Referees Answer the Call at Collegiate National Championships

Selecting officials for the national tournament is not an easy task; in fact, it is one of the most important decisions that is made.

â??We look for professionalism, and how they handle themselves,â? Ben Shiley, Supervisor of Officials said.

Although professionalism is an important aspect in the selection process, it is not the most important.

â??Skating is the biggest thing that we look at,â? Shiley said.  â??Are they a good solid skater, and are they smooth on the floor is a major factor.â?

Game management and knowledge of the rules are also key factors in the selection process.  If selected as an official, it is because they are the best of the best.

â??You donâ??t come here for the money but the prestige,â? Shiley said.

According to those who referee, you have to love the game in order to love the job.

â??Ninety-nine percent of officials have played the game, and it is a way of giving back to the organization,â? Official Alex Morrison said.

Working as an official for 15-years, Morrison always considers it an honor to be selected for the national tournament.

â??Being here and seeing everyone from different parts of the U.S. makes it more impressive,â? Morrison said.

While every event is important, there is something special about the National Championships and Morrison knows that no matter what, an official has to have focus.

â??We absolutely strive to bring our A game,â? Morrison said.

A lot of the officials  that get this far have worked this level in the past, and even though they are not officiating as many games, the games and players are more intense.

â??Every call means something, and every minute of the game is important,â? Shiley said.