Indiana Senate Bill SCR0025

Indiana 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/23
• Engrossed: 3/6/23
• Enrolled: 3/9/23
• Passed: 3/9/23

Caption

Honoring Indiana High School Athletic Association officials.

Impact

The resolution not only commemorates the long-standing tradition of the IHSAA but highlights the essential contributions of athletic officials in shaping a positive environment for youth sports. By celebrating these individuals as community role models, the resolution aims to elevate the perception of sports officials in Indiana, potentially addressing the issues of recruitment and retention amid growing concerns over disrespect towards officials. This public recognition could foster a better atmosphere during games and encourage more individuals to consider officiating as a viable avenue of involvement in sports.

Summary

SCR0025 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that honors the officials of the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) for their 120 years of service and positive impact on young student-athletes. The resolution recognizes the significant role these officials play in promoting sportsmanship, fairness, and adherence to the rules of various sports, contributing to the overall development of youth participating in athletics. This acknowledgment comes amidst a backdrop of increasing challenges faced by officials, including harassment from parents and a notable decline in the number of available referees and umpires, which has led to game cancellations.

Contention

While SCR0025 is primarily celebratory in nature, the resolution draws attention to critical issues that have led to a shortage of officials in high school sports. The combination of increased parental dissatisfaction, the broader cultural dynamics regarding respect, and the impact of recent events like the COVID-19 pandemic have created a challenging environment for these officials. Therefore, while there may not be direct contention within the resolution itself, it points to underlying societal issues that require collective action from communities to ensure the sustainability of high school athletics.