The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) is looking to show appreciation for its contest officials. All MSHSL member schools are encouraged to participate in the League's "Thank A Ref" campaign.

A kind word of thanks toward officials for all they do is the sole purpose of this endeavor.

Without officials, games and contests cannot be held. Officials play an integral part in the events enjoyed by high school students, parents and the entire community. While officials are paid for their service, they put in a lot of time in preparation, travel and expenses. They perform an important job at a relatively low level of pay.

Officiating at the high school level is an avocation, not a vocation.

More than 6,000 individuals have chosen to serve as registered officials with the Minnesota State High School League. Many are registered in more than one sport. Officials work hard to be registered, educated and prepared for the season. Officials often travel an hour or more to work the contests, and spend time away from their families.

Officials enjoy being able to continue their involvement in the sports that they love. Many enjoy the opportunity to give back as a way of showing their appreciation for the positive experiences they had as a student-athlete. Officials truly receive great satisfaction from a job well done. Managing a game effectively and making sure the contests are fair, safe and fun for players, coaches and fans is a great reward.

The more than 500 member schools of the Minnesota State High School League extend their appreciation and thanks to all game officials. Without them, the games are just recess. Coaches, participants and fans are encouraged to show their appreciation by demonstrating respect for them and the difficult job they do.

Minnesota high schools and high schools across the country are in need of more officials at all levels.

If you are interested in finding out more, contact your local high school or go to your state association's website. On the MSHSL's website, click on the "Become An Official" icon near the bottom of the page. Submit that form, someone from the League office will contact you and you can be on your way to becoming an official.

Go ahead: get off the bench, get back in the game and give back by becoming a high school official.