Description:

The program will specifically target officials entering their 1st or 2nd year of officiating. Thus, the program will be targeted to Novice hockey (level 3 and lower) and lower level atom hockey as this is the level in which those officials begin. Officials at this level are targeted because at this level the players, parents, and coaches are beginning to have certain expectations of the officials and, consequently when those officials fail to meet those expectations, problems arise in terms of abuse and shattered confidence, leading to our 63% loss of these targeted officials every year.

It is our goal to shadow these officials at least twice in their first season.

The shadow will work with each official for one period providing them tips and suggestions on the proper positioning and procedures. The shadow will then spend the 3rd period in the stands writing an evaluation for the officials to take home with them. At the shadow's discretion he/she may spend the entire game on the ice or spend more time with one official as their abilities dictate. They will however allow the shadowee to make mistakes and will not be calling penalties. If absolutely necessary the shadow does have the power to assess any penalty as covered in the Hockey Canada Rulebook. The shadow will not engage in discussions with the coaches regarding the game except at the games conclusion.

Goals:

• Target 1st and 2nd year officials so as to retain them in the officiating program.
• Bestow confidence to those officials being shadowed.
• Offer guidance in regards to proper positioning on the ice and proper procedures (i.e. penalties, offsides, icings, etc…)
• Convey to the players, coaches, and parents that these young officials are in a learning environment and that efforts are being made to provide them with quality officiating at all levels.
• Provide an avenue for senior officials to pass on their experience to younger officials.

How do I become involved?

If you would like to become a shadow please contact me at shadow@northzone.ab.ca, or contact your local RIC. If you would like to be shadowed ask you assignor and they can get someone to come out to shadow you.