Officials are the third team on the ice, without whom the game would not be possible. It is an official’s responsibility to ensure that the rules of hockey are enforced, and that the game is played fairly. Each year, Hockey Manitoba proudly certifies over 1,600+ officials across the province.
Hockey Manitoba officiating clinics are presented annually between September and the end of November. Each official must attend an officiating clinic each year in order to re-certify for the upcoming season.
There are six levels in the Hockey Canada Officiating Program (HCOP), which are the foundation for the training and development of officials. The program offers clinics for officials at all levels from the youngest age groups and divisions of minor hockey through to the top levels of hockey in Canada, and international competition.
OFFICIALS | 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 |
Male | 1,472 | 1,525 | 1,532 | 1,586 | 1,565 |
Female | 157 | 157 | 137 | 150 | 153 |
TOTAL | 1,629 | 1,682 | 1,669 | 1,736 | 1,718 |