The Reason We Officiate

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Today I had a first in my officiating career. I attended the funeral of an official in our area, who served for over 30 years as a basketball, football, and baseball official. He was a great partner, mentor, and friend. The family requested that at the funeral, the basketball officials in attendance wear their stripes, the football officials wear theirs, and the baseball officials wear theirs. It was quite astounding to see just how far the officiating family extends. Even more touching was seeing the number of coaches and athletic directors in attendance.

Mr. Oakley had been in poor health for some time, and upon his passing, our booking agent called the local paper to suggest that they consider writing an article on his passing. Much to his surprise, the writer told him the story was already in the works, as a local high school varsity boys coach had called with the same suggestion just a few hours earlier, upon hearing about Mr. Oakley's passing.

So, when all the association politics, coaches shenanigans, and player attitudes sometimes seem too much, may we all remember to keep the example of Mr. Oakley. We're all in this for the same reason.

Article from the Winston-Salem Journal: Death of Oakley 'a big loss in area'