The Green Bay Packers and the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) have announced the selection of Pat O'Brien, Nick Solum, Luke Gajewski, Jim Herson and Eric Chartre as the October high school football officiating "Crew of the Month."
The recognition is part of a joint initiative between the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the NFL to honor outstanding high school football officials across the country. The selected crew members were chosen for their demonstration of objectivity, fairness in rules implementation and commitment as officials.
- Pat O'Brien (Referee): A championship level official, O'Brien has officiated youth, high school and college football throughout his 40-year career. Away from the gridiron, he has been a leader within the Southern Wisconsin Officials Association and volunteers his time at clinics to help foster stronger relationships between local coaches and officials. He also teaches officiating classes at Verona High School and puts together weekly quizzes to ensure his crew stays sharp. O'Brien is from Madison.
- Nick Solum (Umpire): A leader both on and off the field, Solum serves as the football chair of the Central Wisconsin Officials Association. He recently organized a clinic to recruit more officials and help others improve their craft. Always encouraging continuous improvement, in his spare time, he reviews game film for his peers. Nicknamed the "rules guy," Solum takes great pride in mastering the rules of the game and sharing his deep knowledge with fellow officials. He resides in Merrill.
- Luke Gajewski (Back Judge): From middle school to college football, Gajewski is a dedicated official at every level of the game. His commitment to helping others improve their craft and build upon their experience is shown through the back judge training sessions and informative film sessions he regularly hosts. An active member of the Fox Cities Officials Association, Gajewski takes great pride in recruiting the next generation of officials. He resides in Kaukauna.
- Jim Herson (Head Linesman): A consummate professional to the officiating avocation, Herson takes great pride in his relationships with chain crews, ensuring they are well-prepared and understand their importance to the game. Coaches view Herson as approachable and appreciate his clear communication during hectic play. He is committed to ensuring safety in football and is vigilant while observing plays and players that push the limits of the rules of the game. Herson is from Marinette.
- Cody McLean (Line Judge): An active member of the Southern Wisconsin Officials Association, McLean is consistently praised for his strong game management skills and deep understanding of officiating rules and mechanics. He gives back to the game by coaching youth football, mentoring new officials and meeting with local programs to explain rules and address questions. McLean is a resident of Deerfield.
Additional officials will be recognized as part of a Crew of the Month in November. To nominate an outstanding Wisconsin high school football official, please visit this link.
About the High School Officiating Crew of the Month Program:
As part of a NFHS and NFL initiative, the Packers and WIAA will recognize a "Crew of the Month" in September, October and November. Each month, WIAA personnel will review nominations for five positions: referee, umpire, head linesperson, line judge and back judge. Individuals will be named as part of the Crew of the Month based on demonstration of objectivity, fairness in rules implementation and commitment as officials. At the conclusion of the season, five outstanding officials previously named to a Crew of the Month will be selected as members of a Wisconsin "Crew of the Year." All participating in NFL clubs' Crew of the Year honorees will then be sent to the NFHS and NFL to determine a national Crew of the Year. Each month's honorees are highlighted on Packers, WIAA, and NFL Play Football digital and social media platforms.
