LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Chris Snead he began his officiating career in 1990 and knows the importance of the role in every sport.<\/p>\n
\u201cFirst and foremost, they\u2019re the third team on the field no matter what,\u201d Snead said. \u201cWhether it\u2019s a youth game all the way up to a professional game.\u201d<\/p>\n
While working mostly in football, Snead has been able to venture into other sports, making life memories along the way.<\/p>\n
\u201cI did volleyball so I could officiate with my daughter, Snead said. \u201dShe was an all-district volleyball player. She got into officiating and we worked a game together and she was the senior official. It was awesome for me.\u201d<\/p>\n
Snead says above all else, these officials want to ensure a fair contest for those who are playing, but something is missing when it comes to this area.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe men and women who have been doing this in west Texas for years have done that and they\u2019ve done it without much notice and recognition,\u201d Snead said.<\/p>\n
Enter the West Texas Officiating Hall of Fame. What started as an idea in 2022 began taking form last year and will come to fruition this year as a web-based recognition dedication.<\/p>\n
In order to be considered, a nominee must have officiated for at least 10 years in the sport they are nominated for, officiated in a regional final or final game, or are recognized as a mentor in your sport. The public is encouraged to nominate those they feel are deserving from now through the end of July.<\/p>\n
Snead says with 100 years of officiating without recognition, a first class of up to 50 people is possible. He\u2019s honored to turn this idea into reality, and can\u2019t wait to see it expand over the next several years.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m going to be super excited to see people that have earned this recognition that are not getting the recognition they deserve just be given a pat on the back,\u201d Snead said. \u201cJust say hey, we recognize what you did and we think that you did something good, and we\u2019re excited to be able to honor you.\u201d<\/p>\n