Referee-in-Chief Eddie™ · Lesson 30 of 50
Who this lesson helps: Team managers and Coaches at grassroots games.
Welcoming new referees can be practical and professional. Clear directions, respectful introductions, and prepared Team staff reduce avoidable uncertainty. None of these gestures requires favorable calls or familiarity that compromises impartiality.
A Situation You May Recognize
A first-year official arrives and cannot find the designated officials’ room. Team staff are nearby but dismiss the question. A simple direction would help the official prepare without interfering with the game.
Welcoming new referees: Practical Steps
Have venue directions available, ensure required Team information is ready, and identify the permitted spokesperson. Model respectful language. Let the association manage mentoring rather than turning the bench into an unofficial evaluation panel.
Avoid This Common Trap
Do not offer gifts or favors linked to officiating decisions. Support means providing a professional environment, not asking for special treatment. The same courtesy should extend to every crew regardless of the final score.
Your Next Development Step
Ask your Team manager what a visiting official needs to know on arrival. Check whether that information is accurate and easy to obtain. Then make it part of your ordinary game preparation.
A Short Video Script for Eddie
Proposed spoken script for this lesson; the matching video has not yet been recorded.
A welcoming rink needs simple professional habits. Give clear directions, have Team information ready, and use respectful language. Help officials prepare, then let them do their job impartially.
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.™
