Nine individuals will be honored with service awards by the Minnesota State High School League for their decades of service and commitment to officiating.
Those honored with the 2026 Distinguished Service Award are Tom Boshart, Robert Crowe, Tim Leighton, David Madson, Dave Malley, Paul McDonald, Rachel Palmer, Steve Philion and Roy Ward.
These distinguished officials will be honored during the Boys Basketball State Tournament during the halftime intermission of the Class AA championship game on March 28 at Williams Arena in Minneapolis.
“All of these award winners are great officials, but more importantly, they have given so much to their Association members through mentorship and training, thus benefiting Minnesota State High School League member schools and participants,” said Jason Nickleby, who oversees the League’s officiating programs.
Paul McDonald. Years as MSHSL registered official: 35 A longtime member of the Range Coaches and Officials Association, Paul McDonald has been a respected leader for 33 years, including a 16year stint on the executive committee and numerous years as a trailblazer in the mentorship program.
He was a lead-by-example type of official on behalf of his association and assisted in the establishment of officiating improvement programs in Northeast Minnesota. He has also served the local community as a dedicated coach.
“Mac” is known throughout Minnesota for his devotion to officials and athletes, pouring his heart and soul into everything he does as husband, father, County Commissioner and MSHSL Board Member, to name a few of his roles. McDonald continues to serve as a League Regional Coordinator in football and as a basketball observer.
“He taught me not only how to prepare for success and treat the job with professionalism, but also how to treat and communicate with all people involved with the game,” said Kyle Lamppa, a fellow football and basketball official. “His communication skills with coaches, players and administrators are second-to-none. Relationship building is truly his superpower, and I’m grateful to have learned that from him.”
