The Green Bay Packers and the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) have announced the selection of Steve Luedeman, Bill Haling, Travis Brown, Dale Konwinski and Cody McLean as the September 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.
- Steve Luedeman (Referee): Luedeman exemplifies a strong commitment to continuous improvement, mentorship and the development of new officials through his long-standing involvement with the Green Bay Officials Association and the Football Sports Committee. Over the course of his career, he has officiated at every level of the game – from Pop Warner to college football and arena football – and has worked numerous college playoff games, indoor football championships and WIAA state championship contests. A resident of Crivitz, Luedeman officiates on Friday nights to give back to the game he loves.
- Bill Haling (Umpire): New to officiating, Haling demonstrates a strong commitment to continuous improvement by immersing himself in the officiating community – attending clinics and meetings, and seeking mentorship as a lifelong learner dedicated to refining his craft. He credits his mentors for their guidance, support and patience as he continues to master rules and interpretations. A former coach, Haling now serves as an active member of the Central Wisconsin Officials Association (CWOA). He resides in Wausau.
- Travis Brown (Back Judge): Brown exemplifies mentorship and dedication to the game by sharing his passion and experience with others, helping train new officials at the annual CWOA clinic and working non-varsity games to support the development of youth football officials. A true student of the game, he is committed to continuous improvement and advancing his knowledge and mechanics. His crew members describe him as an outstanding official and a valuable asset to their team. Brown is a resident of Wausau.
- Dale Konwinski (Head Linesman): Konwinski is a WIAA master-ranked official with more than 26 years of experience. He has shown a strong commitment to giving back to the sport by leading annual rules clinics for high school teams and discussing NFHS points of emphasis. Konwinski is also known for providing valuable feedback to new officials and for fostering positive relationships with coaches through his steady presence and patient, productive sideline communication. Konwinski resides in Chippewa Falls.
- Cody McLean (Line Judge): Beyond officiating, McLean gives back to the game by running a youth flag football program and coaching at levels ranging from fifth grade through high school. He also serves his community by speaking to high school officiating classes and sharing insights and experiences from his officiating journey. Coaches describe McLean as a person of high character and discipline, with a unique ability to connect with athletes of all ages. He is a resident of Markesan.
Additional officials will be recognized as part of a Crew of the Month in October and 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.
