Emails

Below are recent emails sent to all of CVOA (statewide), most recent first. Click on a title to expand.

• 2024-12-05 - Boys' volleyball registration is now open!!
  CVOA members,

  If you ARE a current paid and registered CVOA member for the 2024-25 Girls’ season and wish to be considered for boys’ volleyball as a referee, you will need to pay the $25 boys’ registration fee by using this link.

  If you WERE NOT a paid CVOA member for the 2024-25 girls’ volleyball season, but want to be considered as a referee for boys’ volleyball, please contact Deb County at [email protected] on how to pay your dues in the amount of $126.50

  If you do not have boys’ volleyball in your area, you do not need to pay anything at this time.

  Payment is due by February 26, 2025.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President
  
  

• 2024-11-01 - CHSAA State Volleyball Tournament, call for volunteers
  Hello all,

  This is a call for volunteers to work as Court Liaisons or Court Runners for the CHSAA Girls State Volleyball tournament on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, November 14-16.  If you have been selected to work as an official or you cannot commit to volunteer time, please disregard this message.  NO REPLY IS NECESSARY if you CANNOT work.

  Court Liaisons’ duties include overseeing the smooth operation of their court by ensuring that teams arrive at courtside at the assigned time, assisting the on-coming officials in conducting the coin toss, and explaining the ground rules to the teams and coaches.  As important, is to facilitate the post-match debrief with the off-going officials and prepare a written match report to the head official. Focus should be placed on what went well and what could have been done better.  Honesty and Tact should be the guiding concepts in both. Forms will be supplied for the debrief and match report.  This may be a new concept for some of you.  If you have any questions, please ask.

  Court Runners assist the Liaisons in duties that would necessitate leaving the court, such as locating the teams to be courtside at the appropriate times and any other duties the Liaison would require for the smooth operation of the court throughout the day.  Assisting the Liaison with the match debrief and match report will be helpful.

  If you are able, please reply to Rob Livingston, [email protected] or TEXT 303-884-6898.  

  Thank you for your consideration.

  Rob

• 2024-10-21 - Volleyball state tournament volunteers needed
  All,

  We are fast approaching the 2024-25 CHSAA volleyball state tournament to be held Thursday, November 14, Friday, November 15, and Saturday, November 16, 2024.

  We are in need of volunteers to work the scorer’s tables in one of these capacities:

     – Volleywrite (official record for scoring) web-based application
     – Paper score sheet
     – Paper libero tracker
     – Timer/clock operator

  If you are interested in volunteering, please reach out to

  Dr. Erika James-Bouwmeester
  Dean of Students
  Boulder High School
  (720) 561-2200 x3438
  [email protected]

   Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-10-21 - State referee selection voting is now open - Closes October 25, 2024
  CVOA Membership,

  Please support your peers by taking the time to vote for our volleyball state-eligible referees. 

  Please check your email or ask your area director for the link to the ballot. 

  You have until October 25th at midnight to vote.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-10-14 - CVOA referee post season eligibility list - Please very your name!!!!
  CVOA Membership,

  Today, the CVOA Executive Committee completed their verification process for eligible officials to referee as an R1 or R2 for the CHSAA post-season regional and state tournaments.

  We will be posting the eligible list of officials on our website at https://cvoaref.org/post-season/ within 24 hours.

  In the meantime, if you applied and believe you are eligible, please access one of the attached dropbox lists to verify your name is there.

      – Regional List
      – State List

  If do not see your name, but believe you should be on the list, you have until Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at noon to reply to this email as to why you believe you are eligible.

  The CVOA Executive Committee will contact your area director and reverify your eligibility status.

  Cordially,

  ​Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

  Dropbox file: 2024-25 CVOA Regional Eligibility List.pdf
  Dropbox file: 2024-25 CVOA State Eligibility List.pdf

• 2024-10-10 - CHSAA mandate reasonable accommodation for student athlete with disability - Example
  CVOA Members,

  The CVOA Executive Committee received a few inquiries on what an example would look like on a reasonable accommodation for a student-athlete with a disability.

  Here is a recent one for a student-athlete that may be D/deaf or Hard of hearing that uses an interpreter to translate the heard word into sign language.

  During the course of a game, the interpreter has the same privileges as an assistant coach per Rule 12-2-6, since they are acting in a capacity as a coach translating information between coaches and the student-athlete during the course of the volleyball match. An interpreter’s role is similar to other assistant coaches that take on roles such as: setting coach, blockers/hitters, defense, game management of subs/timeouts, and so forth.

  Rule 12-2-6 allows assistant coaches the following privileges:

      – Stand within the coaching zone during dead-ball situations. Between rallies, only one assistant coach at a time may stand and approach the court, all other assistant coaches must stay at the bench seated. Assistant coaches may take turns on who goes up to the line between rallies, it does not need to be the same assistant coach each time.

      – Ask the second referee, during a dead-ball situation, to review the accuracy of the score, verify the number of time-outs and/or number of substitutions used by their team, request the serving order of their team, or verify the proper server for the opponent

      – Great a replaced player

      – Attend to an injured player

      – Confer with players during time-outs

      – Spontaneously react to an outstanding play by a player(s) of their own team

  Then we add the CHSAA mandate to allow students with disabilities reasonable accommodation to participate in all CHSAA-sponsored programs including volleyball, we now allow the following modification for an interpreter:

      – The interpreter may when needed move up and down the bench area to be close to the head coach, other assistant coaches, or student-athlete to translate information between the parties.

      – This also may mean at times we will have three coaches near the sideline during dead ball situations such as between rallies where we will have a head coach, assistant coach, and interpreter. The interpreter may need to walk up to the head coach or other assistant coach to hear them to translate information to the student-athlete on the court, but then the interpreter must return to the bench to sit during live ball play.

  Please feel free to contact the CVOA Executive Committee or your area director if you have any questions.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  President
  CVOA (Colorado Volleyball Officials Association)

• 2024-10-09 - Encircling the court & entering the gym
  Hello All:

  Hope everyone is having a good season so far.

  It has come to our attention that we as officials are a little confused about how to enforce and or identify a violation of the new sportsmanship rule concerning teams entering the court prior to the start of the match.

  The purpose of this rule is it to address any pre-match ritual by a team that intentionally or unintentionally disrupts, taunts, or intimidates the opposing team in their warmup area.

  All teams (home or away) will need to adjust their run-around protocols by running directly from their gym entrance i.e. locker room using only one side of the court, and going directly to their side of the net for warmup. No penalty is assessed if they manage it this way.

  However, if a team uses both sides of the court, where they encircle and or run around the opposing team’s entire side of the court or run through any opposing players warming up, that would be a conduct violation, and the head coach is assessed a yellow conduct card.

  If an official witnesses any egregious violation of this rule, a red conduct card may be warranted.

  As officials, we do not get to tell schools or teams where they are allowed to enter the gym. Please do not over-officiate this, but be watchful as many teams are still violating the new application and clarification for Rule 12-2-1.  

  If a coach claims they did not know, this would not be truthful on their part. Every head coach was required to watch the coach’s presentation from CHSAA addressing this new rule application.

  Here is the link to the presentation noting on page 18 for our review https://cvoaref.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/2024-25_Volleyball_Rules_Changes_PPT_update-07.18.24.pdf

  If you have a violation of the rule, please complete the game report located at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO0BuycA4WzKI_0zYTSLzrJA7c-DRnd2abZGYH4FDtbUwRyA/viewform and we will get CHSAA involved to speak with the school.

  Please let us know if you have any questions.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird, CVOA President 
  Nici Akey, CVOA Rules Interpreter

• 2024-10-02 - Overhead obstructions/Switching Sides
  All Officials:

  As per an email sent out to all Athletic Directors this morning, Bethany Brookens has issued the following statement which allow officials to address concerns raised by opposing coaches on a potential overhead obstruction issue that may be present in a gym whose home team has not filed a waiver to allow teams to switch sides.  Her comments are below:

  —-

  As you are aware, Colorado has adopted the NFHS rule which states that teams will always be seated on the same side of the net, unless approval has been granted from the CHSAA office after proving that a competitive advantage occurs by not switching sides. (NFHS Rule 9-1-2, 9-2-2). 

  It has been brought to our attention that some host schools may not be reaching out to the CHSAA for permission. We are hopeful that this is simply an oversight, and we encourage all schools to contemplate if their gym does have a competitive advantage for the home team (i.e. basketball hoops, permanent ceiling fixtures, pipes, vents, etc. only on one side of the court).  

  If a school has not reached out to the CHSAA office for permission to switch sides, based upon a competitive advantage, the officials have the right to make an on-the-spot decision regarding the fairness of the court. The officials may and can make a decision that is in the best interest for competitive equity. If an official has to make an on-the-spot decision, they will reach out to the CHSAA so that CHSAA can send a letter of approval to the host school so that sides may be switched. 

  —-

  I have spoken with Bruce, as this came out this morning.  When he sent the email concerning the reinforcement of CHSAA’s previous stance, he was unaware of the issue that arose this weekend.  NFHS gives us 100% jurisdiction over the playing area as follows:  The court and the unobstructed space up to 6 feet outside the boundary lines of the court with a minimum overhead playing area of 23 feet.  In complying with CHSAA’s rule we will adhere to their directive to make a decision, if needed, and report back to them so that they can issue a ruling and communicate with the schools concerning future contests.  At the conclusion of the contest, send an email to your Area Director and Rules Interpreter so we can communicate with CHSAA in a prompt manner.  

  Regards, 

  Nici Akey, CVOA Rules Interpreter

• 2024-10-02 - Please review - Important volleyball rule & policy clarifications
  CVOA membership,

  I hope everyone’s season is going well.

  Please take time to visit the CVOA website. Our director of training and rules interpreter have lots of valuable information posted to help us do our jobs better and more consistently.

  We have a few items to clarify as we are seeing inconsistency across the state in how we enforce certain rules or policies.

  1) During warm-ups, there are no restrictions for the team that is not on the net on where they can go warm-up, except they need to be off the court, but they can be anywhere outside the court to continue to warm-up. Some officials and or coaches are telling teams that if they do not have the net that they cannot do anything but stand and watch the other team. This is not accurate and is not an NFHS or CHSAA policy.

  2) Who goes on the net first during warm-ups? CHSAA has it as shared time, visiting team then home team. However, the NFHS rule book lists it as shared time, home team then visiting team. Just go with the flow for the night and the host school gets to make the final decision. We will get this fixed for next year for consistency.

  3) Choreographed celebrations on the bench should be warned to cease, but not penalized unless the team refuses to comply. Take a soft hand in this, examples are players laying on the ground performing a skit is not acceptable, but teams that have one girl run along the bench slapping hands on a good play is acceptable.

  4) Teams that have the bench area charge the court in celebration of a good play is unacceptable. Celebrations from the bench are to be within the bench area and not near the sideline. Do not stifle their excitement but guide them on what is acceptable. A good rule of thumb is no closer than 3 feet from the sideline for celebrations.

  5) It is not required that all lines for the volleyball court are solid. It is recommended that the lines be of one color. There is only one line that is required to be solid and continuous and that is the attack line. All other lines may be solid and or shadowed. Do not require a team to put tape down to make all lines solid.

  6) Disconcerting: It is not in itself illegal for players and or bench personnel to say things when an opponent is about to play the ball including but not limited to live play and or contact of serve. What we should be aware of is the timing, volume, or inflexion of what a team is saying or shouting when the opponent is about to play the ball. If in the referee’s opinion the team is verbally attempting to distract the opponent to misplay the ball, that is illegal.

  7) Fans never have to be quiet when a team is attempting to serve. Fans can be as loud or obnoxious as their administrator will allow, as long as it is not derogatory. Remember this one is the host admin’s job to monitor not ours. Don’t have “rabbit ears” so to speak.

  8) No teams should be switching sides unless they have a letter from CHSAA.

  9) Playable areas: our strict jurisdiction what can be in playable area is up to 6 feet around the court. Anything beyond that may be ruled playable and if something interferes with a player’s legitimate effort to play the ball, call a replay. We cannot require fans to be off the floor in the bleachers. And we should never allow a coach to influence us to clear a playable area outside the 6 feet. But you can discuss it with host management if we deem it necessary, but 6 feet is the only portion we have 100% control over.

  10) “Toot and Scoot”, do not engage with coaches, players, or fans after the match. Rarely anything good happens in these situations. Please do not react or respond to anyone even if they are being unsporting. Just grab your stuff and get out the door and file any necessary reports later that night.

  Keep filing your game reports for items CVOA leadership needs to address. We are receiving lots of good information.

  Hopefully, these items are helpful as we head into the final month of the season.

  Please let us know if you have any questions.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-09-30 - Accommodation for disabled volleyball players
  Hello, CVOA membership,

  At your earliest convenience, please visit the CHSAA Documents page on the CVOA website (cvoaref.org), and view the video that has just been posted there, “Video: Accommodation for athletes with disabilities” (currently the last bullet item).

  This is required viewing by each of you.

  The presenter, Mike Krueger, Commissioner of CHSAA, explains how we, as officials, can meet the needs of athletes with physical or mental impairments. If you learn better with a written description, please also see the second-to-last bullet item on that page, “CHSAA Reasonable Modification Procedures,” which addresses the same topic.

  Thank you! I hope you’re having a great season! Remember to check the CVOA home page and your area’s specific page for up-to-date information, including the calendars. Another quick reminder, all CVOA-wide emails are viewable on the Emails tab along the top of the website.

  All my best,

  Larry Ruane
  CVOA vice president

• 2024-09-25 - On-The-Spot Reasonable Modifications Request
  Dear CHSAA Sports Official,

  CHSAA is required to share the following information with you.  Please contact the CHSAA Office if you have any questions or need further training or clarification on CHSAA’s “reasonable modification” and evaluation procedures for students with disabilities.

  * Please reference the document attached to this email [link instead] which outlines Article V of the CHSAA Bylaws addressing reasonable modification requests and evaluations for students with disabilities.

  Please also note the following information specific to “On-The-Spot” reasonable modification requests:

  On-The-Spot Reasonable Modification Requests
  If a student is unable to provide the required documentation (as outlined in bylaw 500) for a permitted reasonable modification at or during any CHSAA sponsored event, the student may request an “on-the-spot” reasonable modification from the head game official who is overseeing that event. The game official may grant such a modification if it is readily apparent, in the opinion of the official, that the modification is necessary to address the student’s disabling condition. In making this decision, the head game official is not and shall not be required to make a medical determination concerning the athlete’s safe participation. No game official shall be required to make any medical or safety determination that he/she/they is not qualified to make by reason of his/her/their training or education. In making this determination, the head game official may consult with a licensed athletic trainer or medical professional if one is present at the site of the competition. The decision of the head game official shall be final for purposes of the specific competition only.

  If a game official denies an on-the-spot reasonable modification, the official shall inform the coach and student that they can seek a reasonable modification from CHSAA through Article 5 of the CHSAA Bylaws. Denial of an on-the-spot reasonable modification request shall not be grounds to deny a subsequent reasonable modification request made to CHSAA under Article 5.

  Thank you for your time.

  Respectfully,

  Michael Krueger, Ed.S., CMAA
  Commissioner
  Colorado High School Activities Association

• 2024-09-24 - CVOA post season eligibility please review
  CVOA membership,

  We are fast approaching the deadline for post-season eligibility.

  Now is a good time to touch base with your area director to understand your status.

  You may access post-season eligibility requirements in the CVOA membership manual on our website at Microsoft Word – CVOA Membership Manual July 7, 2024 (cvoaref.org) pages 9 & 10.

  Below is the link to apply if you meet the CVOA post-season requirements: 

   

  The deadline to apply is October 10th at 8am.

   

  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CVOA24apply

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-09-23 - CHSAA CVOA Post Season Application
  Good Afternoon Volleyball Officials,

   

  Please use the link below to let us know you are willing to work the CHSAA Volleyball Post Season.  Please keep in mind that this is just one step in the process to get assigned to a postseason game and is in no way a guarantee.  The voting link will come out to you and the schools in a few weeks.

   

  The deadline to apply is October 10th at 8am.

   

  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CVOA24apply

  
  

  Thank you so much,

  Monica Tillman

  CHSAA Officials/Golf/Swim

  14855 E 2nd Ave

  Aurora, CO 80011

  303-364-1337

  www.chsaanow.com

  www.arbitersports.com
• 2024-09-15 - Coaches on the Sidelines
  Hello All:

  I received an email from the head coach at Front Range Christian in Littleton.  She shared with me the following concern:

  I have a question that has sprung up at today’s contest (9/14/24). The ref has told me that only one assistant can stand with the head coach during dead balls, including time-outs. She also said that only the head coach can stand during live play, rather than one coach in general.

  Can you provide me with a clear answer? Even the refs seem split on the issue.

  If she misunderstood in conveying her understanding of the situation, she has been given the proper ruling.  I am sharing the Rules pertaining to this in case our officials are not clear and she was misinformed.  

  She was correctly informed that only the head coach may stand during play according to Rule 9-1-1 and Rule 12-2-5.  It is correct that only the head coach may stand during live ball play.  Assistant coaches are not allowed to stand during live ball play even if the head coach chooses to remain seated.  

  Rule 12-2-6 addresses this for assistant coaches.   It is on page 52 of the current year’s rule book.
  One assistant coach may stand within the coaching zone during dead-ball situations. All other assistant coaches shall remain seated on the bench during the set except to:
  Item c: confer with players during timeouts.

  Rule 12-2-5   There are no restrictions on which team members may or may not participate in a time-out.  Team members are defined in Rule 6-1: Team members consist of all school representatives located in the team bench area, including but not limited to coaches, teammates, managers, certified athletic trainers, and the players. 
  All coaches and players at the bench may stand during a time-out. This is not the same as a dead-ball situation between plays which allows only one assistant coach to stand until the serve is beckoned.   

  Regards,

  Nici Akey CVOA Rules Interpreter

• 2024-08-23 - Flash Sale: $30 Off Annual Pass
  ———- Forwarded message ———
  From: Monica Tillman <[email protected]>
  Date: Thu, Aug 22, 2024 at 4:12 PM
  Subject: Fwd: Flash Sale: $30 Off Annual Pass 

  One Day Flash Sale – $30 Off Annual Pass Colorado high school sports fans, HURRY, this sale only lasts ONE DAY! Get an annual pass for only $49.99 (our best deal all year). The 2024-2025 season is underway. Secure an entire year of streaming and SAVE $94  compared to 12 months on our monthly pass. Click HERE or click the button below and select “Annual Pass” and the promo code “GameDay-30off” will be auto-applied at checkout for $30 off your first year of streaming*. *Annual pass will automatically renew annually at the standard subscription rate (currently $79.99/year) plus applicable tax until cancelled. You may cancel at any time to avoid future charges by going to My Account and clicking the “Cancel Subscription” link.* Subscribe Now! You can also try out the NFHS Network with a monthly pass. 2990 Brandywine Rd Suite 300 | Atlanta, GA | 30341 Please do not reply to this email. This email was sent by PlayOn Sports. Want to receive less email? Manage Preferences

• 2024-08-21 - CHSAA SMAC ALERT- HEAT AND HYDRATION

  ———- Forwarded message ———
  From: Monica Tillman <[email protected]>
  Date: Wed, Aug 21, 2024 at 12:08 PM
  Subject: CHSAA SMAC ALERT- HEAT AND HYDRATION

  Attention Athletic Directors, Coaches, Athletic Trainers and Officials:  Please forward this information to your coaches!!

  This email serves as a reminder of the seriousness of Heat Illness and the effect it has on our student athletes.  With temperatures continuing to be extremely high and the air quality being poor, we ask that you take time to review the below information immediately and please make necessary adjustments to practice plans, including additional and/or extended water breaks and cooling mechanisms to cool the body. When doing your Medical Time Out Huddles (school administration, coaches, ATC, and officials reviewing EAPS, weather, heat safety -cooling capabilities etc.) before EVERY CHSAA sanctioned event you should be discussing the need for additional and/or extended hydration breaks during game play when needed. School administration, coaches, ATC, and officials should work together to determine when the additional hydration breaks should take place. Obviously, Colorado only deals with high temperatures a few months out of the year, but it is important to take necessary steps during this time. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at jru@chsaa,org.

  Please see the attached SMAC Newsletter that was sent last week.  This is where you will find helpful resources and educational tools to share with your athletes and parents. 

  For complete CHSAA Heat Illness information, please go to https://chsaanow.com/documents/2022/8/9//SMAC_HANDBOOK_57_.pdf?id=1254.  

  DEFINITIONS

  Heat illness occurs in athletes exposed to excessive environmental heat. Heat illness can present as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. 

  Heat Stroke Prevention 

  HYDRATION

  Hydration Resource

  WBGT Monitoring

  Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) is an evaluation of heat stress used to measure the effect of temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle, and cloud cover on athletes. This differs from the heat index, which takes into consideration only temperature and humidity.

  A WBGT monitoring device can be used on the National Weather Service website: https://www.weather.gov/tsa/wbgt. At the top of the webpage, click on the top map, zoom in and click on your event location, then the WBGT will be available in green text on the right side of the map. Refer to the WBGT chart for guidelines on athletic activities within the State of Colorado.

  • HOW are you going to monitor the heat?
  • HOW are you going to modify the work-outs in the heat?
  • HOW are you going to maintain the hydration strategy?
  • HOW are you going to cool the athlete?
  • ICE BATH VS ICE BAGS
  • HOW are you going to activate EMS?

  AIR QUALITY INDEX (AQI)

  The AQI is an index for reporting daily air quality. It tells you how clean or polluted your air is, and what associated health effects might be a concern for you.

  MANAGEMENT

  • Distance runners should avoid running next to busy roadways.
  • Ozone exposure can be lessened by early morning workouts.
  • Athletes with asthma must be carefully monitored when AQI is above 100.

  Athletes with asthma should always have a rescue inhaler readily available.

  • Practices, contests, and outdoor activities should be modified or moved indoors when AQI is above 100 and consideration given to rescheduling or moving them when AQI is greater than 200.

  PREVENTION AND RESOURCES

  To check Air Quality in your area, go to https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/advisory.aspx

  Thank you, 

  Jenn Roberts Uhlig

  CHSAA Assistant Commissioner

• 2024-08-21 - CVOA volleyball season starts tomorrow - Please review

  CVOA membership,

  Here are a few reminders with the season getting ready to start tomorrow, Thursday, August 22, 2024.

  1) Officials who wish to be post-season eligible must complete their test by today, Wednesday, August 21, 2024.
  2) Officials who wish to be post-season eligible must pay CVOA dues by today Wednesday, August 21, 2024.
  3) Officials who wish to be post-season eligible must complete their regional clinic by October 11, 2024. We do encourage completing it by today, Wednesday, August 21, 2024, in preparation for the season.
  4) Officials who wish to be post-season eligible must complete two study sessions by October 11, 2024.
  5) Remember to enforce uniform compliance at the varsity level from day one, Thursday, August 22, 2024.
  6) Please review the undergarment rule modifications for the year. This applies to all levels, not just varsity. The rule modification may be found at https://cvoaref.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Uniform-code-modification-enforcement-2024-25-season_updated-07.08.24.pdf
  7) CVOA has created an interactive game report that covers numerous issues such as: Illegal uniforms, illegal undergarments, jewelry issues, facility issues, unsporting yellow cards, spectator issues, match issues, and partner issues. The link to this report is found at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO0BuycA4WzKI_0zYTSLzrJA7c-DRnd2abZGYH4FDtbUwRyA/viewform or on the front page of our website at www.cvoaref.org

  Thank you, Terry Porter, for creating our template, and thank you Larry Ruane for making it interactive on our CVOA website.

  Note: Once the form is submitted, the CVOA Executive Committee will review its contents and decide on any action that may need to be taken. Please submit this report for anything you feel needs addressed in the course of your match.

  Have a great season.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-08-15 - Recruitment card email address misprint
  Dear CVOA officials,

  You should have received your rulebooks in regular mail by now. Included in that shipment was a sheet of 10 recruitment business cards (these start out with “Do you love volleyball and kids?”).

  Unfortunately, the email address at the bottom of each card, [email protected], is incorrect. So, if you hand out these cards (I hope you do!), please cross out that email address and write [email protected] instead.

  Or, if you’d like to print out the corrected version, download the sheet from the CVOA Documents page on our website, available in both Microsoft Word (.doc) and PDF formats.

  Thanks for all you do,
  Larry Ruane (CVOA vice president)

• 2024-08-14 - Blue shirt update for purchase options
  CVOA members,

  Here is an update on the blue shirts.

  Hopefully this will answer any questions you may still have.

  Sport About in Fort Collins has completed their vendor relationship with Smitty and have a webstore that you may now order the new blue shirts with patch on it at https://sport-about.printavo.com/merch/cvoa-officials-2024

  If you have a local vendor that does embroidery for the CVOA patches over the years, you may purchase the shirts on Amazon and then provide them to your local vendor for the CVOA patch.

  Please double-check with your vendor before they put the patch on the blue shirt that it has the white background behind the logo. If your vendor does not understand have them call me at (970) 214-1798.

  Please let me know if you have any questions.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President
  (970) 214-1798
  [email protected]

• 2024-08-12 - Reminder - for your safety, check the referee stand
  Hello CVOA officials,

  As the season fast approaches, a quick reminder to always check the referee stand before climbing up onto it. I took pictures of a common type of referee stand to explain a common problem:

  https://photos.app.goo.gl/tghDGD6WZ73UMkPa9

  The first two photos show the stand set up correctly. The second two photos look almost exactly the same, but show the stand set up incorrectly, with the weight of the referee supported only by the pin. This is very unsafe! If it’s set up incorrectly, it’s easy to fix — pull the pin out, move the rear legs in slightly (toward the net post) so the platform is over the ladder crossbar and resting on it, then reinsert the pin, so it’s as in the first two pictures. I suggest mentioning this to the coach or other responsible adult so they learn to set the stand up correctly in the future. The safety of our players and officials must be a priority!

  Cheers,
  Larry (CVOA vice president)

• 2024-08-01 - NFHS video training links
  CVOA Membership,

  Please find two new training links from NFHS. 

  Officiating Volleyball: Line Judge Duties

  https://nfhslearn.com/library/videos/officiating-volleyball-line-judge-duties

  Officiating Volleyball: Using Wireless Communication

  https://nfhslearn.com/library/videos/officiating-volleyball-using-wireless-communication 

  We will also post these on our training page on the CVOA website for future reference.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-07-12 - CVOA Training Newsletter
  Greetings!
  It’s time again to get ready for the new CHSAA Girls’ Volleyball season!

  Your Area Directors should already have been in touch with you with dues reminders, training opportunities, and scheduling information.  Lots of exciting changes this year!

  Your rule books and pre-season information packets should be arriving within the next 2 weeks.  The annual rules exam is now open and available in your Arbiter Central Hub.  Remember, this must be completed before you can work matches. Below is a short, 20-question quiz to help you get ready for the test, courtesy of Referee Magazine.
  Dropbox file: VB_Quiz_2024.pdf

  Take a look at your uniform and equipment to see if anything needs replaced or upgraded.  See new additions for required uniform and equipment in the Membership Manual, available at CVOAref.org/CVOA Documents.  

  The Regional Clinic is required for post-season consideration.  Many Area Directors are choosing to do the clinic in a large group setting, which is recommended, especially for new members.  Contact your Area Director for more information.  If your Area is choosing to use the online option for the Regional Clinic, a very clear Step-by-Step document is available at CVOAref.org/Training.  Don’t try to take the clinic before consulting the very specific directions in the document.

  So, let’s take care of business and we’ll see you on the court!

  If you no longer wish to receive these emails,  please reply and you will be removed.

  Rob Livingston
  CVOA Director of Training

• 2024-07-11 - CVOA referee uniform - exciting news
  CVOA membership,

  The referee uniform has some exciting new developments.

  Referee uniform tops:
  

  The CVOA Board has approved starting with the 2025-26 season, yes one year from now, the following:

      – The default shirt for the regular season will be cyan blue with piping. The logo may be embroidered, removable, and or sublimation.

      – The post-season shirt will be cyan blue with piping. The logo may be embroidered, removable, and or sublimation.

  This gives everyone a year to prepare for the new default.

  We are currently working with our local vendors and Smitty Apparel to provide the highest-quality shirt options for you. This may take about 30 days to get everything lined up, so maybe don’t hurry out and buy one until all has been approved with our vendors and what they can provide.

  White and grey shirts will still be options for the regular season starting 2025-26, so don’t get rid of those.

  Referee uniform pants: Please note these new changes

      – Uniform trousers shall be dress style, constructed of wool, polyester or blend, solid black in color, not denim, corduroy, fleece, or cotton twill. The trousers shall be hemmed to the shoe tops and not gathered at the ankle.

      – If the pants have belt loops, an unadorned, black leather belt shall be worn. Large, obtrusive buckles shall NOT be worn.

  Please follow up with your area director if you have any questions.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-06-17 - CVOA Board election results 2024-25
  CVOA membership,

  Here are the 2024-25 CVOA Board election results.

  Vice President – Larry Ruane
  Director of Training – Rob Livingston

  Area 1 – Tammy Davis, Marc Bower and Ken Beltran
  Area 2 – Georgie Lameiro
  Area 4 – Kathy Cox
  Area 6 – Denise Greene
  Area 8 – Deanna Russell
  Area 10 – Penne Hamilton
  Area 12 – Mindy Finley
  Area 13 – Alma Grandpre, Roland Cook, Rick Kuper
  Area 14 – Talana Davis
  Area 18 – Kami Oliver
  Area 20 – Denise Close

  Have a great summer.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-06-14 - Area volleyball draw update
  Area 1,

  Good news.

  We are way ahead of schedule for importing schedules into Arbiter. We currently have 95% of the games uploaded.

  This means I will start assigning within the next 7-10 days. I then hope to publish the first round of games by July 1, 2024.

  If you have not done so already, please do the following:

  – Pay your dues
  – Update your availability calendar and profile for dates August 22 – November 1, 2024:
  – Login to Arbiter account 104524, “CHSAA – VB”
  – Go to Profile and make sure all contact information is accurate
  – Go to Profile>Sharing and make sure all check boxes are marked
  – Click on “Blocks” and update in full or part day blocks all dates you cannot work. With partial day blocks, please put in the time you leave from work/school/home. Do not put in the time you can arrive at the match.
  – Click on “Travel Limits” and put in the zip code of where you leave from with each corresponding day selected, distances on how far you will travel i.e. “20 miles”, then “save” to update travel limits
  – Click on “Teams” or “Sites” to block schools

  Please let me know if you have any questions.

  Bruce Bird
  (970) 214-1798

• 2024-06-12 - Volleyball dues deadline - June 15, 2024
  CVOA Membership,

  About half of the CVOA membership has paid their dues, thank you.

  For those who have not paid yet, we are fast approaching the first deadline to pay your volleyball dues, Saturday, June 15, 2024.

  This deadline is the first step to being post-season eligible.

  If you are not interested in post-season, you have until June 30, 2024, to pay without a late fee.

  If you are having problems, please contact your area director and Deb County, CVOA Secretary.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-05-11 - CVOA volleyball test part 1 is now live
  CVOA membership,

  The CVOA volleyball test part 1 is now live and available to all paid and returning active members Please log in to Arbiter account 103372 and select “Testing”>”CVOA Volleyball Test Part 1 – 2024-25″ to start.

  Each official will be given two attempts to Take the CVOA Volleyball Part 1 Examination and score at least 90% before the competitive volleyball season to receive the status of “Certified”.

      – Example: first attempt 74%, you have a second chance to get a 90%+
      – Example: first attempt 89%, you have a second attempt to get a 90%+
      – Example: first attempt 94%, the test is closed and that is your final score

  An official that scores at least 75% but below 90% will be classified as “Provisional” for the 2024-25 season, and will need to take the CVOA volleyball test closed booked next year.

  An official that scores below 75% may take the CVOA Volleyball Part 2 Examination to score at least 75% to be classified “Provisional” and be eligible to work as a CVOA referee for the 2024-25 season.

  There are 50 questions.

  The test closes on August 21, 2024, at 10 PM.

  You will have access to review your test starting on August 22, 2024.

      – When taking the test, you have one of two options:
  ​
               1) Wait until your books arrive July 2024

  Or

              2) Use last year’s rule book and then go to this link nfhs.org/sports-resource-content/volleyball-rules-changes-2024-25/  to access all new/changes to the NFHS volleyball rule code.

  If you have any questions, please contact your area director.

  Have a great summer.

  Cordially,

  CVOA Executive Committee

• 2024-05-14 - CVOA updates - Dues link is active
  CVOA Membership,

  We hope everyone is doing well as we head into the summer months.

  As a new season approaches, let us review a few important items.

  1) Your annual CVOA membership is ready for each of us to register and pay. Use Google Chrome for best results and go to Arbiter account 104524, scroll towards the bottom of the webpage, and look for “Click HERE to Register” 2024 CVOA Season. NOTE: this is the first step to being post-season eligible for girls’ and boys’ seasons. Your dues must be paid in full by June 15, 2024, to be post-season eligible. Per the CVOA membership manual, our dues are $126.50 for the coming year.

  2) Elections for the CVOA Executive Board are fast approaching June 1 – 15, 2024. If you are interested in running for a CVOA board position, please contact Deb County by May 20, 2024, to add your name to the ballot. Newly elected officers will take office July 1, 2024.

  3) 2024-23 rule & case books will be sent out July 2024.

  4) The volleyball test will be available July 2024.

  5) The CVOA Executive Board will be holding its annual board meeting on July 7, 2024, to prepare for the 2024-25 season. If you have agenda items you would like discussed, please contact your local area director. They are your voice.

  6) Take time to visit our website www.cvoaref.org for additional updates and information.

  Please let us know how we can serve you better this coming year.

  More updates to come as the summer progresses. Stay Tuned.

  The CVOA Executive Committee

• 2024-04-22 - Uniform compliance rule update #2
  CVOA Boys’ Volleyball Officials,

  Okay, one more rule modification and clarification for the remainder of our regular season including all post-season games at the regional and state tournaments.

  Reference Rule 4-1 Note 2: Each state association may, in keeping with applicable laws, authorize exceptions to NFHS playing rules to provide reasonable accommodations to individual participants with disabilities and/or special needs, as well as
  those individuals with unique and extenuating circumstances. The accommodations should not fundamentally alter the sport, heighten risk to the athlete/others, or place opponents at a disadvantage.

  Modification 1: Visible undershirts worn under the uniform top must conform to one of three color options.
  1.) Be one color that is similar to the dominant color of the uniform top.
  2.) Black
  3) White
  NOTE: All players that have visible undershirts must wear the same similar color. They may not have one player in a black undershirt and another player wearing a red undershirt. The team must decide on one color undershirt.

  Modification 2: Visible undershorts/tights that extend below the uniform bottom must conform to one of three color options.
  1) Be one color that is similar to the dominant color of the uniform bottom.
  2) Black
  3) White
  NOTE: All players that have visible undershorts/tights must wear the same similar color. They may not have one player wearing black tights and another one wearing white tights. The team must decide on one color.

  Situation 1: Player A in a red uniform top is wearing a white undershirt and black shorts with black tights extending below. Ruling: This is legal based on our adopted uniform modification. The undershirt’s color does not need to match the undershort’s color.

  Situation2: Team A teammates are wearing black shorts and Team A libero is wearing red shorts. Ruling: The libero will NOT enter the game until they wear a short that is like-colored to players on the court.

  Situation 3: Players are wearing black undershirts and a bench teammate is wearing a white undershirt. Ruling: The bench teammate with the white undershirt will not enter the game until they remove the white undershirt or match the players on the court with a like-color undershirt.

  Situation 4: Player A is wearing a black arm sleeve and a white leg sleeve. Ruling: There is no current wording in the rule code to address colors for sleeves. Sleeves are not considered an undergarment and do not need to be ruled upon for color legality. NOTE: A single visible manufacturer’s logo and/or single school name or insignia no more than 2 ¼ inches are permitted on each visible garment is the only rule that applies to sleeves.

  The schools are being sent the same message.

  If you have any questions on this rule modification/clarification, please contact me.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-04-22 - Undergarment rule modification
  CVOA Boys’ Volleyball Officials,

  Please review the below rule modification in regard to boys’ volleyball uniform compliance.

  Reference Rule 4-1 Note 2: Each state association may, in keeping with applicable laws, authorize exceptions to NFHS playing rules to provide reasonable accommodations to individual participants with disabilities and/or special needs, as well as those individuals with unique and extenuating circumstances. The accommodations should not fundamentally alter the sport, heighten risk to the athlete/others or place opponents at a disadvantage.

  Modification: Teams may wear a black undershirt under their uniform top no matter what color the uniform top is. All players on the team must wear the same color undergarment, either black and or the predominant color of the uniform top.

  Rationale: We are seeing funding issues with boys’ volleyball. Many of our schools require the players to provide their own shorts and or undergarments. The school is only providing the uniform top, which many of them are still using old uniforms and or what they have on hand, as the funding is not there yet for many of our schools.

  Many of the uniforms we are seeing do not fit properly. Allowing a player to wear the black undershirt allows them a level of modesty for their own comfort and does not put their opponents at a disadvantage. This rule modification will allow a player to only have to purchase a black undershirt, which is easy to find and low in cost.

  The schools have been sent the message that we will allow black undershirts instead of trying to match the predominant color of the uniform top for the remainder of the boys’ season.

  We will be submitting an NFHS rule change to incorporate this into the rule book for the 2025-2026 season.

  If you have any questions on this rule modification, please contact me.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-04-04 - Boys post season application - Deadline April 9, 2024
  All,

  If you would like to be considered for the boys postseason volleyball tournament as a referee, please follow this link to apply.

  The deadline to apply is April 9, 2024

  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/boysvbapply24

  Thank you,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2024-04-03 - CVOA Board Elections around the corner!!

  CVOA membership,

  We are fast approaching our annual CVOA Board elections.

  Important Dates
  
  If you’re interested in running for one of the CVOA Board positions below, note that the deadline to apply to be on the ballot is the end of the day on Monday, May 20, 2024.

  Please submit an email indicating which board position you’d like to run for, along with a brief bio not more than 500 words, to Deb County ([email protected]).
  

  Elections will run from June 1 – 15, 2024.

  Rules Interpreter
  
  Before we dive into the positions that are up for election, there has been some inquiry about the CVOA Rules Interpreter position that was vacated by the passing of Ray Lameiro.

  At this time, Nici Akey has been appointed and accepted the rules interpreter position for the remainder of our year. Per CVOA Bylaws: The Rules Interpreter shall be appointed by the President and approved by the Executive Committee to serve during such President’s term.

  The CVOA Executive Committee has agreed to open the application process to anyone who wishes to be considered for the CVOA Rules Interpreter position. All interested parties please submit a letter of intent to the CVOA Executive Committee.

  CVOA Board Positions
  
  Now on to our elected board positions. Per CVOA Bylaws, except for the offices of President-Elect and President, candidates may only run for one office and may only hold one office at a time. The newly elected officers shall assume office by July 1 following his/her election.

  Executive Committee
  
  – CVOA Vice-President, currently held by Tom Olnowich
  – CVOA Director of Training, currently held by Rob Livingston

  Both Tom and Rob have decided not to run for another term. We thank them for their years of service. We will surely miss them both.

  Area Director Positions

  Area 1 – Denver
  – Two positions, two-year terms, currently being held by Tammy Davis and Larry Ruane
  – One position, one year term, vacant at this time
        NOTE: 3 people will be elected

  Area 2 – Fort Collins, Greeley, Longmont, Loveland
  – One, two-year term, currently held by Georgie Lameiro

  Area 4 – Pueblo
  – One, two-year term, currently held by Kathy Cox

  Area 6 – Glennwood Springs
  – One, two-year term, currently held by Denise Greene

  Area 8 – La Junta
  – One, two-year term, currently held by Deanna Russell

  Area 10 – Durango
  – One, two-year term, currently held by Jeanne Sategna

  Area 12 – Craig and Meeker
  – One, two-year term, currently held by Mindy Finley

  Area 13 – Colorado Springs
  – Two positions, two-year terms, currently being held by Alma Grandpre and Nancy Holm
  – One position, one year term, vacant at this time
         NOTE: 3 people will be elected

  Area 14 – Burlington
  – One, two-year term, currently held by Talana Davis

  Area 18 – Cortez
  – One, two-year term, currently held by Kami Oliver

  Area 20 – Upper Arkansas River Valley
  – One, two-year term, currently held by Denise Close

  Please contact the CVOA Executive Committee if you have any questions.

  Cordially,
  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

   

• 2024-02-05 - CHSAA Reasonable Modification Procedures
  CHSAA Reasonable Modification Procedures

  Dear CHSAA Sports Official,

  CHSAA is required to share the following information with you every six months.  Please contact the CHSAA Office if you have any questions or need further training or clarification on CHSAA’s “reasonable modification” and evaluation procedures for students with disabilities.

  Please reference Article V of the CHSAA Bylaws, “Students With Disabilities” (pages 23-24), addressing reasonable modification requests and evaluations for students with disabilities.

  Please also note the following information specific to “On-The-Spot” reasonable modification requests:

  On-The-Spot Reasonable Modification Requests
  If a student is unable to provide the required documentation (as outlined in bylaw 500) for a permitted reasonable modification at or during any CHSAA sponsored event, the student may request an “on-the-spot” reasonable modification from the head game official who is overseeing that event. The game official may grant such a modification if it is readily apparent, in the opinion of the official, that the modification is necessary to address the student’s disabling condition. In making this decision, the head game official is not and shall not be required to make a medical determination concerning the athlete’s safe participation. No game official shall be required to make any medical or safety determination that he/she/they is not qualified to make by reason of his/her/their training or education. In making this determination, the head game official may consult with a licensed athletic trainer or medical professional if one is present at the site of the competition. The decision of the head game official shall be final for purposes of the specific competition only.

  If a game official denies an on-the-spot reasonable modification, the official shall inform the coach and student that they can seek a reasonable modification from CHSAA through Article 5 of the
  CHSAA Bylaws. Denial of an on-the-spot reasonable modification request shall not be grounds to deny a subsequent reasonable modification request made to CHSAA under Article 5.

  Thank you for your time.

  Respectfully,

  Michael Krueger, Ed.S., CMAA
  Commissioner
  Colorado High School Activities Association
• 2023-12-14 - Where to find the link to pay?
  All,

  When you login to Arbiter account 104524 it defaults to your future games.

  Scroll down below that game group and you will find the link to pay your boys’ volleyball dues.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird 

• 2023-12-13 - Boys' volleyball dues link is now active
  CVOA members,

  If you wish to work boys’ volleyball season in your area, and you are a current registered CVOA official for the 2023-24 Girl’s season, you will need to pay the $25 boys’ registration fee.

  Login to Arbiter account 104524 and click on the register link and choose boys volleyball. Then follow the instructions until you pay your $25.

  Payment is due by January 31, 2024.

  If you have any questions, please reply to this email.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2023-10-30 - Regional volleyball referees needed Friday November 3
  All,

  It looks like we will have a larger-than-normal group of regional volleyball games on Friday, November 3, 2023.

  Please make sure your calendar is accurate for Friday, including partial day blocks on when you can leave your job or school to travel.

  Some of our sites start as early as 10 am on Friday.

  Thanks,

  Bruce Bird 

• 2023-10-30 - Line judges needed - regional volleyball
  All,

  We are in need of line judges for regional games on Friday, November 3 and Saturday, November 4.

  If you can help us, please update your calendar including a partial day block for when you can leave work or school.

  Also, you can email me if you want to line judge.

  Pay is $45 per game.

  Thanks,

  Bruce Bird
   
  

• 2023-10-30 - CVOA referee uniform reminder - post season
  CVOA members,

  Congrats on another season.

  Thank you for your dedication.

  A quick reminder if you are working post-season as a referee or line judge, our referee uniforms must conform to the following.

      – White polo shirt (short or long-sleeved). White shirts with piping or trim are not allowed and no blue or grey shirts.
      – Black slacks, and if one has belt loops one must wear a black belt
      – Black shoes, no white trim
      – Black crew length socks, no-show black socks are not acceptable
      – Black or white whistle with matching black or white lanyard
      – White sweaters with CVOA patch, may be worn over the CVOA polo shirt during cold times when refereeing, no other color is approved for sweaters at any time including the regular season.
      – Year service pin may be worn on the right collar tab
      – CHSAA state championship pin may be worn on the left collar tab

  If you have any questions, please speak with your area director.

  Have a great post season.

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President
  

• 2023-10-27 - Special Olympics is Looking for Volunteers
  From: ArbiterSports <[email protected]>

  Date: Fri, Oct 27, 2023 at 4:46 AM
  Subject: Special Olympics is Looking for Volunteer Volleyball Officials for their Upcoming Event.

  CVOA Members:

  Special Olympics is looking for volunteer volleyball officials for their upcoming event.

  Please Contact:

  Michelle Fix-Westall 

  [email protected] 

   

  November 18

  Elevation Volleyball Club 

  12987 E Adam Aircraft Cir, 
  Englewood, CO 80112

  Play starts at 9AM

  All officials arrive at 8AM

  Breakfast, drinks, lunch included

  Likely ending at 1pm.

  It’s a wonderful experience and we get to meet some of the most dedicated athletes and their supporters.

  It’s a great experience for newer officials and it’s invigorating to be in such a positive atmosphere after the season draws to a close. 

  Thanks,

  Michelle
  [email protected] 

  

• 2023-10-18 - A Call for Volunteers to be LIBRO TRACKERS at Girls' State Championships at Denver Coliseum
  CVOA Officials:

  The Girls Volleyball State Championships are just around the corner and we are in need of volunteers to act as State Libero Trackers.

  Girls’ State Championships run from Thursday, November 9th through Saturday, November 11th and is held at the Denver Coliseum.

  Volunteers can request to work an entire single day or, preferably, multiple or all three days during the tournament. 

  If this sounds like something that would be of interest to you, please reply directly to Erika James at [email protected] with your availability no later than Thursday, November 2nd.

  Please let us know if you have any questions.

  Looking forward to a great State Championship!

  Regards,

  Tom Olnowich
  Member, CHSAA State Selection Committee
  

• 2023-10-17 - CVOA post season voting link - Deadline October 22, 2023
  CVOA members,

  Please take time to vote for your peers in support of their eligibility for state tournament assignments.

  Here is the link to vote.  Deadline to vote is October 22^nd at midnight. 
  Either copy and paste the link into your browser or simply click on it. 
  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/cvoa23vote

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President
  

• 2023-10-17 - A Call for Volunteers to be Court Runners at State
  CVOA Officials:

  The Girls Volleyball State Championships are just around the corner!

  We are in need of volunteers to act as State Court Runners during the three days of play from Thursday, November 9th through Saturday, November 11th.

  The responsibilities of State Court Runners are as follows:
  1. Between sets 2 and 3 of the current match on the court you are assigned, “run” and locate the two teams scheduled for the next match and instruct them to go to the court for the coin toss.
  2. Between every other set and match, do a quick “sweep” of the court you are assigned to.
  3. When not doing either of the above, relax and watch some high-level volleyball from the top teams across the state of Colorado from the best seat in the house!

  Volunteers can request to work an entire single day or, preferably, multiple or all three days during the tournament. 

  If this sounds like something that would be of interest to you, please reply to this email with your availability no later than Thursday, November 2nd.

  Please let us know if you have any questions.

  Looking forward to a great State Championship!

  Regards,

  Tom Olnowich
  Member, CHSAA State Selection Committee
  

• 2023-10-5 - Travel fee overturned - October 3, 2023
  CVOA members,

  Below you will find a detailed email from CHSAA overturning the $10 travel stipend to officials traveling under 20 miles living outside the Denver and Colorado Springs area. 

  It was brought to the Board’s attention that a number of schools were experiencing significant impacts from an item that was included in the Officials Fees Committee report that was passed in January of 2023.  Item “e” of section VI of the report stated the following, “If a driver lives less than 20 miles from the scheduled contest and is outside the Metro areas listed above in section B, that driver will be paid the $10 travel fee.”  This item was well intended and was an effort to assist assignors and schools when a shortage of officials was evidenced.  Although the intentions were very positive, the application of this mandate has caused significant financial burden on schools and school districts where this has been implemented. 

   It appears that this item did not receive the level of review and impact analysis from the membership that it would have benefitted from; this resulted in the fact that schools were not able to plan or budget accordingly relative to this mandate.  In addition, and in fairness to the membership, at the time there was a significant amount of attention and a strong focus being placed on the new multi-year pay structure that was being presented and eventually passed in January 2023.  This item (e) was not listed within, nor does it impact, the new pay structure.

  Due to the fact that this item has substantial financial impact on school districts and does not interfere with the adoption of the new approved pay structure; under the power granted to the Board of Directors under bylaw 810.6 the Board of Directors made the following amendment to the 2023 Officials Fees Committee Report:

  The Board unanimously voted to remove the mandate noted in letter “e” under section VI of the January 2023 Officials Fees Committee Report involving additional travel fees for officials outside the metro area.

  The Board unanimously provided a recommendation to assignors and member schools to continue to work together to support and remunerate officials as needed and when appropriate in circumstances where a shortage of officials exists.
  The Board unanimously supported a request to the Officials Fee Committee to continue efforts to identify the concern(s) that this mandate was intended to address; to provide additional data and analysis relative to possible solutions; and, if desired, to suggest language to be brought forward to legislative council in 2024 for consideration.

  Please do not hesitate to reach out to me or to Assistant Commissioner Mike Book if we can provide further clarification.

  We highly value the partnership we have with our high school sports officials and will continue our focused efforts to support them and to recognize the important role they play in helping us fulfill our mission and vision.

  Have a great rest of the week!

  Mike

  Michael Krueger, Ed.S., CMAA

  Commissioner

  Colorado High School Activities Association

  [email protected]

  303-344-5050 ext. 8

• 2023-09-25 - Obscure ruling refresher - Protect those lineups
  CVOA members,

  We have a situation that has come about recently, that requires a quick refresher on an obscure ruling.

  Who has the right to see a submitted lineup and when can they see it?

      – Prior to the 2-minute deadline for set #1 and 1-minute deadline for subsequent sets, only the referee(s), scorekeeper and libero tracker may view a submitted lineup.
      – Once the submission deadline has passed all other relevant personnel such as: coaches for either team or visiting scorekeeper may be granted access to either lineup.

      Note: Page 68 of the Case Book and Officials Manual.

  If either team accesses the opponent’s lineup prior to the submission deadline it may be penalized with a “Yellow Card” as a minor violation or potentially a “Red Card” as a flagrant violation, if a team uses the opponent’s lineup information to adjust their own lineup prior to submission. Rule 12-2-1 No player, teammate, coach and/or team attendant shall act in an unsporting manner while on, near the court before, during or between sets.

  Please keep those lineups secure, protecting the privacy of each team strategy until after the submission deadline.

  Please instruct your scorekeeper and libero tracker to keep them secure and private as well until the submission deadline has passed.

  Please contact your area director if you have any questions.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2023-09-25 - CHSAA/CVOA Post Season Application Survey

  CVOA Officials,

  Here is your link to apply for Post Season.  Deadline is October 5^th at noon.  Either click on the link below or copy and paste it into your browser. 

  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/23vbpostseasonapplication

  Thank you so much‼

  Monica Tillman

• 2023-09-25 - Post season deadline approaching fast - REMINDER!!!!
  CVOA membership,

  Any CVOA member who wishes to be considered for post-season assignments needs to have their requirements completed over the next week.

  Don’t delay and run out of time.

  If you are unsure of your status, please contact your area director.

  Here are the requirements to be eligible found on page 9 of the CVOA Membership Manual:
  https://cvoaref.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/CVOA-Membership-Manual-January-2022.pdf

  V. Post-Season Officiating Eligibility

      1. Post Season. The CHSAA volleyball post season is defined as all tournament games played in a Sub-district, District, Regional, and or State playoff setting (“Post Season”).

          A. All requirements to be eligible for post-season play shall be met 28 days prior to the first post-season competition date as set by CHSAA.

          B. A Members must meet the following eligibility requirements to be considered for selection to work as a referee (R1 & R2) during the Girls CHSAA post-season tournaments:

              i. Must be a Member in Good Standing which includes the following:
                 1. Returning members shall pay dues and complete the registration by June 15th of each calendar year;
                 2. Complete one (1) CVOA regional clinic;
                 3. Complete two (2) study sessions, one of which shall be during the competitive volleyball season;
                 4. Complete the CVOAE pre-season test by the first contest date for the competitive volleyball season and pass with a 90% or greater;
                 5. Shall be a certified member with CVOA to be assigned post-season games: one-year certified membership for District referee game assignments, two consecutive years of certified membership for Regional referee game assignments, and three consecutive years of certified membership for State referee game assignments;

          ii. Any current year an official is working counts as one of the qualifying years;      
         iii. Actively participate in the CHSAA sportsmanship pre-game procedure;
         iv. Complete the CHSAA mid-season test and pass with an 80% or greater 28 days prior to the first post-season competition date as set by CHSAA;
         v. Participate in any mechanics and or video review that is made available in conjunction with the mid-season test;
        vi. Apply for post season eligibility and update a post-season availability calendar in Arbiter account 104524 by the CHSAA deadline;
       vii. Officiate eight (8) varsity contests during the regular competitive volleyball season;
      viii. Officiate two (2) sub-varsity contests or twenty percent (20%) of a Member’s regular season schedule; and
        ix. State-selected Members shall be available all designated days of the state tournament, including the CHSAA clinic and the CVOA banquet.

  I look forward to seeing many of you in post season.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2023-09-21 - New CHSAA mileage and travel stipend review
  CVOA Members,

  As anticipated, the new CHSAA mileage and stipend policy is causing some confusion. 

  Here is the link on the CHSAA website. https://s3.amazonaws.com/chsaanow.com/documents/2022/12/5/CR6_OfficialsFees.pdf

  Below is a quick tutorial on what the new mileage policies state.

  Mileage compensation: 

  1.  Any referee travelling less than 20 miles to their game will automatically receive a $10.00 travel stipend. This includes all parts of the state not just the Denver Metro and Colorado Springs area.

  2.  If one referee travels less than 20 miles (one way) and one travels more, the one under 20 miles will receive the $10.00, and the one travelling more will receive $.50 cents per mile round trip or $1 per mile one way.

  3.  If both referees are travelling more than 20 miles (one way) whoever is driving furthest will receive the mileage, regardless of who actually drives.  In almost all instances where both referees are travelling greater than 20 miles, carpooling is expected.   

  4.  In an instance where two referees travel more than 20 miles (one way) to a game, and it is impractical for them to travel together (for instance a referee from Sterling and a referee from Fort Collins meet to referee a game at Frederick) both referees will be paid the .50 cents per mile round trip stipend or $1 per mile one way.

  5.  It is at the discretion of the assignor, in consultation with the schools, when and if travel together is impractical.  Referees may always decide to travel separately, but the single mileage will be paid to one referee and they will need to figure out the split between themselves.  If there is ever any question, it is a good decision to contact your assignor BEFORE the game.

  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

  Have a great rest of your season.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2023-09-14 - Athletic tape with writing on it, legal or not?
  We have a unique situation that is becoming prevalent across the state.

  The use of athletic tape around a wrist or finger that then has something written on it as a possible memorial to a loved one. This might be a family member or fellow athlete’s name that has passed away, or maybe it is something religious or of cultural diversity.

  We have a few questions to discuss before we can make a ruling.

      – First question, “Is athletic tape jewelry per Rule 4-1-7?”
            – No, Jewelry for the most part is a personal ornament, such as necklaces, rings, or bracelets, that are typically made from or contain jewels or metal.

      – Second question, “Does athletic tape give the player an advantage or present as a safety concern per Rule 4-1-5?”
            – No, athletic tape is acceptable to be used on any body part.

      – Third question, “Is this a memorial patch per Rule 4-2-1g?”
            – No, memorial patches are typically made of fabric and can be attached to the uniform.

      – Fourth question, “If an elastic hair control device on the wrist is ruled as illegal and considered jewelry, why is this not?”
            – Per Rule 4-1-7 and Case Book 4.1.7 the elastic hair control device on the wrist is ruled as jewelry and can be a safety hazard when worn below the chin. The player needs to remove it and or put it in the hair as it was designed for use.

  We live in a culture that is sensitive to how we rule on religious, cultural diversity, and memorial adornment.

  The use of athletic tape is legal in all aspects of the rule code. Why would we then rule it as illegal just because they wrote something on it?

  We don’t want to be that official infringing on someone’s right to their religion, culture, and or memory of a loved one.

  It is not our job to understand what the writing means to that athlete unless it is derogatory.

  Let us focus on why we are there each night.

  We are there to facilitate a game, fair to both sides in an environment of safety and respect for all.

  Cordially,

  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2023-08-30 - CVOA Updates
  CVOA membership,

  Here are a couple of updates, August 30, 2023.

  CHSAA will be mailing out the official’s pass to get you entrance into any CHSAA sponsored contest. I have been informed that they want to imprint your name on the card and mail it to you after Labor Day.

  NFHS is offering a 50% discount again to their NHFS Official’s Pass. It grants you access to any games they stream online. Please follow this link to purchase your NFHS Official’s Pass.

  https://cvoaref.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/NFHS-Network-Officials-Pass-2023-24FINAL.pdf

  Cordially,
  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

  

• 2023-08-28 - Email archive from CVOA Board
  CVOA membership,

  It is that time of year where we may see an increase in communication from the CVOA Board. Moving forward when this happens, we will then be posting that communication on the CVOA website. For example, emails from me will be on the president’s page; Ray Lameiro’s will be on the rules interpreter’s page, and so forth.

  We hope this type of archive list will help you when you need to quickly reference back without having to comb through your email box.

  Have a great holiday weekend coming up.

  Thank you for your dedication.

  Cordially,
  Bruce Bird
  CVOA President

• 2023-08-25 - Announcers, what can or cannot they do?
  CVOA membership,

  Announcers, what can or cannot they do?

  CHSAA sportsmanship manual 3.4.3 gives us guidelines on what is acceptable for announcers. Here is the link to the manual:

  https://cvoaref.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Sportsmanship_Manual.pdf

  3.4.3 – No musical instruments and/or amplified music, including drums, shall play while the game clock is running or when a ‘live ball’ situation is applicable by rule, whether the game is indoor or outdoor. This includes fanfares, drum rolls, etc. The only time the game, once started, is not “in progress” is during a timeout or intermission. This applies to the use of outdoor, in-gym, or indoor arena sound systems and public address announcements. The announcer is an integral member of game administration and is a reporter of information not necessarily obvious to spectators. Great care must be exercised to see that neither team gains an advantage from announcements over the public address system. Announcers are not “play-by-play” announcers.

  Announcers are the responsibility of the host management, and it is their responsibility to understand and enforce CHSAAA policy.

  We as referees should use common sense with announcers and not overregulate or focus on what they are doing.

  Things that may require us to suspend play to speak with host management about announcers is as follows but not limited to:

      – Statements that have a negative impact for either team
      – Statements that point out a team’s faults or miscues
      – Play-by-play that only highlights positive plays by the home team over the visiting team
      – Anything that interrupts the normal flow of a match

  Please let us know if you have any questions.

  CVOA Executive Committee

• 2023-08-25 - CHSAA sportsmanship cards - Don't forget
  CVOA membership,

  Please remember to hand the head varsity coaches your CHSAA sportsmanship cards with your name and your partner’s name on them during your pre-match conference for the varsity match.

  You are not required to give them out at the sub-varsity level.

  We have posted the template under this link in case you need to print more.

  https://cvoaref.org/cvoa-documents/

  This is important why?
      – It is required per CHSAA policy
      – It is one of the eligibility requirements for post-season
      – It eliminates coaches from approaching the referees after a contest asking for their name
      – It helps coaches remember you for post-season voting
      – It is a polite way to introduce yourself to the coaches for the evening

  Please let us know if you have any questions.

  Thank you,

  CVOA Executive Committee

• 2023-08-18 - Official Interpretation For Line Judge Positioning During a Varsity Match
  Official Interpretation For Line Judge Positioning During a Varsity Match.

  CHSAA has authorized permission for teams to remain on the same benches throughout the match.  This is per State Association Adoption Chart number 10 (page 70 current rulebook).  The exception is when a waiver from CHSAA has been provided to the officials to allow court switching.

  This has raised the question of whether or not line judges should be switching.

  Per Rule 5-9-2b line judges are to hold the same positions relative to the court throughout the match.

  There is no state association adoption that allows us or CHSAA to make modifications to this rule.

  Therefore, line judges will not be switching sides.

  The exception to this is governed under Rule 5-4-3a which states the first referee may replace a scorer, libero tracker, or line judge who is not properly performing duties as assigned.

  COMMENT:
  This may include removing and replacing a line judge completely or just moving them to a new position on the lines i.e. (switching sides of the court).

  Regards,

  Ray Lameiro
  State Rules Interpreter

• 2023-08-12 - CVOA Hall Of Fame 2023 Election Results
  CVOA Members:

  On behalf of the CVOA Executive Board, I am pleased to announce that Betsy Davison has been recently inducted into the Colorado Volleyball Officials’ Association Hall of Fame.

  Please welcome us in congratulating these recent inductees.

  Regards,

  Tom
  Vice-President, CVOA
  On behalf of the CVOA Executive Board

• 2023-07-31 - Switching sides Yes or No?
  All,

  At this time the CHSAA has adopted the rule modification to NOT switch sides during a match.

  This rule modification is in regard to page 72 in your rule book, “State Adoptions” line item #10.

  Cordially,
  CVOA Executive Committee

• 2023-06-7 - NFHS Part 1 test updates
  CVOA membership,

  Here are a few notes on the test.
      – New Rule and Case Books will be sent out from CHSAA in early July 2023 to all paid returning members.
      – Questions 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55 have a video link in the question. Look for the word “Video” and right-click on the word “Video” with your mouse and open the link in a new Window or Tab. If you click directly on the word “Video” it will open the link in the same Tab on your browser window and take you away from the test.
      – When taking the test, you have one of two options:
            1) Wait until your books arrive in July 2023
          Or
             2) Use last year’s rule book and then go to this link
  https://www.nfhs.org/sports-resource-content/volleyball-rules-changes-2023-24/  to access all new/changes to the NFHS volleyball rule code.

  Have a great summer.

  Cordially,
  CVOA Executive Committee

• 2023-06-6 - CVOA Volleyball Test Part 01 2023-24 season is now live!!!!
  CVOA membership,

  The CVOA volleyball test part 1 is now live and available to all paid and returning active members.

  Please login to CHSAA Main – Central Hub – Arbiter account 103372, select “Testing”>”CVOA volleyball test – Part 01 – 2023-24″ to start.

      1) Each official will be given two attempts to Take the CVOA Volleyball Part 1 Examination and score at least 90% prior to the competitive volleyball season to receive the status of “Certified”.

      2) Example: first attempt 74%, you have a second chance to get a 90%+
              a. Example: first attempt 89%, you have a second attempt to get a 90%+
              b. Example: first attempt 94%, the test is closed and that is your final score

      3) An official that scores at least 75% but below 90% will be classified as “Provisional” for the 2023-24 season and will need to take the CVOA volleyball test closed booked next year.

      4) An official that scores below 75% may take the CVOA Volleyball Part 2 Examination to score at least 75% to be classified “Provisional” and be eligible to work as a CVOA referee for the 2023-24 season.

      5) There are 55 questions.

      6) The test closes on August 16, 2023, at 10 PM.

      7) You will have access to review your test starting on August 18, 2023.

      8) NOTE: In the exam situations, Team S = serving team; Team R = receiving team. Additionally, LF = left front; CF = center front; RF = right front; RB = right back; CB = center back; LB = left back.

  If you have any questions, please contact your area director.

  Cordially,
  CVOA Executive Committee