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New Hampshire Wrestling Officials Association

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the New Hampshire Wrestling Officials Association (NHWOA) and what does it do?

The NHWOA is a 501(c)3 organization of wrestling officials in New Hampshire. It was founded in November 1987 to create an organized system for assigning, developing, and supporting referees across the state and has grown into much more.

Here’s what NHWOA does:

    • Officiating Services: The NHWOA provides experienced, professional officials for wrestling matches and tournaments throughout New Hampshire. 

    • Training & Development: The association runs training programs, peer mentorship, and continuous education so officials improve their skills, learn new rules, and climb the ranks to bigger opportunities.

    • Community & Support: We build and maintain a community of referees who value respect, sportsmanship, and service —  to wrestlers, coaches, parents and to each other.

    • Communication & Leadership: The NHWOA fosters open communication among officials, coaches, and athletes, and encourages integrity, leadership, and professionalism in officiating.

Where can I find the 2025-2026 season schedule?

You can view the full schedule of upcoming meets, tournaments, and training sessions on our Events Page. We keep it updated throughout the season, so check back often for the latest dates and details.

Who is eligible to become an official with NHWOA?

Whether you’re a former wrestler, coach, or someone simply passionate about the sport, the NHWOA welcomes you to train, mentor, and grow into an official. 
You can apply through one of two primary paths:

  • The Junior Apprentice Referee (JAR) Program for high school students. Click here

  • The Adult Apprentice Official program for adults beginning their officiating journey.  Click here

    Both paths include structured training, peer mentorship, and support to help you confidently officiate matches in New Hampshire

What kind of training and mentorship does NHWOA provide?

At the NHWOA, we’re committed to helping every official grow and succeed. We provide:

  • Pre-season training to practice mechanics, positioning, and officiating skills.

  • Rules interpretation & association meetings so all officials stay up-to-date and consistent.

  • Peer mentorship, pairing new officials with experienced officials for guidance and feedback.

  • Ongoing professional development through workshops and continuous learning opportunities.

  • Community support, building a network of officials who communicate, lead, and support one another.

What attire or equipment do I need as an NHWOA official?

When you join NHWOA, we make it easy to get started by providing links to purchase all required uniforms and gear. Generally, officials need:

  • A custom striped referee shirt (purchased from the association inventory)

  • Black pants and a black belt (if pants have belt loops a belt is required)

    • no jeans, sweatpants, windbreaker pants, zippers.  Golf pants recommended
    • ensure belt will not damage wrestling surfaces when getting down to count near fall

  • Black sneakers (optional white bottoms with matching black socks

  • Red and green wristbands for signaling

  • A whistle on a lanyard (preferably tear away & plastic for safety)

  • A flip disk for scoring

  • Optional

    • a bag or “ref kit” to carry your equipment

    • black jacket or pull over to wear in between matches.  Trust us, it's nice to blend in when moving amongst the crowd.

We want you to feel prepared and professional on the mat, and our uniform links help ensure you have everything you need right from the start.

How do I maintain my NHWOA certification and membership?

Staying active with the NHWOA is simple. To maintain your certification and membership, officials are expected to:

  • Pay annual dues to keep your membership current.

  • Attend required meetings or training sessions, including preseason rules meetings and any refresher courses.

  • Complete any continuing education or recertification requirements, which may include online modules or in-person training.

  • Officiate regularly during the season to remain in good standing and maintain your skills.

By staying engaged with NHWOA, you’ll continue to grow as an official, stay up-to-date on rules and best practices, and remain part of our supportive officiating community.