Metro Detroit Crew Recognized as September's "Crew of the Month" by Lions, MHSAA

By Geoff Kimmerly
MHSAA.com senior editor

September 29, 2026

A Metro Detroit football officiating crew has been named the inaugural Michigan “High School Officiating Crew of the Month” by the Detroit Lions.

Shelby Township’s Mike Gentry and Craig Goepper, Grosse Pointe Woods’ David Prince, Ann Arbor’s Shane Smith, Roseville’s Scott Suminski and Jordan Pearson, and St. Clair Shores’ Carson Roose make up the crew, which combined has been part of officiating 10 MHSAA Finals, nine Semifinals and more than 50 District Finals. Gentry received the MHSAA’s Vern L. Norris Leadership in Officiating Award in 2017.

The crew also was recognized for its dedication to the avocation, participation as members of the Motor City Area Officials Association and recruitment of new officials. 

The Lions, in partnership with the MHSAA and National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), will recognize an officiating crew monthly this season.

Be the Referee: Cross Country Interference

By Paige Winne
MHSAA Director of Brand Management

October 31, 2023

Be The Referee is a series of short messages designed to help educate people on the rules of different sports, to help them better understand the art of officiating, and to recruit officials.

Below is this week's segment – Cross Country Interference - Listen

I am running a great race at Michigan International Speedway. I’m about two miles into the 3.1-mile event, and I am on track to set a PR for the season.

As I run towards the next turn, a runner a few steps to my left, cuts right in front of me, causing me to slow down and nearly stumble. I regain my balance and keep going – but lose precious seconds during the altercation. Is interfering with a runner a penalty?

It is. If a race official sees a runner bump, trip, or run across another runner’s path causing them to change course or lose their natural rhythm, it’s interference. The runner charged with interference is disqualified. The runner who was interfered with continues on with his or her race.

Previous Editions

Oct. 24: Soccer Overtime - Listen
Oct. 17: Tennis Spin - Listen
Oct. 10: Blocked Kick - Listen
Oct. 3: Volleyball Double & Lift - Listen
Sept. 26: Registration Process - Listen
Sept. 20: Animal Interference - Listen
Sept. 13: Feet Rule on Soccer Throw-In - Listen
Sept. 6: Volleyball Jewelry - Listen
Aug. 30: Football Rules Similarities - Listen
Aug. 23: Football Rules Differences - Listen