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 IHSA Announces 2025-26 Officials of the Year in 22 IHSA Sports 

Published on January 16, 2026 1:06 pm
Last Updated on January 16, 2026 1:06 pm

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The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) is proud to announce its 2025-26 Officials of the Year in 22 IHSA sports.  To be considered for this honor, an official must first be nominated by an Officials Association recognized by the IHSA or by an IHSA administrator. IHSA staff members then vote on the winners based on factors such as character, skill as an official, and levels worked in the IHSA State Series.

This year’s winners will be recognized during the 2026 IHSA Officials Conference, which will be held July 10-11 in Normal, Illinois.

“The IHSA Officials of the Year exemplify professionalism, consistency, and respect for the game,” said IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson. “Their dedication extends far beyond enforcing the rules. They help teach sportsmanship, maintain competitive balance, and uphold the values of education-based athletics. We truly appreciate the efforts of every IHSA official around the state and are excited to be able highlight these 22 exemplary individuals.”

See the full list of honorees by sport below:

        —2025-26 IHSA OFFICIALS OF THE YEAR— 

SPORT OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR HOMETOWN
Boys Soccer Mariusz Folta Arlington Heights
Girls Soccer Dylan Kramer Elmhurst
Football Chris Hartbank Mattoon
Boys Basketball James Kowzan DuQuoin
Girls Basketball Michael Bell Charleston
Boys Lacrosse Greg Smith Bartlett
Girls Lacrosse Jay Abbassian Evanston
Baseball John T. Allen Carterville
Softball Fred McNeeley Princeville
Girls Volleyball Derek Sieg Normal
Boys Volleyball Pat Doyle Manhattan
Boys Swimming & Diving Michael Baughman Geneva
Girls Swimming & Diving Janet Stern Deerfield
Water Polo Mark Menis Naperville
Cross Country Gary P. Gullone Galena
Boys Track & Field Arthur P. Ashbrook Makanda
Girls Track & Field Shawn Strachan Reynolds
Girls Gymnastics Betty Bennett East Dundee
Competitive Cheerleading Carla Taylor-Walton Kokomo, IN
Competitive Dance Lisa Djani Chicago
Boys Wrestling Dion Wiley Richton Park
Girls Wrestling Rich Vine Aurora