Minor Officials

Minor Officials Guide

Scorekeeping:

• Ringette Ontario scorekeeping is primarily done digitally using the RAMP GameSheet App, requiring a unique code for each game provided by team staff, where scorekeepers record goals, penalties (including detailed times and served status), and player info, often using paper notes as backup, and must handle suspensions according to rules for players on multiple teams, ensuring accurate data entry for official records, even offline.

• Key Steps for Scorekeepers:
  • Get the Code: Obtain the specific GameSheet Code for your game from your team staff before the game.
  • Use the RAMP App: Download the app (iOS/Android) and use the code to access the digital game sheet.
  • Offline Functionality: If Wi-Fi is poor, use airplane mode and sync later; data saves offline.
  • Input Game Info: Enter officials' details and select players from rosters (or add substitutes).
  • Record Goals: Log goals with player number and assists.
  • Track Penalties: Record penalty type, start/end times, and served-out times; pay attention to when players can leave the box (e.g., not if even strength after a goal).
  • Backup Notes: Use paper notes as a backup, but the app is mandatory.
  • Handle Suspensions: Follow rules for players serving suspensions across different teams. 

• Important Considerations:
  • Accuracy: Enter information correctly the first time.
  • Device: A smartphone or tablet is required; laptops aren't supported.
  • Official Rules: Familiarize yourself with specific Ringette Ontario rules, especially regarding penalties and suspensions. 

• For detailed instructions, consult the RAMP GameSheet App Quick Guide for Ringette Ontario. 

Timekeeping:

• The timekeeper is responsible for the operation of the game clock, displaying the time remaining in the game. If the scoreboard is capable, the timekeeper shall display the score, period, and time remaining in penalties being served.
• If the rink is not equipped with an automatic buzzer or siren, or if such device fails to function, the timekeeper shall signal the end of each period.
• If the game clock malfunctions, the timekeeper shall track the time remaining in the game using a stopwatch, if available, or an ordinary wristwatch.
• The timekeeper shall time the 30 seconds allocated for team timeouts (Note: if available, a shot clock is often used for this purpose).
• The on-ice officials shall decide any dispute regarding the time remaining in the game.
• Adjustments to the game time shall be made only with the sanction of the on-ice officials.

• Useful Tips and Hints:
• The warm-up should be timed according to the rules of the league or event. Typically, the warm-up is 3 minutes for games.
• Watch the clock to ensure that it starts and stops as required.
• If able, the Intermission should be timed (one minute). Use the time-out or intermission timer to avoid any penalties running during the intermission.
• A goal spread of larger than 7 goals should be displayed as only a 7-goal spread. For example, if the real score is 10-1, the scoreboard should display 8-1.
• The referees may request the use of running time in the second period if the goal spread is 7 or more. During running time, the clock should still be stopped for an injury, a time out, if a penalty is called or the trailing team scores reducing the goal spread to less than 7.
• Work with the Scorekeeper to ensure that players are informed when their penalty time has expired and are released from the penalty box.
• When multiple penalties are assessed against a player, the total penalty time to be served shall be displayed.
• It is useful to be familiar with rules related to penalty order and cancellation in case the game has simultaneous or fully served penalties. This can get confusing in a busy game.
• The referees will decide any dispute regarding the time remaining in the game. Adjustments to the game time shall be made only with the sanction of the referees

Shot Clock Operator:

• A Ringette Ontario Shot Clock Operator (SCO) is a crucial off-ice official who manages the 30-second shot clock for games u12 and up, resetting it when the attacking team gets control after a stoppage or a shot hits the goalie/post, working closely with referees for signals, and ensuring smooth game flow by understanding shot clock rules, often located in the penalty box for a clear view and to avoid distractions. Training is available through Ringette Canada's National Officiating Certification Program (NOCP) for standardized skills, and operators must sign the game report. 
• Key Responsibilities
  • Operate the Shot Clock:Start, stop, and reset the 30-second timer as per rules.
  • Communicate with Officials:Watch for hand signals or verbal cues from referees to reset the clock.
  • Understand Reset Triggers:Reset the clock when the defending team gains control, the ring enters the net, or the ring hits the goal post/goalkeeper in the crease.
  • Positioning:Usually in the penalty box for a clear view, protected from spectators.
  • Sign Game Report:Sign the official game report at the end of the game. 

• When to Reset (and When Not To)
  • Reset: After change of possession, ring hits post/goalkeeper, goal scored, delayed penalty whistle.
    • Change of possession.
    • The ring enters the net.
    • The ring contacts a goal post of the crossbar.
    • The ring contacts the goalkeeper or AGK within the goal crease.
    • The ring contacts the goalkeeper outside the goal crease and that contact prevents the ring from entering the net.
    • Shots on net for shot clock reset

• Do Not Reset (Unless Signaled): Ring goes wide, ring goes through crease without contact, or a violation by the non-possessing team. 
  • IF IN DOUBT, DO NOT RESET. The referee will signal you to reset.

• Training & Resources
  • NOCP Pathway:Ringette Canada offers standardized training for officials.
  • In essence, the SCO is a vital part of the officiating team, ensuring fairness and pace by correctly managing the shot clock under the guidance of the referees.