Ontario Hockey League Announces 4th Annual Officiating Prospect Development Combine
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is pleased to announce the 4th Annual Officiating Prospect Development Combine (OPDC), taking place from June 12-14, 2025 at the Brampton Courtyard Marriott and CAA Centre in Brampton, ON. This new central location, along with an enhanced and refined program, will provide a premier opportunity for identifying and developing top officiating talent.
Each year, the OHL receives over 200 applications for the OPDC, selecting approximately 90 officials to participate for each Combine. Of those, 60 have advanced to the OHL Officiating Training Camp, with 46 participants officiating in the OHL during the 2024–2025 season.
Testimonials from Past Participants:
- “As a former player, the combine helped me discover a new and profound love for the game.” – Jamie Haines, Official
- “The officiating combine was an incredible experience! It was a weekend full of hard work, high level lessons, valuable feedback and opportunity. Learning from top officials and managers from the OHL and being seen by leagues at the next level. Unforgettable and rewarding weekend with other great officials from across Ontario.” James Kraft, Official
- “The passion and commitment of the staff were evident. The guest speakers were fantastic, and the instructors at all levels offered valuable learning experiences.” – Mike Blackburn, Official
- “From the challenging off-ice sessions to learning from top-tier professionals, the OPDC provides a one-of-a-kind experience and exposure to the next level of hockey officiating.” – Eric Taylor, Official
- “The OPDC is perfectly designed for those aspiring to officiate at the highest levels of hockey. Every part of the combine equips you to be a better official.” – Tristan Forgie, Official
About the 2025 OPDC: The 4th Annual OPDC will continue to scout and develop officiating talent from Ontario and the United States. It is open to current high-level hockey officials and individuals who have recently completed their playing careers and wish to stay involved in the game. No prior officiating experience is required, but applicants must be strong skaters, in excellent physical condition, and passionate about officiating at a high level.
This event offers a significant opportunity for participants to showcase their skills, with some potentially advancing to the OHL Officiating Training Camp in August 2025 and competing for a spot on the OHL Officiating Team.
In partnership with the Ontario Hockey Federation, Hockey Canada, and the National Hockey League, the OHL continues to be a leading development league for players, coaches, and officials aiming for the highest levels of hockey.
Registration: Interested individuals can register by filling out the online form here. Registration closes on Friday, April 4. Due to limited space, applications will be reviewed by a selection committee, and chosen participants will be notified by email by April 11. Further details regarding registration, payment, and accommodations will be shared upon selection.
Investment: The cost to attend the Combine is $475.00 + HST (NEW AND LOWER PRICING), which continues to include:
- On-ice evaluation by a fitness and skating specialist (TBD)
- Minimum of 6 hours of ice time
- Minimum of 6 hours of high-level classroom sessions
- Meals provided on Friday and Saturday
- Special group rate at the Brampton Courtyard Marriott if hotel accommodations are needed (individual expense, limited availability)
- Exposure to key officiating professionals from OHL, NHL, OHF, and OHA
- A special participation gift
We look forward to seeing you at the 4th Annual OPDC!