How to Become a Member

The National Ice Hockey Officials Association, Metropolitan New York –  New Jersey Chapter is a charter chapter, founded in 1957. The purpose of the organization is to promote the game of ice hockey, its players, coaches and officials in the high schools and colleges. Membership is open to residents of the organization’s area who are at least 18 years of age and who successfully meet the criteria which include; passing a closed book examination and verification of on ice performance as established by the Membership Committee.

At this time, our chapter is affiliated with High School Varsity Hockey in Northern and Central New Jersey as well as Rockland County, New York.

Current members of another NIHOA chapter looking to transfer to the Metro Chapter, please use the Contact Us link under the Officer's page.

The Membership Process
 

Experienced ice hockey officials may submit an application to the Chapter Membership Committee at the link below. The application period will close annually on June 1st for consideration of the upcoming season, and re-open on July 1st for consideration in the following season. For example, an application submitted January-May in 2025 would be considered for the 2025-26 season, whereas an application submitted July-December 2025 would be considered for the 2026-27 season.

The Membership Committee shall review the submitted applications and confirm each applicants qualifications. The Membership Committee will select candidates whom they believe are near or at a degree of talent and experience to officiate at the high school hockey level. The selection process will end prior to the beginning of the upcoming hockey season.

If you are looking to become an ice hockey official, please visit USA Hockey for more information.

June/July
Applications will be reviewed by the Membership Committee.

August
Selected potential candidates will be invited to an interview with the Membership Committee. Interviews will range from 5-10 minutes with varying questions.

Being invited to the interview DOES NOT guarantee that you will be invited to take the entrance exam.

September
The Membership Committee will then choose the applicants who have demonstrated their abilities at the required level. These individuals will be administered the NIHOA entrance exam – the exam will be by  invitation only. Upon passing the closed book exam and payment of dues,  you will have earned NIHOA Membership and are subject to the meeting  requirements set forth in the by-laws. Official Rosters are then submitted to the NJSIAA for the following season.