Illinois Hockey Officials Association (IHOA)

Each year, AHAI approves one referee association to represent and manage officials in Illinois. This approval is finalized by August 30 of each fiscal year. All referees and linesmen must register with both USA Hockey and AHAI through the approved association. Officials are also required to wear the current USA Hockey Officials crest while working games.

The Illinois Hockey Officials Association (IHOA) is AHAI’s current designated organization for registering, training, and evaluating officials. Its mission is to improve the quality of amateur hockey officiating, ensure consistent rule interpretation, strengthen communication between officials and coaches, and uphold high standards of conduct. IHOA also provides education, resources, and a forum for discussion on hockey rules and officiating practices.

Referees and linesmen must complete registration with USA Hockey and AHAI through IHOA each year. Only officials who are properly registered and wearing the USA Hockey Officials crest are eligible to officiate games between USA Hockey/AHAI registered teams. Teams that are not registered with USA Hockey/AHAI may not use IHOA officials.

The AHAI Board of Directors appoints a Supervisor of Officials to oversee the registration, evaluation, and conduct standards of referees across Illinois. The Supervisor also serves as liaison between AHAI, USA Hockey’s Central District, IHOA, and Member Organizations. In addition, the Supervisor communicates rule interpretations, coordinates referee assignments for AHAI-sponsored tournaments, and fulfills other duties as directed by AHAI leadership.

For training, registration, and officiating resources, visit the Illinois Hockey Officials Association website. You can also learn more about the IHOA Board of Directors.

The Officiating Committee works in close collaboration with the Illinois Hockey Officials Association (IHOA) to oversee all aspects of on-ice officiating in Illinois.