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Here are my comments-
Remedy #1: Recruiting officials is a great idea. I know some guys that actively do this, but many more of us need to be. As stated, reffing is a great gig for high school / college age kids. Their skating will improve through more ice time, and they can make a lot more dough in less time than they would sacking groceries or manning the deep fryer.
Remedy #2: Having coaches and players ref two games a season is a great idea in theory. I believe it is just too impractical for it to ever happen.
Remedy #3: I am fortunate enough to be a member of an outstanding officials association. We have guys of all ability levels, from older guys that work mainly mite / squirt levels all the way up through NCAA Division I, and all levels in between. We have enough eyes and ears in our home association to help guys reach their goals and to take officiating as far as their ability / effort levels take them.
For me to register with USA Hockey to officiate this season, as a Level 3 official, the cost is $80. A ‘local affiliation’ fee of $10 is tacked on. I also need to register as a coach. $40 to sign up, $1 affiliation fee, plus I believe $10 for modules.
I’m $141 in before I even hit the ice this fall. To volunteer my time. Seems a bit excessive to me. I would like to see USAH make some sort of package deal for coaches and officials.
I can’t speak to the coaches modules, but the officiating modules took several hours to complete last season. Absolutely ridiculous, and I hope USAH has streamlined the process for this season.
In summary, here are my registration requirements to coach and officiate in USA Hockey for the upcoming season:
Fees: $141
Attend all-day officiating seminar
Attend all-day coaches seminar
Safe-sport training (est. 1 hour)
Officials modules (est. 6 hours)
Coaching modules (?)
And USA Hockey wonders why they are constantly in need of coaches and officials?
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