Sunday, January 26, 2020

PORTLAND, Ore. – The game can’t be played without the men and women in stripes. The GNAC and its 11 member institutions will take time out to recognize those who keep order on the courts.

The GNAC’s winter Officiating Appreciation Week will take place at conference events from January 27 to February 2, with Saint Martin’s, Seattle Pacific and Western Oregon honoring officials the following week at those institution's home games.

The Officiating Appreciation Week is part of a nationwide effort by NCAA Division II members and conferences, the Division 2 Conference Commissioners Association (D2CCA) and the Division 2 Athletic Directors Association (D2ADA). The effort is designed to not only recognize officials for what they do in all sports but also to encourage student-athletes to consider officiating following their competitive careers.

Says GNAC commissioner Dave Haglund: "All of us in Division II are extremely grateful for the time, effort and professionalism of those who ensure safe and fair environments by serving as game officials, and we want to make sure that the men and women who are supporting our student-athletes and coaches through the avocation of officiating know how much we value and appreciate their commitment to the game."

In addition to the GNAC, Division II conferences across the nation are taking part in Officiating Appreciation Week.

For more information on how to become an official, we encourage you to visit the following links or reach out to your local officiating organization:

• National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) 

• Say Yes to Officiating

• State high school resource guide