The Referee Shortage: A Persistent Challenge in Illinois High School Sports

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – In 2022, Big Ten official Jeff Carr highlighted a growing concern in officiating: as seasoned referees age out of the profession, younger officials are not stepping in to fill their shoes.

Fast forward to today, and the problem continues to impact high school sports, with local IHSA officials sharing their personal experiences.

“I’m working six to seven days a week,” says IHSA official George Wilhelmson. “But to be honest, I’m getting older. I don’t do six games a day anymore.”

This fall, veteran referees like Wilhelmson were often asked to work overtime, balancing officiating duties with their day jobs to prevent game cancellations in the Stateline area. Meanwhile, others, such as former IHSA referee Heinrik Schroder, have stepped away from officiating after decades of service. Schroder cites both the physical demands and the increasingly hostile behavior from players, coaches, and spectators as reasons for leaving.

“Why should I subject myself to getting yelled at by strangers while just trying to help kids enjoy the game?” Schroder explains.

A 2020 IHSA survey revealed that 70% of officials initially get involved because of their love for the sport. However, the same survey found that abusive behavior from fans, coaches, and players was the top reason referees leave the profession. Recognizing this issue, the IHSA launched initiatives like Enough is Enough, which empowers officials to remove abusive spectators and coaches from games. These efforts, along with recruitment campaigns, have contributed to an 18% increase in new officials since 2022.

While the progress is promising, the challenges persist. “For me? I’d do it all over again,” Schroder says. “I still enjoy officiating every once in a while.
”For those inspired to start the journey into officiating, visit the official IHSA website. How to Become a Licensed Official.

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