In a well-deserved recognition of her dedication and expertise, Shari Olsen, Territorial Umpire with Table Tennis North, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Officials of the Year Award by Sport North. This accolade celebrates Shari’s outstanding contributions to officiating on a territorial, national and international level and highlights her unwavering commitment to the sport of Table Tennis.
Over the past five years, Shari has been a cornerstone of the officiating community, lending her skills and passion to various events, from the NWT School Championships to high-profile competitions like the Arctic Winter Games and Canada Winter Games. Her consistent presence and reliability as a Territorial Umpire have earned her respect and admiration from players, coaches, and fellow officials alike.
Shari is very grateful about the recognition, “Officiating isn’t just about making calls, it’s about giving back to the sport we love. Witnessing athletes grow and share their passion on the court is truly rewarding.”
Receiving the Officials of the Year Award signifies a significant milestone in Shari’s officiating career, signaling her transition to the national level and opening up new opportunities for growth and development. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the rules and regulations of Table Tennis, Shari is poised to excel as she takes on more challenging roles and responsibilities as a National Umpire.
Shari’s passion for the sport shines through in her work, as she continuously seeks to enhance her skills and expand her knowledge base. Her proactive approach to learning and her willingness to mentor and support her colleagues exemplify her exceptional leadership qualities and dedication to fostering a positive officiating environment in the Northwest Territories.
As Shari embarks on this new chapter in her officiating journey, the Table Tennis community in the NWT is excited about the prospect of her continued growth and success. With her unwavering commitment to excellence and her passion for guiding and empowering others, Shari is not only a role model for aspiring officials but also a driving force behind the development of officiating standards in the Territory.
Congratulations to Shari Olsen on receiving the 2024 Officials of the Year Award, a well-deserved honor that recognizes her outstanding contributions to the sport of table tennis and her exemplary leadership within the officiating community. We look forward to witnessing Shari’s continued achievements and the positive impact she will undoubtedly make as she advances in her officiating career.