OFFICIALS

In order to become a certified team handball referee in Manitoba, you must take the beginners clinic which is usually offered annually by the WTHL. However, this depends on level of interest and need. You will need to be observed and be evaluated to begin at level C.

From the 2023/24 referee retention/incentive program, see the following pay scale for the 2024/25 season:

Level A: $33 per game

Level B: $30 per game

Level C: $28 per game

Referees are usually paid three times in a given season. Once in December (1st half), once in March (2nd half), and a third time in June if you ref in the high school league. If there is a pre-season tournament, pay may be lumped in with the first half.

I. You must referee 10 games (high school or adult league counts) 

II. Attend a mandatory recertification clinic every 2 years. If this is not met, you may drop down level(s) 

III. Receive positive evaluation(s), This usually follows recertification but is also for new referees or when there are concerns with performance. Ideally, all referees should be evaluated annually.

Last year, the WTHL introduced a 4 part plan to encourage new referees to join as well as retain our current referees.

I. Increased pay 

II. All current referees received a new referee jersey paid for by the WTHL.
III. All new referees can be reimbursed for the cost of 2 referee jerseys, cards, and a whistle. This will be honoured after a new referee has completed 4 games. 

IV. The WTHL made a commitment to facilitate getting all referees up to date on recertification and evaluations. This has mostly been achieved as a recertification clinic was recently hosted at the end of November 2024.

If you are interested in getting educated in the fine art of officiating, you should contact Ward Hrabi at whrabi@shaw.ca