Behind the Call: Why Refs Matter — And the Ones Who Wear the Whistle at Prevail

Opening Whistle

Every match begins the same way — with a whistle and a calm voice signaling the start. But behind that whistle is a person who loves the game, who shows up with focus and fairness, and who carries a deep sense of responsibility for keeping volleyball competitive, respectful, and true to its rules.

This week, as part of AVCA Spring Officials Appreciation Week, we’re taking a moment to say thank you. To the officials who keep the game moving. To the ones who make the tough calls. To the ones who show up before the teams and often leave long after.

At Prevail, we’re proud to have three staff members who are not only coaches and mentors—but also certified volleyball referees:
🟡 Kenny
🟡 Lanny
🟡 Alicia

They’ve seen the game from every angle—and their insight makes our athletes better and our club stronger.

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Why AVCA Spring Officials Week Matters

The American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) hosts Spring Officials Appreciation Week to recognize the essential role that referees play in growing and protecting the game of volleyball. It’s a chance for coaches, athletes, parents, and fans to pause and appreciate the people who ensure that matches are played fairly and respectfully at every level—from grassroots to the national stage.

Officials are often the first to arrive, the last to leave, and the ones in the middle of every heated moment. Their job is hard—and usually, the only time they’re noticed is when something goes wrong. But make no mistake: the game doesn’t happen without them.

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From the Stand: Meet Kenny, Lanny & Alicia

Kenny has always loved the mechanics of the game.

“I started reffing to deepen my understanding of volleyball. What surprised me is how much it made me a better coach. I can now explain why rules exist and help athletes play smarter, not just harder.”

Lanny brings a calm confidence to both the bench and the official’s chair.

“Officiating forces you to make quick decisions and trust them. That kind of pressure sharpens your focus. And as a coach, I’ve become more patient and respectful—because I’ve been in the ref’s shoes.”

Alicia appreciates the full-court perspective officiating offers.

“You see the whole game. Not just the ball, but the tempo, the communication, the intent. It’s changed how I coach. I’m more strategic, more observant, and I teach players to think like students of the game.”

All three have called matches at different levels—from high school to club—and bring that well-rounded experience back to Prevail every single day.

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A Bigger Thank You

To the officials in all sports:
We see you. We appreciate the preparation, the integrity, the poise, and the love you bring to every field, court, rink, and mat. You give athletes a fair chance to compete. You make games possible. And most importantly, you remind us that respect, discipline, and sportsmanship are at the heart of every play.

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Final Serve

We’re incredibly proud of Kenny, Lanny, and Alicia for representing both the Prevail community and the officiating world with class, composure, and deep love for the game. This week and every week, we stand behind the call—and the people who make them.

#ThankARef #AVCAOfficialsWeek #PrevailProud #GrowTheGame #RefRespect