NAHL and TAHA Partner to Host Free Try Officiating Program

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) is proud to bring its Try Officiating program to the Children’s Health StarCenter in Farmers Branch, Texas, on July 20, 2025.

This free, half-day event is designed for current and former hockey players aged 18 and older who are new to officiating. It offers a unique, no-cost opportunity to explore officiating in a supportive, low-pressure environment, no prior certification or financial commitment required.

The Try Officiating program is built around three core components: education, exposure, and experience. During the classroom sessions, participants will be educated on the fundamentals of officiating, explore various career paths, and discover the personal and professional benefits of becoming a hockey official.

They will also be exposed to experienced officials serving as Officiating Coaches, many of whom have officiated at levels ranging from local youth leagues to professional and international play.

The on-ice session introduces key officiating skills and positioning. In a controlled scrimmage, participants will rotate between the roles of Referee and Linesperson, gaining hands-on experience while being shadowed in real time by seasoned Officiating Coaches.

Kendall Hanley, NAHL Manager of Officiating, shared her personal connection to the event:

“Coming back to where my officiating journey started seventeen years ago is truly special, especially as I have the chance to work alongside the hockey community that helped shape who I am today. Working alongside USA Hockey affiliates like the Texas Amateur Hockey Association (TAHA) is essential to strengthening recruitment and development efforts at every level of officiating. Together, we’re able to create accessible, low-pressure pathways for individuals to explore officiating without the initial financial commitment. Programs like Try Officiating allow us to reach current and former players who are new to officiating or considering a return, and help them take that first step forward with confidence and support.”

Melanie Gotsdiner, USA Hockey Affiliate Referee-in-Chief for Texas and Oklahoma, emphasized the value of the NAHL partnership:

“The Try Officiating program offers a valuable opportunity for individuals across Texas and Oklahoma, not just those in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, to explore officiating in a hands-on, supportive setting. Through our partnership with the NAHL, we’re able to provide a meaningful introduction grounded in education, exposure, and experience. This approach helps participants determine whether officiating is the right fit for them. For those ready to move forward, we have a clear support system in place to guide them through the registration process with USA Hockey and connect them with their local officiating community, ensuring they take the next steps in a well-supported and encouraging environment.”

The NAHL proudly recognizes Children’s Health StarCenter and the TAHA as key partners in making this event possible. Their commitment to growing the sport and supporting the next generation of hockey officials is invaluable.

This program serves as a vital first step for anyone exploring a rewarding career in officiating, starting at the youth level, with the potential to grow into junior, collegiate, professional, or even international opportunities. With expert coaching, real-game experience, and no financial barrier, it’s a rare chance to see the game from a new perspective, and give back to the sport in a meaningful way.

The event will run from 8:45 AM to 1:15 PM on Sunday, July 20, 2025. Applications are open through July 4, 2025, at 11:59 PM CT, and accepted participants will be notified by July 11. Lunch will be provided by TAHA.

For more information and to apply, visit the official NAHL Try Officiating page [here].