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NORQUAY — Evan Rostotski, a school teacher and official commissioner for the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association (SHSAA) for the east-central area, is encouraging students and community members to become officials.
“Initially, I started officiating volleyball because there was a shortage in our area, and if people didn't step up, kids wouldn't get to play,” said Rostotski.
“Today, the situation is still similar, but now I officiate because I enjoy the challenge of doing my best and continuously improving and learning. More importantly, I really value the friendships I've built with countless officials and coaches over the years. It's enjoyable to attend a tournament each year and reconnect with the same coaches you see only a few times annually. These meaningful friendships, which I might not have formed otherwise, motivate me to keep returning to the stand every year,” he said.
Rostotski teaches at Norquay School and has always encouraged players to reach their potential in all sports. He currently coaches the Norquay Knights senior boys basketball team and officiates high school volleyball. He became an official in 2012 after being asked to step up and help promote and sustain the sport in schools.
“Students who want to become officials can be at the junior level all the way up to senior. In Grades 10-12, students can even receive a high school credit for it. I have officiated many high-level matches at the high school level, provincial level and national level. There are five different levels of officials: local, provincial, regional, national and international. I am currently at the regional level, and unfortunately, I don’t have the time as a school teacher to dedicate to higher levels of officiating.
“To anyone who is interested, I encourage you to learn, ask questions and don’t be afraid of making mistakes. It is part of the learning curve and don’t get discouraged by others, whether it be coaches or fans. For more information, please call the Norquay School or me,” he concluded.
