Officials still being sought for high school sports

The shortage of high school officials in almost every sport continues, and local sport commissioners are still looking to recruit new officials.

Locally, the shortage is now critical and high school games are being either moved or cancelled. Roger Stewart, District 1 football commissioner, said there are many opportunities to get involved with the sport you love.

"You can make a difference. Get off the couch and see the games from a different perspective," Stewart said.

According to an Idaho High School Activities Association news release, becoming a high school sports official is the easiest call you’ll ever make. High school officials protect the integrity of the games our kids love to play by demonstrating qualities like honesty, objectivity, consistency, courage and common sense. They have the opportunity to help our youth learn life lessons that will benefit them for a lifetime. As veteran officials continue to retire, new officials have an opportunity to make a huge difference in the lives of hundreds of young people every year.

Consider the many benefits of becoming a high school official:

You can get in the action

It’s a great way to stay in good physical condition

Hours are flexible

You’ll earn extra income

You’ll expand your network of friends and have fun

Registration has started for the 2022 fall football, volleyball, and soccer seasons. The Idaho High School Activities Association has waived the registration fees for first- and second-year officials. To register, visit https://idhsaa.org/new-officials, and click on "Register Now." You will be asked which sports you are signing up for. The commissioners from the sport(s) you choose will contact you and get you started on the training. Meetings start in August.

Information: Roger Stewart. [email protected]