NFHS News ...

[BillyMac]

Monica Maxwell, who steps into the role of NFHS basketball rules editor, is no stranger to the world of sports. With a distinguished career both on and off the court, Maxwell brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the game to her new position. Her appointment signals a new chapter in the leadership of high school basketball rules, one that promises to build on the foundation laid by Atkinson.

Maxwell’s journey in sports began long before her appointment at the NFHS. She is a former standout basketball player who made a name for herself as a sharpshooter at Louisiana Tech University. Maxwell’s playing career was highlighted by her time with the WNBA’s Washington Mystics and Indiana Fever, where she demonstrated not only her talent but also her leadership on the court. Her experience as a player at the highest levels of the sport gives her a unique perspective on the game, one that she will undoubtedly bring to her role as basketball rules editor.

In addition to her playing career, Maxwell has an extensive background in athletic administration, serving as the Director of Athletics for the School City of East Chicago since 2017, where she oversees 20 IHSAA-sanctioned sports and has successfully launched programs like Unified Track and Field. Her experience includes managing events and membership for Advocates for Athletic Equity, where she significantly boosted event participation and membership.

Maxwell’s leadership and strategic planning skills have consistently driven successful outcomes in every role she’s held. Maxwell joins the NFHS as Director of Sports, overseeing basketball, soccer, and softball. Her responsibilities include supporting the rules committees for these sports and assisting with the administration of NFHS-sanctioned events. In this role, Maxwell will no doubt quickly establish herself as a leader who is both knowledgeable and passionate about high school sports. Her ability to navigate the complexities of sports administration, coupled with her commitment to athlete safety and the integrity of the game, made her a natural choice to succeed Atkinson as basketball rules editor.

As Maxwell steps into this new role, she inherits not only the responsibilities of overseeing the rules of high school basketball but also the legacy of excellence established by her predecessor. Her background as a player, coach, and administrator provides her with a well-rounded perspective that will be invaluable in guiding the future of high school basketball.

The transition from Lindsey Atkinson to Monica Maxwell as the NFHS basketball rules editor marks an important moment for high school basketball. As the sport continues to evolve, the leadership of individuals like Atkinson and Maxwell is crucial in ensuring that the game remains fair, competitive, and enjoyable for all participants.

Maxwell’s appointment is a testament to her capabilities and her commitment to the sport. With her at the helm, the future of high school basketball looks bright. Her leadership will be instrumental in shaping the next generation of basketball players, coaches, and officials, building on the strong foundation laid by Lindsey Atkinson.

As we look ahead, there is no doubt that Maxwell will continue the tradition of excellence that has become synonymous with the NFHS basketball rules editor role, guiding the sport with the same
dedication, passion, and integrity that Lindsey Atkinson so admirably demonstrated.

[BillyMac]

T.J. Halliday, a seasoned basketball official with over 35 years of experience, has been appointed to the National Federation of State High School Association’s (NFHS) Basketball Rules Committee.

Basketball runs in Halliday’s blood. His father served as a Tournament Site Supervisor of Officials for the Maine Principals’ Association for two-and-a-half decades, instilling in him a passion for the game from an early age. Halliday’s career began in 1985 when he joined IAABO. He officiated Maine high school basketball for 36 years and Division III college basketball for 20 years. His tenure includes 25 years of post-season tournament officiating, highlighted by multiple state championship games.

In addition to his on-court experience, Halliday currently serves as the Maine Coordinator of Officials and works as a Site Supervisor for Maine post-season tournaments. His role as Director of Learning and Development for IAABO, Inc., further demonstrates his dedication to the sport, as he focuses on developing innovative training materials to support the growth of basketball officials.

Halliday’s appointment to the NFHS Basketball Rules Committee is also a continuation of a legacy. His mentor, Peter Webb, served on the same committee for many years, guiding Halliday and others in the intricacies of basketball officiating and rules interpretation. Now, Halliday steps into this prestigious role, ready to contribute his expertise to the ongoing development of the game.

The NFHS Basketball Rules Committee is responsible for reviewing and modifying the rules governing high school basketball across the United States. As a committee member, Halliday will evaluate the game and its rules, contribute to discussions at the annual committee meeting, and assist in developing and proofing materials. His broad perspective, shaped by years of experience, will be invaluable in ensuring that the rules reflect the spirit and purpose of education-based activities.

This appointment also provides an opportunity to recognize the contributions of Dan Shepardson IAABO Board #105 (VT), who served on the NFHS Basketball Rules Committee for the past four years. Shepardson’s work has had a lasting impact on high school basketball, and his efforts are greatly appreciated by the NFHS and the broader basketball community.

As T.J. Halliday takes on this new challenge, his extensive background and dedication to the sport will undoubtedly serve him well. His contributions to the NFHS Basketball Rules Committee will help shape the future of high school basketball, continuing the legacy of those who came before him. We wish him the best in this important role and extend our gratitude to Dan Shepardson for his exemplary service.