Marlborough, Mass.-  The NEWMAC is joining the NCAA in celebrating Officials Appreciation Week throughout the 2025-2026 academic year. This marks the fourth year of the Division III Commissioners Association (DIIICA) initiative to highlight and thank conference officials across all sports.

Over the course of this week, the NEWMAC will spotlight several of its long-time fall officials. Today, we recognize field hockey official Brian Ferris. 

Institutions Attended:  Massasoit Community College and Curry College

College Sport(s) Played (if applicable):  Men’s basketball 

How long have you been officiating?  18 years 

Where/how did you get your start as an official?  High School basketball back in 2007.  I also officiate women’s college lacrosse. 

Why did you decide to become an official?  To stay involved and to give back to the game.

What do you enjoy about being an official in the NEWMAC?  The games are always very competitive, and the coaches are demanding but fair at the same time. 

What would you tell someone who is considering officiating? It’s a great way to stay involved in the game, meet new people, and stay in shape. 

What other work do you do outside of officiating? I am a 7th-grade school teacher and a college basketball coach.

About the NEWMAC

The NEWMAC is an association of 12 selective academic institutions: Babson College, Clark University, U.S Coast Guard Academy, Emerson College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Mount Holyoke College, Salve Regina University, Smith College, Springfield College, Wellesley College, Wheaton College, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute, that are committed to providing high quality competitive athletic opportunities for student-athletes within an educational and respectful environment that embodies the NCAA Division III Philosophy. The conference also partners with eight Associate Members: Brandeis University (Women's Lacrosse, 2026-2027), New York University (Men's Volleyball, 2026-2027), Norwich University (Football), Simmons College (Rowing), SUNY Maritime College (Football), SUNY New Paltz (Men's Volleyball, 2026-2027), U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (Football), and Vassar College (Men's Volleyball, 2026-2027), while sponsoring 20 sports.