For Release October 15, 2013NASO Supports New Orleans Football Officials RACINE, Wis. — On Friday, October 11, two NASO members were treated in an outrageous and wholly inappropriate way by a Covington, La., police officer during a high school football playoff game in New Orleans. Both are also members of the Greater New Orleans Football Officials Association (GNOFOA). The GNOFOA itself is also a member of NASO-ON – NASO’s Organization Network. NASO takes very strong issue with the behavior and subsequent actions of the police officer, Stephen Short. On the face of it, officer Short felt he had the authority more than the officials had the authority to manage the geography and the behavior of certain fans who were on the sidelines. Officer Short was wrong. Further, the fans who received the attention of the officiating crew were in a location that they should not have been in. The officials attempted to restore the sidelines properly and by rule, but officer Short decided it would be otherwise. Following is a link to a comprehensive and articulate statement issued by the GNOFOA. NASO commends the organization for its professionalism and careful thought in this unfortunate matter. As is stated in their release and as reinforced by NASO’s own evaluation, the officials acted appropriately. The Louisiana High School Athletic Association and the Louisiana High School Officials Association concur in that finding. As for the two officials, NASO members, who were handcuffed and kept overnight in custody, we offer our support. The short-term sullying of their reputations will not have a lasting effect on their body of work. The decades of outstanding service as officials will stand up during this trying time. Barry Mano, NASO President To view the statement released by the GNOFOA, visit here. To view the statement released by the LHSOA, visit here.
Contact: Bill Topp
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