests both knowledge and teaching clarity.
A Short Video Script for Eddie
Proposed spoken script for this lesson; the matching video has not yet been recorded.
Your experience can help the next generation. Explore mentoring, instruction, or assessment through the right program. Keep your knowledge current and teach clearly. Staying involved can mean helping someone else develop.
Use the Right Rules for Your Assignment
This is original development guidance from The Hockey Resource™. Confirm requirements with your Referee-in-Chief or assignor. Game rules, certification, reporting, and permitted procedures depend on the governing body and competition; the age of an official is separate from the age division of the Players.
For Canadian assignments, use the Hockey Canada officiating resources and your Member’s instructions. For USA Hockey assignments, consult the official rules and casebook. These resources support verification; THR lessons do not replace required training.
Continue with Eddie’s advice for new Hockey referees. Bring one question from this lesson to a qualified mentor and agree on one action for your next assignment.
DISAGREE WITH THE CALL. RESPECT THE PERSON.
The Hockey Resource™ · WE MAKE BETTER HOCKEY PEOPLE.™
