(NMB) While summer has just started, it won’t be long until the High School sports season gets going again. The Montana Officials Association and the Montana
High School Association are always recruiting officials to work games, from football and volleyball in the fall to basketball, wrestling and softball. There can never
be enough officials. New Media Broadcasters talked to MHSA Executive Director Brian Michelotti and he says while efforts in recruiting new officials
is strong, the MOA can always grow in numbers. The question isn’t about recruiting, but how long the officiating pool can keep new officials active. While
sportsmanship issues are a big factor in retention; it’s not the only factor.
“The recognition of the challenges of a busy family life and a busy work life, and how those balance with being an official as well, because if there is ever anybody out there that wants to be an official, there’s no better way than when you can’t put those cleats on or those shoes, or pick up that bat anymore, you can come out and give back to that sport and be a part of that sport for a long time by being an official.”
Local officiating pools are always looking for new members, if you or someone you know would like to become an official for a specific sport, you can contact the
MHSA and they can tell you who to get contact in your area.
