A lack of hospitality by schools or failure to receive payment in a timely fashion can exacerbate frustration among officials. The officials for your contest should contact the school by noon. Through this process, they communicate relevant information about the games and provide vendor numbers and other pertinent information. Most often, officials call to speak with the Financial Secretary, if he/she is not readily available, it has often been reported that there is not an alternative person in place to receive the information to avoid the payment to officials being delayed. Schools may also utilize the Arbiter System -an online website used to assign officials to contest. It contains the most accurate, up-to-date information regarding referee assignments for your contests. 

Secondary Colleagues,

Happy New Year! I hope this email finds you well. Below are a few helpful tips that will allow us to "reset" for the second semester and our basketball contest/events.

Administrators, Coaches, and Officials Interaction 

NFHS Coaches' Code of Ethics states: "The coach shall respect and support contest officials. The coach shall not indulge in conduct which would incite players or spectators against the officials. Public criticism of officials or players is unethical." Principals are expected to remind all coaches of their responsibilities as role models for good sportsmanship, especially in their interaction with the officials during the game and immediately after the contest. It is inappropriate for coaches to confront an official after a game and to publicly criticize the game officials in the media.  

When interacting with officials at a contest, always maintain respect. Refrain from using offensive language or gestures and avoid disputing calls aggressively. Remember, sportsmanship sets the tone for a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. A school can show hospitality and respect to officials by providing a welcoming environment. This includes offering a designated area for officials, providing refreshments, ensuring clear communication about facilities and available parking, and asking for Security to escort all officials to their cars after contests. Additionally, acknowledging officials before and after the game, expressing appreciation for their role, and handling concerns through appropriate channels demonstrate a commitment to sportsmanship and a positive atmosphere. 

Payment of Officials 

A lack of hospitality by schools or failure to receive payment in a timely fashion can exacerbate frustration among officials. The officials for your contest should contact the school by noon. Through this process, they communicate relevant information about the games and provide vendor numbers and other pertinent information. Most often, officials call to speak with the Financial Secretary, if he/she is not readily available, it has often been reported that there is not an alternative person in place to receive the information to avoid the payment to officials being delayed. Schools may also utilize the Arbiter System -an online website used to assign officials to contest. It contains the most accurate, up-to-date information regarding referee assignments for your contests. 

Officiating Concerns  

If you have concerns regarding the overall quality of officiating at your contest, address them calmly through proper channels after the game. Coaches and others should work through the school's Athletic Director to lodge a complaint or express a concern. The Athletic Director should contact the Assigner or the MSCIAA first so the matter can be referred to the designated person to handle issues of this nature.  

Fans and Spectators 

And lastly, please remind your fans to treat the game officials with respect. Some new officials are trying to understand the rules and how to apply them while working on effective game management. We need these officials to replace retirees and to cover the games of our growing sports programs. Let them know how dire retention is because of the official shortage. Our community needs education-based athletics and officials so our students can always play the sports they love. 

Parking Lot Safety Tips 

Safety isn't limited to the time spent at athletic contests; it extends to when our staff, students, and fans leave the venue. We encourage you to communicate and promote these essential safety tips: 

• Park in Well-Lit Areas: Advise staff, students, and fans to park their vehicles in well-lit areas. Visibility is a powerful deterrent to unwanted incidents. 
• Valuables Out of Sight: Remind everyone to stow valuables out of sight. Leaving items in plain view may attract theft. 
• Lock Your Vehicles: Ensure that vehicles are securely locked. This simple step can prevent break-ins. 
• Travel in Groups: Encourage carpooling or walking in groups, especially at night. There's safety in numbers. 
• Report Signs of Trouble: If anyone sees trouble or suspicious activity, urge them to immediately report it to the proper authorities. 
• Please let your building engineer know if your parking lot lights aren't working so that a work order can be entered into Schooldude. 

Safety is a collective responsibility, and by promoting these measures, we can help keep our school community safe even after the final whistle has blown.  

MSCS Event Procedures 

As basketball season resumes, please be reminded:  

• Staff, students, and families should be reminded of MSCS event security procedures and clear bag policies. 
• Post signage around your venue entrances and notify attendees to alleviate confusion at ticket gates.  
• To the extent possible, ask your players to avoid bringing backpacks to the games. 
• Refresher Video: MSCS Event Security Procedures Video 

Lastly, we appreciate your support and partnership. Ms. Weaver and I are always here to assist, and we look forward to continuing to provide quality athletic experiences for our students and communities. We continue to be appreciative of your commitment to the safety and well-being of our school community. 

Please contact Ms. India Weaver at weaveri@scsk12.org or Dr. Roderick Richmond at richmondrf@scsk12.org if you have any questions.

Best regards,  

RFR/IW