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.
Steve Philion
City: Red Lake Falls
Years as MSHSL registered official: 50
Philion is a longtime leader of the Red Lake Falls Officials Association who has also served the local community as a dedicated coach for 52 years. Philion’s servant leadership includes roles as assigner, mentor, clinician and numerous years as a torchbearer in the mentorship program. He is a man of principle and integrity who has assisted in the establishment of several officiating improvement initiatives in Northwest Minnesota. Philion has earned the loyalty and undisputed respect of coaches, athletes and officials throughout Region 8. He continues to serve as a League Regional Coordinator in football and is a postseason mainstay in football, volleyball and softball.
“His versatility across multiple sports speaks to his dedication and deep understanding of officiating standards and, most importantly, giving of his own time to ensure student-athletes have a chance to compete in the fall, winter and spring,” said Kevin Kuznia, Stephen-Argyle Central principal.
Philion, who is also the head coach for the Red Lake County Rebel Boys Basketball team, will play in the first round of the State Class A Boys Basketball tournament on Thursday, March 26 at 5:00 p.m. against Liberty Classical. You can hear the game on KROX Radio.
