SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — On top of managing multiple games a night, referees are also managing unruly and, in rare cases, violent parents.
It’s propelled a shortage in referees who are seeking new legislation that could protect them on the court.
On Saturday, second-year referee John Strickler was busy running the court and working the whistle.
It’s a job he really likes.
“It’s been really good in my time here,” Strickler said.
And that’s the case for many refs who enjoy being around the game, but on a number of occasions, the fans take it too far.
“I’m hoping that again it serves as a deterrent,” Washington Representative Suzanne Schmidt said. “People might think twice about their behavior.”
Washington lawmakers are pushing a new law (House Bill 2079) that would make assaulting referees a Class-C Felony. If it passes, anyone who violates it can face up to five years in jail or a $10,000 fine.
Strickler supports the new proposal and thinks it will help attract more people to get involved with the sport.