The Division III Commissioners Association (DIIICA) is launching exciting new plans to improve the recruitment and training of sports officials in Division III athletics. Teaming up with the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO), DIIICA aims to tackle important issues like shortages of officials, behavioral challenges, and the ongoing education needed for officials to thrive. This partnership is made possible by funding from NCAA Division III.
In the coming months, the DIIICA Officiating Committee will kick off the “Say Yes to Officiating” campaign. This will include short, engaging videos tailored for each conference. You’ll find these promoted on livestreams, scoreboards, and social media platforms. The goal? To attract new officials and shine a spotlight on the profession.
In addition, aspiring officials will have the chance to connect with mentors who can guide them through the registration process. There will also be resources on social media to help parents and fans understand game rules, encouraging respect for officials in the stands.
NASO President Bill Topp expressed his excitement about the partnership. He emphasized the importance of Division III sports, stating that officials significantly impact the experience of all participants. He acknowledged that the initiatives would provide much-needed support for officials and officiating leaders.
NASO, based in Racine, Wisconsin, is the largest nonprofit organization supporting sports officials globally, with over 30,000 members. Their involvement brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the DIIICA’s efforts.
DIIICA President Jenn Dubow also shared her enthusiasm. She believes these initiatives not only address immediate challenges faced by officials but also build a strong future for officiating through education and mentorship. She reiterated the importance of creating a supportive community for officials across Division III athletics.
Looking ahead, the DIIICA plans to strengthen ties with organizations like NIRSA and NFHS to find more opportunities in officiating. They aim to focus on both recruiting new officials and recognizing the dedication of experienced ones. Collaboration with NASO, NCAA, and RefQuest will help develop quality training resources, ensuring officials are well-prepared for their roles.
In a year, DIIICA intends to introduce digital newsletters exclusive to Division III, celebrating officiating milestones and sharing valuable content. They will also hold meetings for officials to discuss best practices and devise effective recruitment strategies. The Officiating Tree program aims to create clear development pathways for those aspiring to become officials.
As they look to the future, DIIICA is committed to addressing regional officiating shortages and solving behavioral issues in sports like men’s soccer, ice hockey, and lacrosse. Their goal is to foster a sustainable and supportive culture for officiating across all Division III sports.
In these ways, the DIIICA is dedicated to enhancing the experience for officials and promoting respect for those who play a vital role in upholding the integrity of the game.
