The State Referee Committee held its annual Awards and Appreciation Banquet on March 19 at the Marriott – Airport.  The annual celebration recognized referee of the year honorees and inductees into the PA West Soccer Referee Hall of Fame.

Blackhawk’s Aubrey Blackburn was recognized as the Youth Female Referee of the Year. The Young Male Referee of the Year honor went to Stephen Doering of Steel Valley. Guy Mattola was cited for his service to the game as the Adult Referee of the Year.

Hall of Fame inductees recognized were Richard Lenhart, Phil Thomas, and Jim Thomson.  Mr. Lenhart has always been available to help the game from mentoring young referees to officiating countless matches; he most recently served on the SRC as the West District Referee Rep.  Mr. Thomas officiated a wide range of games, mentored and assessed officials, and served as the State Youth Referee Administrator before retiring. Mr. Thomson’s long tenure with the whistle includes serving as an assessor and instructor, working USL games, and a tenure as State Director of Referee Instruction. 

Peggy Nelson inducts Rich Lenheart into the PA West Soccer Referee Hall of Fame. 

Adult Vice President Michael Hill (left) presents Guy Mattole (right) with the Adult Referee of the Year award. 

Darth Newman (left) presents Aubrey Blackburn of Blackhawk Area Soccer Association with the Young Female Referee of the Year award. 

Darth Newman (left) presents Stephen Doering of Steel Valley Soccer the Young Male Referee of the Year award. 

Peggy Neason inducts Jim Thomson into the PA West Soccer Referee Hall of Fame.