MIAA, NFHS Recognize National Officials Appreciation Week

The MIAA, in conjunction with the National Federation of State High School Associations, once again will be looking to collectively recognize the efforts of our MIAA Game Officials during National Officials Appreciation Week, which will be held October 6-12, 2024.

MIAA staff members will travel around the state to personally thank officials and support their efforts on the local level. We hope that MIAA member schools will consider recognizing them in some manner, including:

• Officials’ appreciation week banners and signage on the fence, wall, etc., surrounding the contest playing area
• Gift cards/cookies/donuts/other items presented to the crew by both the home and visiting team
• Photos of the officiating crew with both teams and coaches prior to the start of the game (or at the end, depending on timing)
• Read a PSA at the start of the game, thanking the crew for working the contest
• Student escorts of the crew onto the field/court/pitch
• “Thank you” cards, signed by the team and coaching staff
• Special appreciation signage in the officials’ locker room
• Recorded “thank you” messages from student-athletes and coaches to officials, posted on social media

Schools are recommended to post any photos/videos of these events/recognitions on social media, with appropriate tags for the MIAA and NFHS:

• Twitter/X:      @MIAA033 @NFHS_Org
• Instagram:     @MIAA033 @nfhs_org
• Facebook:     MIAA @NFHS1920

Mark your calendars for:

• Winter Sports Officials Appreciation Week January 13 - 18, 2025
• Spring Sports Officials Appreciation Week April 6-12, 2024