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.
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. To continually improve their abilities on the field.
- How much does it cost to become and official? Registration and the Level 1 FCOCP certification cost $60.00. After your Level 1 certification, you must purchase a uniform which can cost up to $200.00. Most of our officials purchase their uniform from Honig's or World of Sports.
- What leagues are officiated by the MFOA? The MFOA officiates many leagues throught Manitoba including the Winnipeg High School Football League, the Manitoba Major and Midget Leagues, the Senior League, Canadian Junior Football League and CIS Football.
- When are games played? Games take place primarily on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
- 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 you make.
- How does the MFOA pay their officials? MFOA officials are paid a game fee based on their level of certification and 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.
- The MFOA Mentorship Program? After you have completed all the requirements, you will be contacted by a mentor who is an experience member of the MFOA. They will work with you during your first season. Help you develop as an official and get you integrated into the association.
- What can I expect during my first year? During your first year you will be working the sideline position. That is the position of Line Judge and Head Linesman. 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 occured. This is also when the assignments are handed out, so it's important to attend.
- What is my next step? Contact our VP for Recruitment and Training and let him know you are interested. Send him your full name, phone number and mailing address. He will get back to you with more information.
If you are interested in officiating tackle football please contact Adam Paradowski, our Vice-President Recruitment and Training, at recruitment@mfoa.mb.ca.