Letters

GSL will miss Ryan

I am sorry to learn that Randy Ryan is retiring. As much of his work was done behind the scenes, many have little or no idea at all what Randy has done for GSL sports. 

As an observer-evaluator for the football officials’ association, it has been my privilege to work closely with Randy for the past several years. Randy always concentrated on what he believed to be the best for GSL athletes.

His chief concern has been, “What will be best for our schools and our kids?”

Most fans would be surprised to know Randy had to fill in on the “chain gang” from time to time when a regular member of the crew did not show up. It does not make any difference whether it is a beautiful warm evening, a drenching rain or a snow storm, Randy will be right there running up and down the field carrying a down box or a yardage chain.

I vividly recall a night a couple of years ago when Albi Stadium had a dense fog with near-zero visibility. The playing field was barely visible from the press box. Randy went down to the playing field with his cell phone and called the play up to the P.A. announcer, who relayed the play along to the fans. When the crowd heard, “Tackle by Wilson after a 3-yard gain by Smith,” the fans were stunned that the announcer could see who made the tackle when even the field was invisible to most of the spectators.

That is just one example of what Randy would do for the players and fans. He will be sorely missed.

What the world needs is more Randy Ryans!

Jack Shagool

Spokane