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Officials shortage could sideline Craig County middle school softball season
Summary
Officials association scheduling deadlines mean the region may not supply umpires for middle school softball this season; the superintendent told the board that scheduled games may not be sanctioned though practices could continue, and the board discussed clarifying athletic eligibility and grading timelines.
Craig County Public Schools staff told the school board on Tuesday that regional officials may not be available to officiate middle school softball games this season because scheduling deadlines were missed, a development that could leave students without sanctioned games even as practices continue.
The presenter said the regional officials organization informed the division that schedules needed to be submitted by Jan. 31; because the deadline was not met the officials body told the presenter it likely could not provide officials for middle school contests this season. “I don’t think that that middle school will happen for really anybody,” the presenter said, adding the division will continue to support practices but warned sanctioned games may be unavailable.
Board members discussed implications for student eligibility and the athletic participation policy, noting ambiguity about when students become eligible during a season if grades change. The division’s athletic director has implemented a weekly grade‑check form (Fridays) to monitor academic eligibility; the presenter said the weekly checks will be reflected in a proposed policy update to provide clearer timelines.
Board members also noted VHSL rules about hiring non‑employee coaches and said any in‑house coaching exemptions require approvals or waivers from VHSL. Staff said they will draft clarified language about eligibility timelines, grading timelines and parent notification and return that language to the board for review.
What’s next: The division will draft a policy clarifying eligibility timelines and procedures, pursue coaches‑hiring compliance with VHSL where needed, and consult coaches and parents about how to manage a season with limited or no sanctioned games.
