The Ice Hockey Association of Thailand (IHAT) continues to develop its refereeing personnel by organizing the 2026 IHAT Games Official’s Level 2 Seminar from September 1-4, 2026, at SC Park Hotel. The seminar aims to raise the standards of Thai ice hockey officials in line with the standards of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and to prepare them for international-level competitions.
The opening ceremony was presided over by M.L. Kritsada Kasemsan, President of the Ice Hockey Association of Thailand.
The seminar is led by Aomsin Ubonlak, an IIHF Referee License holder and Head of the Refereeing Department of the Association; Watchara Luenam, an IIHF Referee License holder; and Jakkrit Songleksing, an IIHF Referee License holder. They will share knowledge on rules, officiating techniques, and approaches to performing duties in accordance with international standards.
M.L. Kritsada said that the seminar is part of the Association’s referee development plan, carried out alongside the Thailand League, with the aim of ensuring that Thailand’s competition system meets the standards and guidelines of both the Association and the International Ice Hockey Federation.
“A good competition requires referees who meet the required standards, as well as the most up-to-date rules and regulations of the Federation. Most importantly, those attending the seminar must be able to apply the knowledge they gain in actual officiating.”
In addition, the Association has given members of the Thai national teams the opportunity to participate in the seminar and learn about the rules. This will help players better understand the regulations and updated rules, which will be highly beneficial when competing in international events, particularly the World Championship.
The President of the Association further stated that one of the Association’s key goals is to raise the standards of Thailand’s refereeing team to an international level and enable Thai officials to officiate at international competitions in the future. At the same time, the International Ice Hockey Federation itself is also keen to support Thailand in developing its referees.
The Level 2 Seminar therefore represents another important step for Thai ice hockey in developing personnel with the knowledge, skills, and experience required to meet international standards. It also helps establish a strong foundation to support the continued growth of ice hockey competitions in Thailand and pave the way toward the international stage in the future.
