On-Ice Official’s Code of Conduct
- Act in a professional and businesslike manner at all times and take your role seriously.
- Strive to provide a safe and sportsmanlike environment in which players can properly display their hockey skills.
- Know all playing rules, their interpretations and their proper application.
- Remember that officials are teachers. Set a good example.
- Make your calls with quiet confidence; never with arrogance.
- Manage and help to control games in cooperation with the coaches to provide a positive and safe experience for all participants.
- Violence must never be tolerated.
- Be fair and impartial at all times.
- Answer all reasonable questions and requests.
- Adopt a “zero tolerance” attitude toward verbal or physical abuse.
- Never use foul or vulgar language when speaking with a player, coach or parent.
- Use honesty and integrity when answering questions.
- Admit your mistakes when you make them.
- Never openly criticize a coach, player or fellow official.
- Keep your emotions under control.
- Use only USA Hockey-approved officiating techniques and policies.
- Maintain your health through a physical conditioning program.
- Dedicate yourself to personal improvement and maintenance of officiating skills.
- Respect your supervisor and his/her critique of your performance.