KIRKSVILLE, Missouri — If you want to organize a sports event, there are four things you need.

A location, athletes, coaches and of course officials to make sure everyone follows the rules.

Recently, there has been a shortage of staff on match days.

“The MSHSAA (Missouri State High School Activities Association) has a shortage of officials across the state and we are trying to raise more awareness to find officials for basketball, football, softball, baseball and all the other sports,” said Missouri Basketball and Football Referee Heath Schneider.

The MSHSAA believes there are enough referees and assistant referees to meet demand this sports season, but concerns are growing as the older generation begins to hang up their whistles.

“The toughest part is right now the older guys are retiring and we can’t get younger guys,” Schneider said. “We need guys who are in their mid-twenties or thirties and we really want to try to get involved and associated with the sport.”

If this problem continues, it may start to affect the playing times of matches.

“If we don’t want referees at the games, high school games may have to be postponed or have a different schedule to ensure there are enough referees,” Schneider said.

Officials are asking fans or former athletes to apply for assistance on game day.

“If you love playing high school sports and enjoy sports, this is a great way to get involved in the community and show your support,” Schneider said.

If you would like to become an official representative, click here for Missouri and here for Iowa.