Officials training

What is the officials training program?

Before any football official from across Canada steps onto the field for the first time, they must first successfully complete training through Football Canada’s Officials Certification Program (FCOCP).

The introductory FCOCP training helps educate and give new officials confidence before receiving their first assignment. The level one course brings new officials up to speed on positioning while the field, mechanics and the rulebook.

After completion of the initial training, officials start their careers as a level one official and with time, experience and additional training can progress up the ranks by taking additional courses.

Where do I fit in?

Once you step out onto the field, you start out in Head Linesman assignments at lower age groups and at higher levels as a minor official (e.g. stick crew, downs box) to help learn from more experienced individuals.

For more information about additional officials levels, click on the pathways for officials button.

After completion of their initial training, officials start their careers as level a one official and with time, experience and additional training can progress up the ranks.

Level I

To prepare the new Official for assignment on the sideline (Head Linesman and/or Line Judge) in minor leagues and high school football. To begin the familiarization process with instructional techniques, training aids, and training manuals.

Level II

To improve the Official’s understanding of the sideline position and to refine sideline officiating mechanics. To prepare Sideline Officials for assignments in the Umpire positions in a 3 and/or 4 Official system in minor and high school levels of football.

Level III

To improve the Official’s understanding of the Umpire positioning in the 3 and 4 Official system. To prepare Officials for assignment to the Umpire and Back Umpire’s positions in the 5 Official system in minor and high school football. To prepare Officials for the Referee position in minor and high school football.

Level IV

To prepare Officials for assignment to any position in CIS or Junior League football. Officials will progress from position to position with experience at higher levels of play. Officials will be introduced to the six Official system before introduction to CIS or Junior League levels of play. With experience, the Official, at this level, may be assigned to any inter-provincial playoff games, including CIS and/or Junior League National playoff contests.