News Summary

The Green Bay Packers and the WIAA have partnered to launch a new recognition initiative starting in 2025, honoring high school football officials in Wisconsin. This program will spotlight exceptional officials monthly, culminating in a ‘Crew of the Year’ award at the season’s end. This effort aims to highlight the important role of officials in education-based athletics, ensuring a fair and safe playing environment for student-athletes while providing local officials with national recognition opportunities.

Green Bay Kicks Off Exciting Recognition Program for High School Football Officials!

Hey there, football fans! Get ready to cheer not just for your favorite teams, but also for the unsung heroes on the field—the high school football officials! The Green Bay Packers and the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) have rolled up their sleeves and teamed up to launch a fantastic recognition program aimed at honoring exceptional arbitrators in high school football across Wisconsin starting in the 2025 season. Isn’t that exciting?

What’s the Big Idea?

This initiative is part of a nationwide effort by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the NFL to spotlight the hardworking officials who ensure that high school football games run smoothly. Every month from September to November, we will hear the spotlight shine on a special group called the “Crew of the Month.” This is a great chance to show appreciation to the officials making a real difference on the field!

Who’s Getting Recognized?

The WIAA will be sifting through nominations for five key officiating positions—referee, umpire, head linesperson, line judge, and back judge. It’s a golden opportunity to highlight those challenging the norm and standing out for their objectivity, fairness, and unwavering dedication to the sport! Each month, the selected officials will bask in a little well-deserved recognition for their efforts.

But wait, there’s more! At the end of the season, five terrific officiating crews that have been recognized will be selected as Wisconsin’s “Crew of the Year.” This isn’t just a trophy to add to the shelf; it opens the door to some exciting national recognition.

From Local to National

So, how does this work? Once the winners in Wisconsin are celebrated, the NFL clubs will pitch in and send their top Crew of the Year honorees over to the NFHS and NFL for a shot at being named the national Crew of the Year. Talk about making waves! This could be a fantastic opportunity for our homegrown talent to make it big on the national stage.

Why Are Officials Important?

It’s crucial to understand the vital role that officials play in making sure that student-athletes have a fair, safe, and structured football experience. Ryan Fencl, the Packers football outreach manager, has shared his views on how indispensable these officials are to the game. They’re not just there to officiate; they ensure that the spirit of the game is preserved, grounding student-athletes in a fair environment.

Chad Schultz, the WIAA Assistant Director, has expressed palpable excitement over this partnership. He recognized just how vital officials are in education-based athletics and how they genuinely contribute to both the sport and their local communities.

How to Get Involved

If you know an official who deserves some extra love and recognition, you can submit nominations through a dedicated link. Your vote could echo throughout the community and beyond! This initiative aims to shine a light on all those amazing individuals who make football a reality for countless youth across Wisconsin.

Spread the Word!

This isn’t just a local affair—recognition and celebrations will spread across the digital landscape through Packers and NFL Play Football social media platforms. So, be on the lookout for those updates, and help spread the good word about our outstanding officials! Let’s cheer them on together!

In conclusion, the partnership between the Green Bay Packers and WIAA marks an exciting chapter for high school football officiating. With continuous recognition, these officials will receive the acknowledgment they truly deserve. So get ready to watch, celebrate, and participate—it’s time to raise a cheer for our referees!

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