PHOENIX (AZFamily) — In years past, Arizona’s Family has reported on the referee shortage for high school sports in the Valley.

While the Arizona Interscholastic Association said there is no longer a shortage for officials, their pool is limited without a surplus due to alleged abuse.

“It seems like it’s getting worse every year,” said Brian Gessner, state commissioner of officials for the AIA.

Though the AIA does not have a surplus of officials for this football season, some games will have to kick off on Thursday because there is a higher demand.

“The demand right now is high because of how good Arizona football has become,” Gessner said. “Other states want to come in and play, and we have schools crossing the state to play in various areas. Some games had to be moved to Thursday night, and now the officials are able to work a couple of games a week, so they get a Thursday night game and Friday night games.”

Gessner is urging fans, players and coaches to respect referees at not just football but all sports for high school athletics.

“These people that are officiating are your coworkers; they’re your neighbors; they’re your brothers and your sisters; they could be your mother and your father,” he said. “Keep in mind, these people are sacrificing time away from their families. Some grace should be given. They’re high school officials.”

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