Thirty years of exemplary service to student-athletes in the Buckeye State has culminated in the ultimate honor for Martins Ferry's Warren Hood.
Last weekend, Hood was inducted into the 2012 Ohio High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame. Induction ceremonies were held at the Marriott Hotel in Columbus.
Warren officiated high school baseball and basketball for 25 years. He umpired a remarkable 22 seasons at the district and regional levels and drew no fewer than 10 state tournament assignments.
"It's a tremendous honor entering the OHSAA Hall of Fame," Hood disclosed. "I totally enjoyed the experience - working both in Ohio and West Virginia. I was also fortunate to work alongside a number of highly-skilled umpires and referees right here in the Ohio Valley. It's truly a lifetime of great memories."
Also a longtime administrator and educator, Hood maintains close ties to his high school alma mater and is a lifelong supporter of Purple Rider athletics.
"The work I've done through athletic administration and officiating has enabled me to make a long list of friendships for which I'll be forever grateful," he remarked.
At the 2012 induction, a number of other Ohio Valley officials were recognized for 25 or more years of service. They include: Dirk Decoy, Bellaire (football); Jim Little, Cadiz (Baseball); Emma Caldwell, Beallsville (Volleyball); Mike Podlasiak, Caldwell (Baseball, Softball); and Tom Goduto, Cambridge (Volleyball).
