Officials needed for high school, middle school sports across region

Goshen – The Regional Office of Interscholastic Athletics is seeking sports officials to support high school and middle school athletic competitions throughout the region.

Whether you’re a lifelong sports fan, an experienced official, or looking for a flexible way to earn additional income, officiating is a rewarding opportunity to stay connected to the sports you enjoy while making a meaningful contribution to student-athletes and school communities.

“Being an official is a great way to stay involved in a sport you love,” said Dan Morse, Orange-Ulster BOCES’ Interscholastic Athletic Coordinator. “There is a nationwide shortage of interscholastic athletic officials, including in our region. Games are being canceled due to the lack of officials, and that is unfortunate for our member school districts, the athletes, and the communities as a whole.”

Officials are needed throughout Orange, Sullivan, Dutchess, and Ulster counties for varsity, junior varsity, and modified contests in baseball, basketball, cheerleading, field hockey, football, gymnastics, ice hockey, boys lacrosse, girls lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming & diving, track & field/cross country, volleyball, and wrestling.

To become an interscholastic sports official, you must:

Be at least 18 years of age

Pass a fingerprint-based background check

Complete the required training and certification for your sport

Each sport has its own training and certification requirements, and officials can become certified in multiple sports. With flexible assignments available, officials can select opportunities that fit their schedules and availability.

If you’re passionate about sports and interested in giving back to your community, consider becoming an interscholastic sports official. Your time, knowledge, and commitment can help provide student-athletes with safe, fair, and positive athletic experiences.

For more information about becoming an official, visit https://www.ouboces.org/programs-services/interscholastic-oub-athletics/become-a-sports-official.