Officiating Service Awards Program

New starting in the 2026/27 season, Hockey Canada looks to recognize officials who have dedicated years to serving the game.

The Officiating Service Awards Program honours officials who have committed 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, and 50 years to the Hockey Canada Officiating Program.

Each milestone includes a physical award item (a pin or commemorative piece) along with a milestone‑specific recognition letter.

The launch of this program marks an important step in building a culture where officials feel seen, valued, and supported for the essential role they play in communities from coast to coast to coast.

How the Program Works

1. Eligibility

For the 2026/27 season, any registered official or officiating coach is invited to apply for the most recent milestone they have achieved. Applicants must be registered with an active Hockey Canada Officiating Qualification to be eligible to receive an award.

2. Application

Officials must apply for their most recent milestone.

3. Verification

Member Branches and Hockey Canada will validate years of service to approve the award.

4. Distribution

10 and 15 year awards will be mailed directly to the individual.

20+ year awards will be sent to branches for local presentation.

For more information please see the frequently asked questions below.

To apply, click HERE.

FAQs

How are years of service counted?

Years of service are counted cumulatively, regardless of Member Branch movement.

Example: An official who refereed for 5 years, took some time off, and returned to referee for another 5 years, they would be eligible for a 10 year service award.

Can an official receive multiple awards?

For the 2026/27 season, officials will receive only their highest milestone, not multiple awards.

Example: An official with 22 years of service may apply for the 20 year award only, not the 10 and 15 year awards.

Can officials receive retroactive awards?

After the 2026/27 season, retroactive awards may be considered on a case by case basis.

What does the annual process look like after the 2026/27 season?

After the 2026/27 season, officials must apply in the season they reach the milestone. If an official does not apply in the season they reach the milestone, they forfeit that service award and must wait for the next one.

Example: An official reaches 10 years of service but does not apply. They will next be eligible at 15 years of service, not retroactively at 10.

Can Member Branches or Associations recognize officials who retire between milestones?

Yes. Member Branches are encouraged to celebrate retiring officials to fill the gaps between milestones.

What if an official isn’t active on the ice but is active as an officiating leader in their community?

On‑ice activity is not required to receive a service award. Officials who are active as leaders, mentors, officiating coaches, or administrators within their officiating community remain eligible so long as they have registered and held an officiating qualification during their counted years of service.

Why these milestone years?

They capture the officials who form the core of the HCOP program and the dedicated few who stay involved for decades.

When will I receive my service awards?

Officials receiving a service award will receive their award at the conclusion of the season in which they applied.