Officiating Tips

•  Officials – are stationary when making penalty calls
•  Don't use the one finger point in any of your signals
•  When play is on the opposite side, move away from the boards and closer towards the center of the floor to get a better view of the play
•  Signals should be relaxed, not robotic. A fluid motion is required
•  Watch to ensure facial expressions and signals on penalties are not over animated
•  Indicate player receiving penalty, don't point to box
•  Use CLA zone positioning procedures consistently
•  All signals are made with the hand closed and the thumb in tight. Never spread fingers or stick out thumb
•  Blow whistle consistently and for all to hear
•  Don't throw arms up on stoppages
•  Do not cross your arms when players come to talk to you
•  Be prepared to stop at penalty box with signal if timekeepers are not familiar with the game, or if you have called multiple  penalties
•  Never lean on boards, lean on your knees, or have your hands in your pockets
•  Work on crisp, clear signals
•  Eliminate unnecessary gestures!
•  Official's should watch for face-off violators and use verbal warnings from time to time
•  Stand tall. Avoid leaning over to make calls.
•  Don't spend excessive time talking or explaining calls or situations. Keep the game going
•  Relax on penalty calls and don't look away too soon
•  Avoid a tendency to "over run" the play
•  Praise your fellow officials on the floor, but don't be too obvious
•  Only put your whistle to your mouth when you are ready to blow it
•  Eliminate cocky bounce during stride
•  Always watch other official's work to gain tips for your use