👋 Introduction: Growing as a Volleyball Official and Leader
Officiating volleyball is more than enforcing rules—it’s about mentorship, leadership, and community building.
Recently, I learned about a leadership opportunity within the Upstate Eight Conference. It wasn’t posted publicly—just shared by word of mouth. That moment made me reflect on my journey and my drive to continue evolving as a mentor and leader in the officiating world.
🏐 My Journey in the World of Volleyball Officiating
Since 2016, I’ve been a certified IHSA and USA Volleyball official. I’ve worked matches at the high school, collegiate, and club levels. In 2021, I had the honor of officiating the IHSA 4A Girls Volleyball State Finals.
That experience reminded me how important it is to stay composed, professional, and consistent, especially in high-pressure environments. Over the years, I’ve come to see officiating as a platform for growth and service to others.
Since 2016, I’ve been a certified IHSA and USA Volleyball official. I’ve officiated matches across high school, collegiate, and club levels. In 2021, I had the honor of officiating the IHSA 4A Girls Volleyball State Finals.
That experience reminded me that volleyball officiating leadership requires more than rule knowledge—it demands professionalism, focus, and the ability to lead by example. Over time, I’ve realized that officiating is a platform for mentorship, service, and community impact.
🧠 Mentorship and Developing New Officials
Mentoring junior officials has become one of the most fulfilling parts of my role. I’ve helped over 25 new referees in the Chicagoland area gain confidence, improve communication, and master the basics of the game.
With a background in education and leadership development, I’ve brought coaching techniques from the classroom into the gym. Helping others succeed is at the heart of being a great official.
📝 Writing the Game: Sharing Insight Through Referee Magazine
In 2025, I became a freelance contributor to Referee magazine. I’ve written three articles (publishing soon) that reflect my philosophy as an official and educator:
- 🔗 The Role of the Official: More Than Just Calling Faults
- 🧠 The Mental Approach to Officiating a Match
- 🚩 To Card or Not to Card: The Art and Science of Volleyball Carding
These pieces explore the mental, emotional, and procedural sides of officiating—and how leadership comes into play at every level.
In 2025, I became a freelance contributor to Referee magazine. I’ve written three articles that reflect my philosophy and experience in volleyball officiating leadership:
- 🔗 The Role of the Official: More Than Just Calling Faults
- 🧠 The Mental Approach to Officiating a Match
- 🚩 To Card or Not to Card: The Art and Science of Volleyball Carding
These stories were born from my desire to raise the bar in the officiating community and empower others to lead with intention.
🔗 Seizing a Leadership Opportunity Through Community
The chance to serve in a leadership role in the Upstate Eight Conference came to me through a conversation, not an application. That’s how officiating communities often work—built on trust, connections, and consistency.
Once I heard about it, I reached out to express my interest and share my vision for supporting younger officials and strengthening the network around us.
🌍 A Vision for Regional Officiating Support
Looking ahead, I’d love to establish a regional association for officials from the Upstate Eight and MSL conferences. This could create a stronger foundation for training, support, and leadership growth.
Whether through writing, mentoring, or organizing, I’m committed to helping shape a more connected and confident officiating community.
Looking forward, I envision launching a regional volleyball officials association to bring together those in the Upstate Eight and MSL conferences.
This group would promote mentorship, shared training, and leadership development across all levels. Together, we can strengthen the pipeline of officials and support one another in our pursuit of excellence.
That’s what volleyball officiating leadership is all about—connection, growth, and purpose.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Officiating has given me the chance to grow, serve, and lead. Whether this new opportunity moves forward or not, I’ll continue developing officials, writing about the game, and supporting others in their journey.
That’s the essence of what it means to lead in volleyball officiating—bringing others up with you.
Want to connect or collaborate?
📧 [email protected]
🔗 linkedin.com/in/MichaelGFlowers
#VolleyballOfficiating #OfficiatingLeadership #IHSA #USAVolleyball #MentorshipMatters #RefereeLife #SportsLeadership #RefereeMagazine #GrowTheGame #WriteTheGame #Upstate8 #MSLVolleyball #CoachTheOfficials #CourtCulture #OfficialsWhoLead #LeadershipInSports #VolleyballVision