Texas increases pay for high school referees

October 20, 2017 / Athletic AdministrationCoaching
Texas’ athletic association is increasing pay for high school sports referees, an effort to combat the sharp decline in those interesting in officiating games.

According to the San Antonio Express-News, the University Interscholastic League’s (UIL) legislative council approved reimbursement increases for referees in eight state-sanctioned sports. Pay scales vary depending on gate receipts and the distances referees travel to work games.

From the Express-News:

Football officials will make at least $100 per game, with participating schools responsible for covering that fee. The scale increases to as much as $205 per game for officials that travel at least 91 miles and work games that produce at least $17,501 in gate receipts, with an additional $30 for each additional $5,000 in gate receipts beyond $20,500.

UIL spokesperson Kate Hector said the increased and modified pay scale is designed “to combat the shortage of officials” experienced across much of the state and “make it easier for both schools and officials to know what they’ll be paid in advance.”

The changes would affect referees in baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, volleyball, wrestling, and swimming/diving.

Referee shortages is an issue in several states, including Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Michigan and Oregon. Most have responded by focusing their efforts on recruiting.

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