While playing in an adult league in her late twenties Shannon saw that the league was looking for referees, so she signed up. A few months later, an Official saw her reffing an adult tournament and told her she was pretty good, and asked her if she was certified. After replying “No, I just started,” he shared details on how to sign up for the Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA). In two months, Shannon received her Local Badge, and a short year later in 2016, she earned her Provisional Badge, followed by a Beach Volleyball Local Badge.
Shannon has always loved the game of volleyball and enjoys being part of the volleyball officiating community. She played volleyball for part of her high school career, and through her officiating career she is able to pursue her passion for the sport, and stay involved. In 2022, Shannon received her Regional Badge, which is equivalent to Junior National for USA Volleyball. Ten years into her Officiating journey, Shannon officiates across all levels of volleyball: college, high school, elementary, junior, senior, adult league, and private tournaments.
“My schedule for reffing volleyball is almost like a full-time job. I officiate on most weekends and three times a week in the morning,afternoon, and evening. It keeps me active, helps me understand the game, and develops my leadership skills and communication. It’s a great way to connect with players, coaches, fans, and other officials,” said Shannon.
This is Shannon’s second-year officiating JVA events, and she is enrolled in JVA’s Officials Reward Program. She said the reward program is an excellent way to get involved with newer officials and the community. During the 2023-2024 season, the JVA implemented The Sportsmanship Award, handed out by Officials to players who demonstrate one or more of the ideals of sportsmanship during their match, including fairness, civility, honesty, respect and responsibility.
“Officiating volleyball can be stressful at times. There could be disagreements. We miss calls. We all do our best on the court. I like feedback from coaches and parents. We can positively influence young people by enforcing fair play and good sportsmanship. This experience can help develop your leadership and decision-making skills, which can be valuable in other areas of life,” stated Shannon.
Shannon’s favorite memory was the Gold Metal match in Waterloo Rim Park 16U Girls Tier 1 Division 1. It was her third year of officiating, her first gold medal match.
“I was so nervous; my heart was beating hard, and I took a deep breath at almost every point. In the middle of the game, I started to relax a little bit. I got my confidence up, and the game was getting exciting,” shared Shannon.
Shannon officiating a women’s Muslim Volleyball League
Now a veteran Official, Shannon’s other favorite memory is educating new coaches and players, especially during high school matches, where students and teachers do not know the rules of volleyball. Shannon enjoys stepping in to help them learn the game and understand their role. Hopefully they become life long fans of volleyball, and maybe one day, become an Official who makes a positive impact on the sport.
Learn more about the Officials Reward Program. View all JVA events.
