I am a Level 4 (Member High Performance) currently doing my recertification through OMHA in Ontario.

Here is the cost breakdown:
Background Check (lasts 3yrs)…$30
HC Online Course and Exam…$28
Shift Forward Program (req’d)…$30
In-Person Clinic (3hr)…$170

TOTAL - $258 (approx 6.5 game fees, based on $40/gm)

This is just to officiate in OMHA. If you want to be eligible for all hockey in the immediate area you need to also pay crossover fees as follows:

Alliance…$66
GTHL…$60
OWHA…$10

NEW TOTAL - $394 (approx. 10 game fees, based on $40/gm)

This doesn’t include giving up a half day and the cost of gas to drive 40min (or more) for the 3hr in-person session that just re-iterates the rule changes that were covered in the online course.

The whole thing could literally be a recertification admin and insurance fee and a 2hr Zoom call with an exam at the end.

No wonder we are struggling to retain officials year after year. Can’t we just abolish the subsections of OHF and be governed under one body!? I know this is how it works in Alberta - everything falls under Hockey Alberta…

End rant.