BROCKWAY, Pa. – During the District 9 football playoffs this past weekend, District 9 honored a pair of officials who have been arbitrating games for at least 50 years.
On Friday, Oct. 23, prior to the Ridgway at Brookville District 9 Class 2A semifinal game, Dick Neese of Punxsutawney was honored for 50 years of service. Brookville athletic director Dave Osborn, a member of the District 9 Committee, presented Neese, who was officiating the final football game of his career, a plaque from the District.
Then, on Saturday, Oct. 24, at halftime of the Clearfield vs. St. Marys District 9 Class 3A championship game, Barry Abbott of DuBois was honored with a 50-year service award. District 9 football chair Bob Tonkin, a former member of the District 9 committee and the current Secretary/Treasurer of the District, presented Abbott with the award.