Marriott Corporation Named 2012 Medallion Recipient

Feb. 9, 2012 — Marriott Corporation, one of the longest-standing partners of NASO, will be recognized for its contributions by receiving the Mel Narol Medallion Award.

The presentation will be part of the Sports Officiating Gala at the NASO Summit July 31. Not coincidentally, the Summit will take place at the Downtown Waterfront Marriott in Portland, Ore.

“One of America’s leading hotel chains, Marriott has provided exemplary service while hosting a number of NASO events, including Summits,” said NASO President Barry Mano. “Thanks to Marriott, NASO is able to offer members one of their most useful benefits — the Athletic VIP Program — which offers money-saving discounts to members at Marriotts and their affiliated properties.

There are 521 Marriott hotels and resorts worldwide — 343 in the U.S. and 178 overseas. In addition to the main chain, Marriott operates other properties such as JW Marriott hotels and resorts, Renaissance Hotels, Courtyard, Residence Inn and Fairfield Inn and Suites. The company is headquartered in
Bethesda, Md., and
 has 146,000 employees.

The Medallion was created in 2001. The award is named for the late Mel Narol, longtime officiating legal advocate and NASO leader. Past recipients:

2001 — Jerry Seeman, retired NFL senior director of officiating.

2003 — Mel Narol (posthumous).

2004 — Fox 40 International, makers of the Fox 40 whistle.

2005 — Dick Honig, owner of Honig’s Whistle Stop.

2006 — Marcy Weston, retired national coordinator of NCAA women’s basketball officiating.

2007 — Bill Kolbe, retired attorney, business and legal advisor for NASO.

2008 — Ed T. Rush, retired NBA referee and supervisor of officials.

2009 — Ronnie Carter, retired executive director for the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association.

2010 — David Dodge, retired NCAA Division I men’s basketball official.

2011 — Alan Goldberger, sports law attorney and recognized legal authority for game officials.