Become an Official
If you have a passion for football and are looking for a new and exciting way to get involved in the sport, join our team! Football officiating is a unique and greatly rewarding way for you to contribute to the game for the betterment of the sport and its participants.
As an official, you will serve a critical role in helping to promote the ideals of sportsmanship and fair play, which form the foundation of any athletic contest. Our nationally certified clinicians will provide you with all the training necessary to get started on the field and the knowledge required to advance to the highest levels of officiating in Canada.
Football Canada Referee Services and Resources
https://footballcanada.com/development/officials/
Officiating FAQ
- Who is the MFOA looking for?
To become an official with the MFOA you must be 18 years or older. As an association, we are looking for individuals who are willing to dedicate themselves to learning the rules and mechanics and to continually improve their abilities on the field. - How much does it cost to become an official?
- At the present time the MFOA has entered into a partner agreement with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Football Club. The Bombers are graciously donating the purchase of refereeing equipment to 1st year officials! No need to outlay any costs as a new officials. A great way to start your career! Anything other than the basics are provided. Any other equipment that is seen as not absolutely necessary can be ordered through our Member-at-Large responsible for equipment orders.
- What leagues are officiated by the MFOA?
The MFOA officiates many leagues throughout Manitoba including the Winnipeg High School Football League, the Manitoba Major Junior Football League, Canadian Junior Football League, USports Football, and the Western Women's Canadian Football League. - When are games played?
Games take place primarily on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. - Do I have to be available each night?
No. You decide which days and times you are available. You will be assigned to games based on your availability. However, the more you are available, the more games you get and the more money you make. - How does the MFOA pay their officials?
MFOA officials are paid a fee per game set prior to every season by the MFOA Executive. The fee varies depending on the level of football. Officials are paid in December at our Pay Night social event. - What else do I need to do?
Once you have finished your Level 1 clinic you need to complete a take-home open-book test of 40 questions. You also need to complete the Sport Manitoba Respect in Sport online course. There is no charge for the course and it can be found on the Sport Manitoba web site. - What is the MFOA Mentorship Program?
After you have committed to the MFOA, you will be assigned a mentor who is an experienced official. He or she will assist you in successfully completing your first two seasons. - What can I expect during my first year?
During your first year you will be working the sideline positions of Line Judge and Downs Judge. You will receive assignments based on your availability. Game day observers will meet with you to discuss your development. The MFOA has meetings every 2 weeks during the season where we review rules and discuss interesting plays which have occurred. - What is my next step?
Contact our VP of Recruitment and Training, Garrett Rusnack, at mfoarecruiting@gmail.com. He will get back to you with more information.