The following is a statement from Tom Combs, Executive Director of Section XI … 

We are happy that Section XI and the President’s Council of Suffolk County Officials agreed on a contract so there are no interruptions to the 2023 high school season. 

The pay rate and contract are commensurate with our expectations of quality officiating and official’s organizations’ growth to provide Section XI’s student-athletes with the best game experience possible.

Section XI officials have always been some of the best in the nation based on ability and quality, and they continue to be some of the highest paid. As a result of these recent contract negotiations, there is also an expectation of staffing at least two officials for every Section XI contest.

We understand it has been difficult to recruit and build the next generation of school sports officials, but we are hopeful that this increase in pay and extension of goodwill between Section XI and the officials’ association will aid in the overall recruitment effort for years to come. 

Most importantly, having officials ready for opening games will support our talented and dedicated student-athletes as they pursue their scholastic goals. 

Section XI has requested that official availabilities be entered into the system for early fall contests no later than Friday at Noon. We’re ready to start this season strong.