Referees are getting mic'd up

Following a trial last season, referees will be mic'd up during the 2026/27 Motorpoint Elite League season, with the system being rolled out gradually across the league.

Referees will be in communication with each other throughout the game, with the option of pressing a button to speak directly over the public address system for penalty announcements and video reviews, helping to keep everyone informed of what is happening and why.

In addition, unlike during the trial, linesmen will also wear microphones. They will be in communication with each other throughout the game and will be able to speak to the referees by pressing a button.

"We trialled this system at every arena last season from late December until April, and the feedback was very positive," began Head of Hockey Operations Liam Sewell.

"From having been on the ice in leagues and tournaments where headsets are used, I know it's a big benefit to officials to be able to talk to each other when they're at separate ends of the ice.

"There’s also an important transparency aspect for fans. Being able to hear decisions explained directly by the referee helps everyone in the arena understand what has been called and why, particularly around video reviews."

Some additional work is still required at certain venues to ensure the public address system functionality works as intended, with more games set to use the system as the rollout continues.