Michigan youth sports suffering from referee shortage

The state of Michigan is facing a referee shortage as students are going back to school this fall. 

Referee, Andrew Hayner says parents at the youth levels heckle the referees, contributing to the shortage.  

"They're kind of living vicariously through them. They let the moment get out of hand and if things don't go their way they're looking for someone to blame. Whether it's another parent, coach or referee," said Hayner.  

Economic factors also affect the shortage.  

During the recession in 2008, Michigan had 12,800 officials. That number fell to 8,000 after COVID-19. 

That number spiked back up to 9,000 referees in the last two years.