Rowan students earn national recognition as NIRSA basketball officials

Two Rowan University students officiated at the National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) Basketball Championships, held April 17 to 19 at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Nick Liu and Sean Woodside earned spots in the tournament, which recognizes the top student officials in the country, marking Rowan’s first national representation since 2009. 

During the nationwide NIRSA Championship Series, officials are evaluated on mechanics, communication, game management and professionalism at regional tournaments with only a select group advancing to nationals. 

Woodside, a senior mathematics major and program coordinator for Rowan’s intramural sports, began officiating fall 2022 after getting involved at the Student Recreation Center. Encouraged by coworkers and mentors, he attended his first officials clinic at the University of Delaware earlier this year, gaining exposure to different officiating styles.

The regional championship at the University of Maryland was his first NIRSA tournament. After officiating the women’s final, Woodside was named one of four top officials at the event, earning an automatic bid to nationals. At the regional level, he managed highly competitive, emotionally charged games while maintaining control amid challenged calls.

For Woodside, the opportunity to officiate at nationals carried both personal and institutional significance.

“I feel really proud to represent Rowan, and I am going to try my best to live up to the hype.” Woodside said.  

Sean Woodside (left) jogs along with a play during the NIRSA tournament

While Woodside advanced to nationals through the regional selection process, Liu followed a parallel path within Rowan’s Campus Recreation program. A first-year MBA student and graduate coordinator for intramural sports and special events, Liu developed his officiating through Campus Recreation and mentorship from program leaders. He credits that support for shaping his growth as an official and leader.

Liu said the experience reflects both personal growth and the support system around him.

“Being named an All-Tournament Official reflects the time and effort I have put into improving as an official, and how far I have come since I first started,” Liu said.

Nick Liu (left) with Andrew Havrisko following NIRSA tournament 

Assistant Director of Intramural Sports and Special Events Andrew Havrisko said the achievement demonstrates both individual dedication and the strength of Rowan’s officiating program.

“This is the first time that I can remember where we have sent two officials to a national tournament in the same year, and I think that speaks volumes to the work that both of them have put in this year,” Havrisko said.

Both students showcased the consistency and professionalism required to stand out at the regional level. Havrisko emphasized how competitive the selection process is.

“Each of them were able to work with a variety of officials from other institutions and managed to stand out to the clinicians and evaluators on site to be worthy of recognition as one of the top officials of the tournament,” Havrisko said.

Havrisko highlighted Woodside’s strengths, pointing to his preparation, composure and ability to make accurate calls under pressure.

“Sean is very reliable as a partner, extremely easy to talk to and get along with, and is someone who other officials are always excited to work with,” Havrisko said.

He also noted Liu’s strengths in communication and game management, explaining that his experience as a high-level soccer official translates well to the basketball court.

“Nick is someone who excels at the communication and game management aspect of officiating basketball,” Havrisko said.

Liu said representing Rowan on a national stage carries meaning beyond individual recognition.

“When I attend these events, I am representing Rowan Campus Recreation, the Intramural Sports program, my supervisors, coworkers, student staff, and everyone who has supported my growth,” Liu said.

Havrisko said these experiences help students develop skills beyond the court.

“Our program within campus recreation is one that people in NIRSA know and respect,” he said.

Their achievement highlights both Liu and Woodside’s individual growth and the continued strength of Rowan’s Campus Recreation program, which provides intramural and club sports, fitness and wellness offerings and student leadership opportunities across campus. Learn more.