Greenwood@ Athens
Oct. 6, 2023

It’s a pleasure to work with Athen’s Athletic Director Guyler Luther. His communication prior to and during the contest is outstanding. Also, his and Athen’s hospitality was fantastic. Next, we would like to acknowledge the outstanding sportsmanship displayed by both teams, sidelines, and fans. Head Coaches Todd Diethelm and Dean Lindner educate, model and expect positive sportsmanship of their coaching staff and players. Both team’s sidelines were excited, encouraging, and great to communicate with. Also, both sidelines did an impeccable job in keeping their sidelines clean. Third, the players did an amazing job on the field. They worked and communicated well with officials, motivated their own teammates, provided the opposing team with words of praise, and helped each other off the turf. As a crew, we concluded that this was one of easiest and most enjoyable games we have officiated at any level as the coaches and athletes were respectful, positive, competitive, and having fun. Congratulations to Coach Diethelm as his program has been acknowledged for his sportsmanship in the past and hats off to Coach Lindner for the positive behavior of his young team. Applause to the communities of Athens and Greenwood and the educational and coaching leadership of those schools. It takes time and effort to train our youth on the importance of education, sports, leadership, and exhibiting positive sportsmanship.

Reporting Official:  Shawn Umland