NCHSAA takes emergency action to alleviate shortage of girls lacrosse officials
The N.C. High School Athletic Association has announced steps it is taking to alleviate the shortage of girls lacrosse officials, particularly in the Triangle area.
In a joint statement from NCHSAA Commissioner Que Tucker and Associate Commissioner & Supervisor of Officials Mark Dreibelbis, the association said representatives from each Triangle conference met on Friday to discuss potential solutions. Athletic directors worked through the weekend and on Monday to finalize proposals, which were presented to the NCHSAA Executive Committee.
The committee has made emergency changes to policies to alleviate the officials shortage. Among the changes, the number of required officials to conduct a contest will be reduced, and the number of games allowed in a week will be increased.
In addition, the Triangle Area Supervisor of Officials will set priority days for each conference, schools will schedule double and triple-headers at single sites, and there is a discussion of emergency officials training taking place to grow the number of available officials.
US Lacrosse is also working with the NCHSAA to rain new officials that could put new officials on the field for youth games in the area, which the NCHSAA hopes will free up more experienced officials for high school games.
"They plan to target potential adult and junior officials to go through training, providing whistles and waiving fees to attend the trainings or on-field sessions," the NCHSAA statement said.
Last week, at least 21 games were unable to be played in Wake, Durham, and Orange County due to the lack of officials. More games were canceled this week, but it is not clear how many.
"We understand that it is difficult to change plans and schedules. We certainly are sensitive to the student-athletes who are concerned about losing game opportunities throughout the season," the NCHSAA statement said. "It is our hope that through creative thinking, flexibility and a willingness of all member schools, officiating supervisors, partner organizations and NCHSAA staff to come together and find a solution that we will be able to provide the best possible experience for our student-athletes."
The NCHSAA said it will continue to work with member schools, regional supervisors of officials, and US Lacrosse to find solutions for the officials shortage.
"We want the game of lacrosse to grow, especially for women, and for that to happen, qualified officials are needed," the NCHSAA said. "If you or someone you know are interested in becoming a women’s lacrosse official, please contact the NCHSAA Officiating Department, (919) 240-7401."
