Sports
Statewide dearth of officials starting to be felt in Central Texas
Published: July 2, 2000
Imagine a junior high or high school football game being played with only two referees, instead of the usual four.Throughout the state and especially here in Central Texas, the above isn't such a far-fetched scenario. That's because there is a drastic shortage of referees for the upcoming school year."We need as many good men as quickly as we can get them," said Frankie Wood, vice president of the Temple chapter of the Texas Sports Officials Association.Wood says there is a statewide shortage of 3,000 officials in all sports for next season, with 1,500 needed for football. He said the Temple TSOA chapter is short and needs "20-30 people, at least."The organization is welcoming those interested to attend its first training meeting at 7 p.m. July 17 at the Elks Lodge in Temple. Subsequent meetings will be held each Monday at the same time and site throughout the season. by Will Wright