We are always welcoming new members! If you are interested in officiating tackle football in the Hamilton region, please fill out the information below or contact us at hfoarecruitment@gmail.com.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need previous football or officiating experience to become an official?
No, you don't need any previous officiating or football experience to become an official. We will provide all the training necessary to help you succeed on the field.
Does it cost anything up-front to become an official?
The only up-front cost for becoming an HFOA official is the required equipment/uniform (~$150) which can be purchased after completing the Level 1 certification clinic. The cost of the Level 1 certification clinic will be completely covered by the HFOA.
What is the Level 1 Certification process?
The Level 1 Certification is required for all tackle football officials in Canada to officiate. To receive your Level 1 certification, you will participate in a Level 1 clinic run by us or a neighbouring association. This course will give you an in-depth understanding of the Canadian amateur tackle football rules and your roles and responsibilities as an official. Following the classroom portion, you and a mentor HFOA official will attend a football game to shadow on-field officials. Mentor officials then attend your first games to allow the learning process to continue and guide you through this new role.
I've filled out the form above, what are the next steps?
After you've filled out the form above, we will send you an email from hfoarecruitment@gmail.com with information regarding the Level 1 certification course. After you've completed the Level 1 certification course, we will get you on the field to shadow a crew before working with a mentor to assist you in your first few games.
Does football only run in the Fall?
No, tackle football runs almost year-round in Hamilton. Starting in April, the public high school junior (U16) season begins and runs til June. The Ontario Summer Football League (OSFL) and the Ontario Women's Football League (OWFL) start in May and run til August. In August, the Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) and the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) seasons begin and run til November. The public and catholic high school seasons and the Ontario Fall Football League (OFFL) begin in September and run til November. Lastly, the Canadian Football League (CFL) runs from May until November.
How old do I need to be to officiate?
You must be at least 16 years old to officiate tackle football.
What equipment do I need and how do I get it?
Officials will need a black hat, referee striped shirt, black pants, a whistle, and a flag. This uniform and equipment can be found at Fox 40 International located in Hamilton, but we will assist you in this process.
Does the HFOA officiate flag football?
No, at this time, the HFOA does not officiate flag football in the city of Hamilton.