MARLBOROUGH, Mass. – The NEWMAC is proud to join NCAA Division II and Division III conferences nationwide in recognizing Officials Appreciation Week, running from January 11 to 17, as part of a continued effort to celebrate the vital role officials play in collegiate athletics.
Now in its fourth year, the Division III Commissioners Association (DIIICA) initiative honors conference officials across all sports and seasons. Officials Appreciation Week is observed three times annually, with celebrations held during the fall, winter, and spring sport seasons. The fall recognition period took place from October 5- 11, while the spring celebration is scheduled for April 5 –11.
Officials and referees are essential to the integrity of competition, ensuring contests are conducted safely, fairly, and at the highest standard. Their preparation, professionalism, and consistency help shape the overall student-athlete experience across the conference. This week provides an opportunity to formally acknowledge their often behind-the-scenes contributions.
As part of the winter celebration, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) representatives from each NEWMAC institution will distribute towels and patches to officials at select home contests throughout the week. In addition, the NEWMAC will spotlight several winter sport officials through features on its website and social media platforms.
“The NEWMAC is fortunate to work with officials who bring a high level of professionalism and commitment to every contest,” said NEWMAC Executive Director Patrick B. Summers. “Their role extends well beyond enforcing the rules. Officials help create an environment where our student-athletes can compete safely, confidently, and with integrity. At a time when officiating has become more challenging nationwide, it is important that we are intentional about respect and the culture we set around competition. Their dedication has a direct impact on the quality of play across our conference, and we are grateful for their continued service.”
Officials Appreciation Week is one of several initiatives outlined in the DIIICA Strategic Plan for Collegiate Officiating, developed following the association’s comprehensive analysis of the current officiating landscape. In partnership with the NCAA and the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO), the initiative also aims to address the growing need for sports officials at all levels. Individuals interested in officiating can learn more through the NCAA’s Say Yes to Officiating platform.
Additionally, NASO and the DIIICA recently launched a new recruitment initiative titled Stay In the Game, designed to help Division III student-athletes remain connected to athletics through officiating. The program pairs prospective officials with mentors via the NASO GameSavers network, providing guidance, resources, and local opportunities to begin an officiating career and continue making an impact in sport.
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.