September 27th through October 2nd is NSAA Officials Appreciation Week. Every year, in preparation for the season, these individuals attend clinics, participate in rules meetings, and take tests. During the season these dedicated men and women take time away from their personal schedules and families to provide opportunities for the thousands of student-athletes that participate in NSAA Activities.
As high schools begin a third school year of sports and other activities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, a familiar issue continues to challenge administrators nationwide: finding enough individuals to officiate all scheduled contests. With the intense scrutiny of our officials and the looming officials shortage we feel it is important to show our appreciation for these women and men who give their time to our student-athletes so they can play the games they love.
“Officials have been getting harder to find. They do what they do for the love of the game. They don't get paid nearly enough. We need to show them respect for their time and effort which gives our student athletes the chance to compete in activities,” said John Erwin, NHS Activities Director.
While we always appreciate our officials, we are taking an entire week to recognize them. As you attend events, we ask that you please show appreciation and respect to all of these outstanding officials.
