Hanging up the stripes

So I think today is a milestone for me.  Way back in 1976 I became a licensed official in the state of Illinois.  Today is the first day I have not been officially registered as an official in the State.  I counted once, I think I was at over 4500 games officiated.  Most of those were intramural, park district or summer camp games.  But over 2000 of those were high school games of some sort.  It's been fun, it's been a great challenge, it has been rewarding, both spiritually and financially, but I think you have to know when it's time to quit, and I know it is now.

I'll be forever thankful to the men and women who mentored me along the way.  I have been fortunate to work the state finals, major tournament championships and exciting regular season games.  I have refereed for men and women who have gone on to successful college and professional careers.  And I have had the pleasure to work for some of the finest men and women coaching on the sidelines as well. I'm thankful I have had these opportunities.  

Best memories, no question, refereeing for Candice Parker was a highlight.  She was certainly the best female athlete to ever play the game in Illinois.  No one could play with her.  I'll never forget the rivalry games either.  St. Joseph and Unity, Central and Centennial, Chrisman and Paris.  All were special games where the fans, players and coaches were involved in every play.

I'll be forever thankful to the men and women I partnered with on court as well.  Referees are a special breed.  Thankless jobs for sure, and the people who don the stripes deserve the respect of all involved in the game.

We are not supposed to play "favorites" however truth be told my favorite place to work has been Uni High in Urbana.  My first varsity game was at Uni.  I was a college senior and Uni played at Huff Gym in those days.  I was as excited as I could be.  For me, this was the state championship.   I couldn't tell you who won, I can't tell you anything about the game, I can just say it was a game I will never forget.  Over the years I've continued to referee at Uni as many times as they have asked me.  For me at least, they represent high school athletics at it's best.  Very few of the kids went on to play in college, although almost every kid went on to successful careers in life.  They always played hard.  The played fair, and they had fun.   They epitomize what sports are about.  So as I look back on my career I'll hold my "favorites" in a special place in my heart.  The coaches, the players and especially the administration, Sally Walker in particular, have always made refereeing at Uni High special.  

Have I missed calls?  Absolutely.  Have I made calls that impacted the outcome of the games?  Hopefully not.  Have I had fun?  No question.  Would I do it again?  In a heartbeat.  

So I'll move to the sideline and become a fan.  And as a fan, I'll have respect for the men and women officiating the games.  I know they work hard to be the best they can.  I know they try to make the right calls.  I know they don't care who wins, but really care about making sure both teams have a chance to win.  I know they love the games.  And hopefully, I know that like me, they are just happy to be involved in the game they love.