For many years, the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO) has sounded its whistle in the fight against cancer. This year, cancer has struck close to home for IAABO Board 150 (Aroostook County). The wife of one of our dedicated veterans was recently diagnosed with cancer and has the long fight of surgery, chemo, radiation and other treatments ahead of her. We cannot provide the treatment and care she will need, but we can help ease the financial burden they will face.

IAABO Board 150 for many years have donated their game fees during Officials vs Cancer week; this year that week is Jan 23rd-28th. Officials across Aroostook county will be donating an $82 game fee this week to one of our own; a colleague, a friend, a brother, a father, and a husband. Though we are choosing to keep their identity anonymous to give them privacy, we want you to know WHO this family truly is to this community. This official has decades of experience across multiple sports providing the opportunity for our children to have sports. They are strong leaders in their church and are leaning heavily on their faith right now. They are foster parents providing a home to struggling children in need. They are the type of people you want there for you in your time of need; now it's our chance to help them in their time of need.

There is no question our officials are in shortage across the country. They face many things on the court like the effort they provide to get the job done while being booed and yelled at...all for 82 dollars. So on behalf of IAABO Board 150, we are asking you to join us in the 82-dollar challenge. Our officials will all be donating $82 to this cause...we challenge you to meet our $82 donation towards this great cause. Certainly, all sizes of donations are welcome, but we hope to unite our officials, schools, coaches, players, and fans in this effort.

We thank you in advance,

IAABO Board 150