On-Ice Officials:  Referees & Linespeople

On-Ice Officials — including Referees and Linespeople — are essential to maintaining the fairness, flow, and safety of the game. They work together to apply the rules of hockey and ensure every game is played with integrity.

All Hockey Manitoba On-Ice Officials must register and recertify annually.

Officiating Systems

Games may use different officiating systems depending on level of play:

  • 2-Official System: Two Referees
  • 3-Official System: One Referee, Two Linespeople
  • 4-Official System: Two Referees, Two Linespeople

Each system requires teamwork, communication, and a strong knowledge of the rules.

Getting Started: New Officials (All Ages)

New officials must complete the Hockey University – Officiating 1/2 online course before registering for a clinic.

​ Step-by-Step:

  • Complete Hockey University – Officiating 1/2

                     Available through the Hockey Canada Registry (HCR 3.0)

                     Navigate to: Register for Clinics > Hockey Manitoba > HU-ONLINE

  • Register for an Officiating Clinic

Clinics are posted in August/September

  • Visit hockeymanitoba.ca
  • Go to Officials > Clinics to view and register
  • You may attend any clinic offered in Manitoba
  • All pre-requisites (including online HU course) must be completed before registering

Registration Requirements (All Officials)

  • All On-Ice Officials must be registered and certified annually through Hockey Canada, under Hockey Manitoba
  • Choose the appropriate clinic level based on your experience
  • Keep your profile and credentials updated through HCR 3.0

Game Assignments

Once certified:

  • Contact your Referee-in-Chief:   Send confirmation that you’ve completed and passed your clinic
  • Game Assignment Invitation:  New officials will receive an invite to Goalline, the scheduling system
  • Availability:  Game assignments are based on your availability in Goalline.  It is your responsibility to keep availability up to date to receive assignments

Ready to Step on the Ice?

Start your officiating journey today — gain valuable skills, give back to the game, and become part of a close-knit hockey community.

Officiating Levels

Hockey Canada & Hockey Manitoba Pathway

The Hockey Canada Officiating Pathway is the national standard for developing and advancing officials across the country. It provides structured progression for officials from grassroots hockey to elite levels.

? Development Pathway Overview

Officiating Levels:

  • Level 1
  • Level 2
  • Level 3
  • Member High Performance
  • National High Performance

Officials can progress through these levels with dedication, mentorship, and a commitment to learning, all while helping ensure the game remains safe, fair, and fun.

? Hockey Canada Game Streams

Hockey is divided into five primary streams, each with its own officiating focus:

  • Introduction
  • Recreational
  • Competitive
  • High Performance
  • Adult Recreational

Officials may work in multiple streams throughout their careers depending on their interests and experience level.

✅ Certification Levels & Requirements

LEVEL 1 – Getting Started

The entry point into officiating for the Introduction and Recreational streams.

Requirements:

  • Must be 12 years old by December 31 of the current season
  • Must complete Hockey University – Officiating (HU) online
  • Purchase required officiating equipment (outlined in HU)
  • Attend a Level 1 Clinic and on-ice session
  • Pass the exam

⚠️ Important: If the mandatory in-person clinic is not completed by December 1, certification will not be granted for the season.

LEVEL 2 – Advancing Your Skills

Designed for officials working in the lower levels of Competitive hockey. Focuses on building rule knowledge and procedural confidence.

Requirements:

  • Must be 15 years old by December 31 of the current season OR have 2 years of experience at Level 1 and be approved by the Regional Officiating Coordinator
  • Must complete Hockey University – Officiating (HU) prior to registration
  • Attend a Level 2 Clinic and on-ice session
  • Pass the exam

⚠️ Clinic deadline: Must be completed by December 1 to be certified.

LEVEL 3 – Competitive & High Performance Prep

Prepares officials for higher levels of Competitive and early High-Performance hockey. Emphasizes game management, rule mastery, and leadership.

Requirements:

  • Must be 17 years old by December 31 of the current season
  • Must have the recommendation of your Referee-in-Chief
  • Certified in Respect in Sport for Activity Leaders
  • Complete the Level 3 Online Course
  • Pass the exam (sent by email after registration)

MEMBER & NATIONAL HIGH PERFORMANCE

Designed for officials pursuing roles at the highest levels of hockey, including provincial, national, and international competition.

➡️ For more information on these programs, visit
www.hockeymanitoba.ca > Officials > Development Pathway

? Submitting a Hockey Winnipeg Official’s Report

Have an incident or situation to report?

➡️ Submit your report through the Hockey Winnipeg Official's Report Form