Normal, Ill., was once again the hub for high school officials in July, as the Illinois High School Association hosted its 26th annual Officials Conference. The two-day gathering, held July 11–12 at Normal Community West High School, drew hundreds of officials representing multiple sports and experience levels.
This year’s conference theme—Renew, Review, and Revive—emphasized the importance of annual preparation and rejuvenation for a new season, no matter the sport or experience level.
NASO’s presence was highlighted on Saturday when NASO President Bill Topp delivered a presentation in the main auditorium. His session was part of a full slate of clinics, workshops and recognition events designed to sharpen officiating skills and build community.
“It was great to see so many officiating friends in Illinois,” Topp said. “In-person events like the IHSA’s Officials Conference are invaluable. We have a great partnership with the IHSA and we appreciate the opportunity to work with them to honor and support officials.”
The conference opened Friday evening with registration and a ceremony recognizing 22 IHSA Officials of the Year across sports ranging from football and basketball to competitive cheer and wrestling. Saturday’s program featured certified clinics in football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, baseball, softball, swimming and diving, track and field, and wrestling, plus a special workshop tailored for beginning officials. Attendees were also honored for career milestones, with service awards marking 15 to 60 years of dedication to the craft.
“The high school officiating community in Illinois is a special group of people,” IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson said. “This conference is a unique opportunity for them to gather together to celebrate their shared passion and to improve their skills by learning from each other’s experiences.”
For NASO, appearances at state association conferences like IHSA’s are a direct way to connect with officials in their home environment. They provide an opportunity to share resources, reinforce officiating standards and highlight the professional protections and training that NASO delivers nationwide.
