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Articles by Dan Olson
Andy Van Hellemond: The NHL Referee Who Changed Hockey
“If a player enters the crease area willfully,” says new NHL Director of Officiating Andy Van Hellemond, “he will receive a penalty and a goal would be disallowed. Our position is the crease is a goalie’s home base. He has a right to play his position and to do his job uninterrupted.” In 1996, after officiating in 19 of the previous 20 Stanley Cup finals, Van Hellemond dropped the puck for the last time in his NHL career.
Dallas Keefover: The Tragic End of an Umpiring Dream
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in the May 1986 issue of Referee. It contains detailed discussion of suicide and reflects the language and understanding of mental health at the time of publication. Dallas Keefover wanted to be a major league umpire perhaps more than anything else in his life. A Family Searches for Answers On July 16, 1984, Dallas Keefover took up a pencil to write a short explanation of why he was about to hang himself in the attic of his family’s home.
Two Right Hands Too Late: Lew Eskin and the Willie Classen Tragedy
November 23,1979 — Referee Lew Eskin stops the fight seconds into the tenth round. Middleweight Willie Classen has heard his last bell. It was March 24th, 1962. I was an eighth grader in the New York school system, but my parents allowed me to stay up late to watch my favorite sport, boxing, on my 17” RCA black and white TV. Emile Griffith, former welterweight champ, was trying to regain his title from Benny “Kid” Paret.
Zebra Chief: How Art McNally Shaped NFL Officiating
Zebra Chief. That’s the name of the boat presented to Art McNally honoring him for decades of service to the National Football League. Paid for by officials who worked with and for McNally, and affectionately named after him, that gift in part explains McNally’s impact on pro football and those with whom he has dealt. You can learn a lot about Art McNally from one story, circa 1948. McNally was a 23-year-old Temple University freshman, majoring in health and physical education.
Like Father, Like Sons
Politics had the Adamses. Big band music had the Dorseys. Acting had the Barrymores. And officiating has the Crawfords. Umpire Henry “Shag” Crawford retired in 1975 after 20 distinguished major league seasons. But his name lives on in more than just memories. Son Jerry has taken his father’s place as a National League umpire. Another son, Joe, is an NBA referee. If any group can lay claim to the title First Family of Officialdom, it is the Crawford family of Havertown, Pennsylvania.
Anti-Social
Social media and sports officials are increasingly colliding, creating new risks that officials at every level must understand and manage carefully. As officials, social media is great for keeping track of the comings and goings of family and friends. But used improperly, it can be our worst enemy.
Volleyball Referee Stand Safety: Prevent Disaster With Standard Checks
Volleyball referee stand safety must be part of every prematch routine to ensure a secure officiating environment. Referees have a tough job. They have to make hundreds, if not thousands, of decisions every match. It can be draining to have to figure out the legality of every single touch of the ball as well as in/out decisions, rotations, alignments and a slew of other decisions.
Captains’ Meetings That Matter
A basketball captains meeting plays a critical role in setting expectations and building respect before the game ever begins. So much time is spent teaching young officials about rules knowledge, game management, proper mechanics, court coverage and the like. Heck, there are some clinics that hold breakout sessions to emphasize how to run properly. But teaching the nuances of another important part of the game is often overlooked: the pregame meeting with captains.
NASO Reconnects with Positive Coaching Alliance
The National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) recently renewed its partnership with an organization it has long supported. NASO President Bill Topp has been appointed to the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) Advisory Council. PCA is a nonprofit dedicated to creating a positive environment in youth sports. The organization provides live workshops and online training that blend the latest sports and educational psychology with insights from professional and collegiate athletes and coaches.
Pain in the Association
By Rick Woelfel From Pride to Problems Think back to the start of your officiating career — the pride of passing the rules test, pulling on your first striped shirt with the state association’s logo, and eagerly attending meetings and trainings. New officials rarely hesitate to complete requirements like concussion training or working scrimmages for little or no pay. But as careers progress, the enthusiasm can fade.
First Down in Brazil
BY MARCEL KERR As the world continues shrinking in the palms of our hands, the NFL continues expanding its brand worldwide. In May, the NFL announced it would feature seven games during the 2025 season in South America and Europe. Those matchups will give seven NFL officiating crews opportunities to stamp their passports for business travel.
Montgomery Hosts Landmark Gathering at 2025 Sports Officiating Summit and Officiate Alabama Day
Hundreds of sports officiating leaders, officials, and administrators gathered in Montgomery, Ala., July 27–29 for the 2025 Sports Officiating Summit—three days of programming focused on the development, direction, and support of officials at all levels. Held at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel, the Summit followed Officiate Alabama Day, a statewide event hosted by the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) on Saturday, July 26.
Poise. Pressure. Presence. What It Really Takes.
Every official knows how to blow the whistle and signal a foul. But the best officials bring something more—something you can’t find in the rule book. They exude confidence. They recover quickly. They manage pressure like pros. That’s what What It Takes is all about. This online course was built specifically for sports officials, by people who’ve been in the game and know what it demands.
Wizards of the Coast Warns Unlawful Magic NFT Group to Stop
The derided and hated practice of NFTs may not be completely leaving the tabletop gaming community. But rather than the marketing gimmick of Exploding Kitten's printable NFTs to promote one of their own games, this latest buying into this elaborate digital scam may be the studio behind genre staples like Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons, Wizards of the Coast.
New NCAA Director of Umpire Training Needed
(7/15) NCAA Director of Umpire Training Tom Hiler is retiring from that position on Aug. 31, after serving in that capacity with the NCAA Baseball Umpire Program for the past 13 years. The NCAA now has the challenging task of finding his replacement.
No Wake Zone - Referee.com
I don’t know if Little League Baseball, small-fry wrestling or other youth sports build or reveal character, but I do believe in the innocence of children. That belief was reaffirmed at one summer Bronco baseball game years ago. The players at this level are 11 and 12 years old. I was the umpire-in-chief behind home plate during a tournament game when an 11-year-old boy hit a pop fly to right-center field. The base umpire was in the proper position to observe the play.
One Constant In Times Of Change
Every sports official has ups and downs in their career. This past year, in many parts of the country, the officiating industry itself was brought low by the Covid-19 Pandemic. One constant through it all has been Referee Magazine. Since 1976, Referee has steadfastly put out the only monthly magazine for sports officials in the world. We’ve helped countless officials, referees, umpires and judges hone their craft as they move through their careers and accomplish whatever their officiating goals are.
AVP Officials Meet the Challenge of Champions Cup During Pandemic
Justin Baker, San Gabriel, Calif., watches play during the AVP Tour’s Champions Cup. Face coverings were one of the precautions officials had to take to help minimize the spread of COVID- 19. Photo Courtesy of AVP Turn on NBC in the summer during a normal year and you are likely to see some of the top volleyball players in the country competing on the sand.
A Mathematical Dive Into the Strike Zone
There is a mathematical approach to the strike zone. Tatem Stoelting, Denton, Texas, knows being aggressively accurate ensures you will also be consistent as a plate umpire. Photo Credit: USA Softball The softball strike zone has not changed for a long time; it is still the zone explicitly described in the rules for each softball code.
Six C's That Will Get You Straight A's
Gil Cartagena of El Paso, Texas, calls a runner out at first with a healthy dose of conviction. That sort of confidence is one of the keys to officiating success. Photo Credit: Victor Calzada Mnemonics are devices intended to assist the memory, as a verse or formula. A popular example, HOMES, is an acronym to help recall the names of the Great Lakes (Huron, Ontario, Michigan Erie, Superior). There are six qualities that raise the level of your officiating.
More Players, Fewer Officials Point to Trouble Ahead
The NFHS reports a 16 percent increase nationally in the number of boys playing high school soccer in 2018 compared to 2009. While this may thrill soccer enthusiasts, it’s causing an unexpected problem. High school soccer is gaining games and there are not enough referees to support the growth. Unfortunately, the NFHS does not publish national data on high school soccer referees. Therefore, an analysis is required of a state that publishes information on both players and referees.
Passer Gets Extra Attention - Referee.com
Photo Credit: Bob Messina Philosophies, rules and mechanics have increasingly stressed the need to officiate through the passer — in other words, pay particular attention to contact on that player. That is because he’s often in a vulnerable position with little or no opportunity to protect himself from forcible contact. Although the quarterback may not be the passer, he usually is so we’ll assume that from here on. I want to offer some thoughts about how we might do a better job in that area.
Fighting The Pandemic With Skills Learned As a Referee
As a member of the Professional Referee Organization (PRO), I had the privilege of working the Women’s World Cup in France in 2019. Being recognized as one of the top soccer officials in the world is a humbling honor and it was the ultimate reward from the game I so love. But I also have another passion that has come to the forefront during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Silent Stands Teach Us A Valuable Lesson - Referee.com
If the quality of the game is unchanged (or even better) without fans there to scream at the coaches, officials and players, is that behavior really necessary when the games resume? The 2020 New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA) State Basketball Championships were able to conclude last March, crowning 10 boys’ and girls’ state champions. The first two days of the tournament were just like any other — kids playing, coaches coaching, officials officiating and fans cheering and screaming.
Don’t Sell Your Halftime Short - Referee.com
Use halftime to share what you know, make adjustments and put your crew in the best mental position to succeed before you put the ball into play for the second half. From left, Stacey Thomas, Novi, Mich.; Lindsay VanDyken, Jenison, Mich.; and Charles Smith, Fort Wayne, Ind. Photo Credit: Ralph Echtinaw Basketball officials have been instructed time and again about the importance of pregame discussions as a crew.
16 Sure-Fire Ways to Improve - Referee.com
Laser focus, as demonstrated by Amy Milton, Durham, N.C., is one of the most important aspects of officiating. Regardless of level of the teams or how well they are playing, officials must pay attention from start to finish. Photo Credit: Carin Goodall-Gosnell Tens of thousands of words have been devoted to helping officials improve their performance. No attempt has been made here to identify these as the best tips.
You Are There: Boise State's Statue of Liberty vs. Oklahoma 2007
Some eyebrows were raised when Boise State was selected for the 2007 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. The Broncos were a perfect 12-0 during the 2006 season, but some questioned the caliber of the schedule they played in the Western Athletic Conference. Their opponent would be Oklahoma, which came into the matchup with an 11-2 mark after winning the Big 12 Championship Game.
Strategies to Stay Above the Fray
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the officiating industry has taken a heavy blow. All officials in some shape or form were impacted and continue to face challenges going forward. Games across the globe have been postponed or canceled, in-person training camps have been dropped and the normal camaraderie associated with officiating has drastically changed. Many officials were forced to stay home, and everything thrown at them from the news, social media, television and radio was increasingly negative.
Understand the Differences With Atypical Fouls
You just called a technical, intentional or flagrant foul. These are atypical plays in your game, and you may be unsure just how to administer the ensuing action. Depending on the level of play, how to administer these atypical plays can differ. However, for whatever game you’re working, there are a few steps that are common to all. The first step should be to slow down. Once the whistle blows, the clock stops and all eyes turn to you. This is not the time to be in a hurry.
It's OK to pick up a flag or put one down late
Judging by the style of his flag throw, Charlie Chastain, Norco, Calif., has detected a spot foul. Moreover, it would appear he’s not at all unsure of his ruling. A strong throw projects confidence while a timid flag often indicates apprehension. Photo Credit: Heston Quan Back in the day there were two commonly accepted officiating axioms: Don’t pick up a flag once it’s put down and don’t put one down late. The idea was that either will make us look uncertain, which can be a kiss of death.
How To Handle An Instantly Irritated Coach
The legendary Ed Hightower was “on loan” to the Western Athletic Conference many years ago handling the referee duties during a Fresno State game. About 30 seconds into the contest, Hightower had a foul call in front of the opposing coach. He raised his fist in the air, body slightly tilted forward from the momentum of running, and just as he blew the whistle, the coach started in. Hightower held his position, arm straight as an arrow, frozen in time. “Not today, coach.
College Baseball Replay: By the Numbers
photo courtesy of DV Sport The 2019 college baseball postseason saw not only a significant expansion in what types of plays can be reviewed, but also an expansion of where replay was deployed. It wasn’t merely at the College World Series in Omaha, Neb. It was used during the regionals and super regionals, too.
When in Doubt, Solved - Referee.com
Photo Credit: Dale Garvey Several years ago rulemakers began putting “when in question” guidelines in the rulebook. They say that in certain cases, if a ruling could go either way, it should go as specified. There’s a sound rationale for them and they’re in accord with the advantage-disadvantage philosophy of officiating. Better to do that than to just fly by the seat of your pants when you face those situations. Below I identify some guidelines and the reasoning behind them.
"I'll Never Forget": Officiating Legends Recall Their Most Memorable Game
It is June 14, 1998, at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. The Chicago Bulls are playing the Utah Jazz in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. Dan Crawford is one of the referees. The Jazz are leading by one with the ball, 20 seconds away from forcing a Game 7 at home. Utah’s Karl Malone sets up in the low post on the left side of the lane. Teammate Jeff Hornacek, guarded by Michael Jordan, runs to the right corner, drawing Jordan away from the play. Crawford is on the baseline.
Pati Rolf Moved From College Coach to High Level Official and Has Never Looked Back
A lime green toy pig, gifted to Pati Rolf by the distraught motorist who accidentally struck her on snowy Minnetonka Boulevard in Hopkins, Minn., nearly 50 years ago, endures all these years later somewhere in the attic of her home in Pewaukee, Wis. There is a reason why that cuddly little toy she used to clutch didn’t quietly fade away with so many of her other childhood possessions.
SHOULD H.S. BASKETBALL GIVE THE SHOT CLOCK A SHOT? - Referee.com
The NFHS basketball rulebook makes no mention of a shot clock. But governing bodies in eight states, plus the District of Columbia, utilize a shot clock for high school play in some form or fashion. At least three others are experimenting or have recently experimented with it. And in at least one instance, a league whose member schools are not affiliated with their state athletic association utilizes a shot clock in league games and on occasion in non-league contests as well.
When to Throw Flags, When Not to (and When to Pick ’em Up) - Referee.com
The block at the right may or may not be a foul. It is at the point of attack, so it merits attention. But if the blocker began the block from the front and continued contact while the opponent turned, it would not be a block in the back. Seeing the entire block is crucial to avoiding incorrect rulings. Photo Credit - Dale Garvey The idea of a flag being waved off brings to mind an overbearing referee trumping the decision of a younger crewmate.
Held Balls a Haven for Off-Ball Harms
Should this play result in a held-ball ruling, official Steve Landro, Everett, Wash., will have a great look at the action. What’s important is that the remainder of the crew keep an eye on everything else that might take place immediately after the whistle blows. Photo Credit: Dale Garvey How many officials does it take to rule a held ball? No, this isn’t some type of comedic riff on the well-worn “How many (insert insult here) does it take to change a lightbulb?” joke.
Seven Kinds of Hustle
By coming to a complete stop with a good angle and sufficient distance, Adil Sheikh, Los Angeles, is well positioned to make a ruling on the play. While Sheikh had to move briskly to attain his position, he also had to employ other aspects of “hustle.” Photo Credit: Bob Messina Hustle is defined in different ways by different sports officials, but many will point out that the physical — get from here to there as fast as possible — type of hustle is what counts most. Not so fast.
AD's Who Officiate Give Tips On Working With Game Admin
As officials, it’s desirable to maintain quality working relationships with the athletic directors of the schools where we work. As in any working relationships presenting and maintaining a professional image, and doing things the right way is important. Few understand this concept better than athletic directors who are also officials.
"Reggie The Ref" Is More Than Just a Nickname
Embed from Getty Images Nicknames are part of sports. “Hammerin’ Hank.” “The Greek Freak.” “A-Rod.” Sports officials go the same route. “Reggie the Ref.” Catchy nickname, right? That’s what they call Reggie Smith, highly respected Big 12 Conference referee.
Officiating Organizations Stand Out at the Summit@Home
Often in officiating we only hear about officiating companies or organizations when they have a booth at a camp or clinic we’re attending, or when someone we know shares a website or social post. At the 2020 Sports Officiating Summit@Home, many of the top officiating gear, services, technology and training companies were all present and showing off what they have available, and offering special deals. In fact, many of those special deals are still available until Aug.
The Sports Officiating Summit@Home Starts Monday
On Monday morning, more than 6,000 of your officiating peers are going to be tuning in to the Sports Officiating Summit@Home. Will you be among them? After the in-person Summit was canceled earlier this year, the NASO Board of Directors faced a stark decision: Switch focus to 2021 and go more than a year without a national gathering, or attempt to recreate that Summit magic virtually.
Four Hits or First Contact? Techniques and Tips for One of Volleyball's Toughest Calls
Mark MicKinnon, Homewood, Ill., is locked in on a possible four-hit/first contact call during a high school match. If the ball is blocked back into the opponent's court and the attacking player contacts the ball, it would be a first contact. No touch would be four hits. Photo Credit: Dean Reid Volleyball referees are tasked with making many split-second decisions during a match.
Focus on Free Kicks
You are the referee for tonight’s game. You have completed the pregame conference with your crew, met with the head coaches and conducted the coin toss. Now you hustle into position for the opening kickoff. While you have probably performed that routine hundreds of times and taken it for granted, there is a long list of action items that need to be processed in order to properly administer and cover the first play of the game.
Plays Not Seen Often Challenge Officials
Is that a grasp and twist? Or just a grasp? And what is being grasped? Facemask? Helmet opening? Depending on the code, the covering official may or may not have a flag on this play. Photo Credit: Dale Garvey No one has ever attempted to rank fouls in the order of the difficulty in calling them. However, it’s clear there is pecking order. For example, encroachment is easier to call than holding.
MLB umpire Steve Rippley ejects 17 during one ’84 game - Referee.com
It may happen that an umpire can go through an entire career without a “hat trick.” That’s baseball parlance for ejecting three participants in a single game. Imagine what it would be like to eject 17 players, coaches and managers in a single game! Say hello to Steve Rippley, who had the unfortunate experience of doing just that during an Aug. 12, 1984, game between the San Diego Padres and the Atlanta Braves.
Getting the Ruling Right Isn’t a Travesty - Referee.com
A play this close would likely not result in a partner telling Glenn Brown, Whidbey Island, Wash., he had an obvious miss. Photo Credit: Dale Garvey One of the “catch-all” rules in softball refers to “making a travesty of the game.” That was put in place to take care of those players who try to make an umpire’s life unbearable. It ensures the shenanigans of a player do not cause so much confusion that an opponent winds up doing something that enables the offending team to gain an advantage.
Grab Those Borderline Pitches and Help Your Game
No one likes a tight strike zone. It frustrates pitchers, it frustrates fans and it slows down the game. Call borderline pitches strikes and it solves these problems. Andy Fletcher, Olive Branch, Miss. Photo credit: Bill Nichols I once worked a college game with an umpire with the proverbial postage-stamp strike zone.
Fruits of His Labor
The 44-year-old Julio Rivera- Torres, who now lives in Vancouver, Wash., began life in a small village called San Miguel Del Ojo de Agua in Colima, a Mexico state. The village was about a 40-minute bus ride to the nearest city (Tecoman, Colima); it had no running water or electricity, and the family used firewood for fuel and the corn it grew for food. “We also relied on the local river for water and fish,” Rivera- Torres said.
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