For his consistently positive attitude, thoughtful coaching style, and always polite questioning of officials, Westerville North High School girls soccer coach Brett Weiss has been nominated for an Excellence in Sportsmanship award. Referee James Simpson submitted the recommendation following a match on October 5 when the Warriors played at New Albany. “I have officiated Westerville North at least six times in the last two years. I get to listen to the coach’s instructions to his players and they are always positive,” he wrote. “His questions for the officials are always polite. They had a very tough match tonight, playing to a 1-0 win, but their attitude and demeanor never changed. Always positive and directed to the game, not the officials. No unnecessary fouls, no disgusted looks on potential foul situations. Some questions, of course, but acceptance of answers. It was fun to officiate.”
Twenty-six years ago, Dr. Walter F. Ersing had the idea of recognizing character and integrity among high school soccer players in Central Ohio, as they participate in match play for their school. That vision grew into the Excellence in Sportsmanship Committee (EIS), which is made up of and supported by the members of the Licking County Soccer Officials Association and the Central Ohio Soccer Officials Association.
Each year since, the EIS Committee has held a banquet to recognize individuals who have distinguished themselves through their actions during high school varsity games. Character, integrity, spirit of fair play, conversational practice and attitude all contribute to how these players and coaches are viewed. If Weiss is selected, he will be recognized at the 25th annual Excellence in Sportsmanship Banquet held January 31 at Monaco’s Palace in Columbus.