As a new school year approaches, Rogue Valley officials worry more than ever about members’ dwindling numbers. The number of referees available is dwindling to dire levels — regardless of sport — with officials associations stretched as thin as ever and desperately seeking assistance.

It is time for a zero tolerance policy for official abuse and poor spectator and coach behavior at youth sporting events. Officials are so afraid for their safety that many are walking away, and nearly 80% of first-year officials in some places do not return for a second year. We are reaching a tipping point that requires drastic action.

Ashland High School has a long tradition of producing outstanding runners, and junior EJ Holland is emerging as one of the best. A track and cross country state champion, he has won many races including the Nike border clash and other prestigious races.

For the past two years, NBC5 and the Know Your Role campaign have worked to improve sportsmanship and good behavior at youth sporting events locally. Thursday night, we awarded scholarship money to one special high school athlete who’s exemplified everything Know Your Role is about.

Hopefully, you have seen the Know Your Role TV spots airing on KOBI Channel 5. SOSC has partnered with KOBI to create a TV campaign which will help communicate the message of healthy competition behavior at sporting events.

The battle against boorish behavior at youth sporting events is about to get an Olympic-sized boost. The Know Your Role campaign initiated by the Southern Oregon Sports Commission will join forces with KOBI-TV to further the message aimed at improving the region’s youth sports culture.

Youth participation in sports is down in recent years and parents may have a role to play in keeping their kids active.

“We have coaches, we have parents, we have referees and we have players, you can only be one at a time,” said Kevin Primerano with the Southern Oregon Sports Commission.

Lithia and Driveway is distinctive for its all-weather, fence-to-fence artificial turf playing surfaces. The facility features over 1.1 million square feet of Field Turf-brand synthetic grass - the largest facility of its kind in the United States!