As Illinois schools face a growing shortage of high school referees, students like Minooka senior Elliot Dahlberg are stepping up and getting paid to help fill the gap.

Dahlberg is one of a group of juniors and seniors who took an officiating class in the spring semester offered by Minooka High School. Minooka is one of a growing number of schools offering the class.

Dahlberg reached out to the head of umpiring in Will County and this summer umpired youth games up to the U-12 level.

“Sports is something that I have a passion for and put 110% into,” said Dahlberg, who has wrestled and plays football. “My brother started doing officiating; he’s four years older than me. I thought it might be something to get into, make some good cash, stay with the sport.”

It’s a good time to foster

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