New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) The Referee Training Programme for Ice Hockey Season 3 has officially commenced in Delhi NCR, serving as the second on-ground capacity-building initiative for the 2025–26 season. Running from December 1 to 5, this initiative gathers over 20 officials from Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, underscoring the ongoing commitment to enhance the technical foundation of Ice Hockey throughout the Himalayan region.

Prior to the on-ice training in New Delhi, the participating officials completed four virtual modules that are part of this well-structured, season-long Referee Development Programme. These online sessions provided essential officiating concepts, ensuring that every referee commenced their on-ice training with a consistent understanding of rules, mechanics, and situational decision-making.

The training is spearheaded by Peter Gebei, a highly experienced Ice Hockey professional from Hungary, who boasts over four decades of involvement as a player, referee, and officiating coach. A former member of the Hungarian national team with 57 international caps, Peter transitioned into officiating after his playing career, refereeing in elite international leagues such as the Austrian Hockey League (Erste Bank Eishockey Liga) and the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).

His selection for the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Top Division World Championships is a testament to his technical skill and unwavering consistency at the highest levels. As a senior referee, he continues to officiate at global IIHF competitions.

In addition to his officiating duties, Peter plays a crucial role in mentoring upcoming referees worldwide as an IIHF Officiating Instructor, establishing structured educational pathways and contributing to the development of robust officiating frameworks internationally. His leadership injects global standards and expertise directly into the Indian context.

In accordance with the Blueprint for Himalayan Ice Hockey Development, the Referee Training Programme fortifies the governance and officiating standards necessary for the sport’s advancement in developing regions. The week-long training integrates classroom instruction, on-ice demonstrations, and scenario-based assessments to cultivate a technically proficient group of officials who can support developmental competitions and community-driven tournaments.

Upon concluding the programme in New Delhi, trained officials will proceed to Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh to assist with Learn to Play initiatives and officiate early-season regional camps. They will subsequently form the core officiating team for the upcoming developmental leagues in early 2026, including the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey League (REIHL) in Ladakh and the Spiti Cup, powered by Royal Enfield, in Himachal Pradesh.

Through these structured initiatives, Royal Enfield continues to promote its Social Mission of empowering Himalayan communities through sports, enhancing technical standards, broadening opportunities for youth and women, and cultivating a resilient and credible winter sports ecosystem throughout the region.