Off-Ice Coaches
Continual learning and improvement are critical to the success of all officials. Off-ice coaches provide valuable feedback and guidance during games to help officials grow. New officials will receive off-ice coaching within their first 10 games to support their ongoing skill development.
Pre-Game Support
Off-Ice Coaches will meet with officials before their games. During the pregame conversations, the off-ice coach will inquire about what the official is working on or areas of the game they want feedback on.
Off-Ice Observation
Off-Ice coaches will observe the game and take notes of areas for growth and improvement. Coaches will also highlight areas where officials are excelling and continue to show growth.
Post-Game Support
Off-Ice coaches will provide reflection points after the game and share their notes with the official. The will also be a resource for the official to continue their growth in future games.
Requirements
Current Registration
Off-Ice Coaches must be a completely registered USA Hockey Level 3 or 4 Official or a Non-Skating Affiliate. They must also be a current member of DCHOA
Required Training
DCHOA will provide Off-Ice coaches with training on how to effectively communicate with officials, provide coaching advice and sessions to collaboratively discuss points of emphasis.
Assigning
Availability
Off-Ice Coaches will be asked for availability outside of the regular assigning process.
Payment
Off-Ice coaches will be paid for the games that they provide off-ice coaching. It is an expectation for payment that a report is submitted to the RIC and Scheduler after the game.
Becoming an Off-Ice Coach
Each season, qualified officials need to fill out an application to become a Off-Ice Coach