Congratulations, Bill! 
RACINE, Wis. — Big Ten football referee Bill LeMonnier will be honored in July with NASO’s top award, the coveted Gold Whistle.
LeMonnier will be the 26th recipient of the award, presented to a person or organization for contributions to the officiating industry.
The presentation is set for July 30 at the Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids, Mich., site of the NASO Sports Officiating Summit. The award ceremony is part of the Celebrate Officiating Gala that culminates the annual Summit.
LeMonnier, 64, who resides in Tinley Park, Ill., is a former educator. For many years he has used skills learned in that field to become a popular and skilled clinician. He has spoken at camps on every continent on which football is played and officiated.
“The selection of Bill LeMonnier as this year’s recipient was an easy one and it was unanimous,” said Barry Mano, NASO president. “Bill’s passion for football and for those who officiate football at any level is without parallel. He has been and remains a beacon for all of us in this industry.”
LeMonnier has mentored countless officials and served as an advocate for those who choose to advance. He is a “go-to guy” for fellow officials who have questions regarding rules, mechanics and philosophy.
LeMonnier is one of the writers of the annual CFO national football test. NASO board member Claire Roberts says that is "just another example of a way in which he gives back and cares passionately about the game. He provides testing that the very top-level football officials take every year as well as provides testing and training for those starting out at the youth level. He does so without fanfare."
“I am humbled and in shock,” LeMonnier said. “I understand I am the first college football representative to receive the Gold Whistle. That makes it even more special.”
