7 – REFEREE-IN-CHIEF™ EDDIE – 5 Clear Ways to Improve Referee Sightlines

Referee-in-Chief Eddie™ · 

Who this lesson helps: Officials refining viewing angles.

Referee sightlines affect what information reaches you before a decision. Being nearby does not guarantee a clear view when bodies or the boards block the action. A useful angle must also respect your assigned mechanics.

A Situation You May Recognize

You reach a play quickly but see it directly behind a Player’s body. Afterward, you realize a small approved adjustment could have opened the view. Speed brought you close; positioning would have brought clarity.

Referee sightlines: Practical Steps

Have an instructor review your angles through recurring game situations. Practice approved adjustments while maintaining safe movement and coverage. Discuss which obstructions you can anticipate and which require partner information through permitted consultation.

Avoid This Common Trap

Do not claim certainty about details you could not see. Equally, avoid moving randomly in search of a better view and creating a hazard. Angle changes should be controlled and consistent with the officiating system.

Your Next Development Step

Choose one recurring obstruction and review it with a mentor. Identify an earlier movement cue. Check the next assignment to see whether that adjustment improves the information available.

A Short Video Script for Eddie

Proposed spoken script for this lesson; the matching video has not yet been recorded.

Being close does not always mean seeing clearly. Learn the approved angle adjustments and move under control. A better sightline gives your decision better information.

Use the Right Rules for Your Assignment

This is original development guidance from The Hockey Resource™. Confirm requirements with your Referee-in-Chief or assignor. Game rules, certification, reporting, and permitted procedures depend on the governing body and competition; the age of an official is separate from the age division of the Players.

For Canadian assignments, use the Hockey Canada officiating resources and your Member’s instructions. For USA Hockey assignments, consult the official rules and casebook. These resources support verification; THR lessons do not replace required training.

Continue with Eddie’s advice for new Hockey referees. Bring one question from this lesson to a qualified mentor and agree on one action for your next assignment.

DISAGREE WITH THE CALL. RESPECT THE PERSON.

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