March, 2005

MEMO TO: LACROSSE REFEREES & ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEERS

MEMO FROM: IAN WILSON, REFEREE IN CHIEF

RE: 2005 REFEREE CLINICS – updated as of March 10, 2005

The Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association is experiencing significant player growth this spring. Therefore, our existing clubs/association may require more referees to officiate games. We hope that all 2004 season referees will be returning in 2005 to help develop this great game and make a few well-deserved dollars in the process.

Please note: All referees are required to attend the officiating course on an annual basis. As well, many of the clubs/associations will require additional referees this year so please encourage friends/family to give it a try.

The large growth we are experiencing throughout the province can also contribute to a general lack of understanding from players, coaches and parents regarding many of the rules of box and field lacrosse. Therefore, our association is hoping to continue improving the education process for new and experienced referees.

1) Box Lacrosse - The Canadian Lacrosse Association course involves approximately 8 hours of instruction.

2)    Men’s Field Lacrosse - The Men’s Field courses will remain within the same timeframe within the current year, however, please come prepared so more time will be available for more advanced information. The Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association will provide new referees with the appropriate information in advance of the clinic if we are notified within a satisfactory timeframe.

Referee grants

The Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association is also pleased to provide grants to referees that wish to further develop their lacrosse officiating skills by attending a CLA recognized national championship tournament. The grants will only partially offset your potential travel/accommodation expenses. Please contact the Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association if you are interested in pursuing this opportunity.

Provincial Championships

The Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association will be implementing an application process for referees to officiate at all provincial championships in the 2005 season. Please consider applying to officiate at provincial championships as these tournaments provide you with a great opportunity to advance your experience by working with other high quality officials in intense game situations. Please view the SLA web site for provincial championship dates.

The Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association has tentatively scheduled the following officiating clinics in 2005. Please complete the attached form and submit with a cheque to the SLA office to register so sufficient resources are available at the clinics for all referees. Experienced referees should bring their resource information from last year to the clinic and please review your rules so more time can be spent on specific game situations.

Men's Field Level 1/2 Officiating Clinic

Men's Field Level 1/2 Officiating Clinic

Box Lacrosse Entry Level, Level 1 & Level 2 Officiating Clinic

Box Lacrosse Entry Level, Level 1 & Level 2 Officiating Clinic

Box Lacrosse Entry Level, Level 1 & Level 2 Officiating Clinic

Box Lacrosse Entry Level, Level 1 & Level 2 Officiating Clinic

Box Lacrosse Entry Level, Level 1 & Level 2 Officiating Clinic

Box Lacrosse Entry Level, Level 1 & Level 2 Officiating Clinic

Box Lacrosse Entry Level, Level 1 & Level 2 Officiating Clinic

Box Lacrosse Entry Level, Level 1 & Level 2 Officiating Clinic

Additional clinics may be held depending on instructor availability and new club development.

Please Note: Your local club/association may be picking up the cost of the referee clinic.

If you have any comments or questions regarding the Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association's officiating programs, please do not hesitate to call me at (h) (306) 477-5477 or contact the SLA office.