Platteville Optimist Club's "Official" Secretary

R: Optimist Secretary Jerry Schewe with President Bob Hundhausen sporting what he learned at the meeting

Jerry Schewe's first officiating role was a slow pitch softball game while he was in high school. In 1995, he officiated his first basketball game at Badger State Games. He became a licensed WIAA official in 2001 and is currently licensed in basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and football. He spoke about his journey as a sports official and sports officiating in general which included talk about their official gear to sharing some referee gestures. He had copies of the three books he receives each year being the "Rule Book" (black and white), "Case Play Book" (puts some gray in it), and "Officials Manual" (mechanics) which he is tested on each year to remain a licensed official. He also spoke about their rankings, which are reviewed and evaluated differently for different official levels. These rankings are used to determine post-season assignments, promotions, and more.