It's a persistent challenge - finding officials to work Illinois High School Association games.

According to IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson, the shortage is trending in the right direction, but it remains challenging across 16 different sports.

The IHSA recorded a decline in physical officials in 2025 but noted an increase in licenses, which is a positive sign. To address the issue, the IHSA plans to host an official conference on July 11-12 in Bloomington-Normal.

Those interested in becoming an IHSA official can learn more at IHSA.org.