CLIFTON PARK, NY — Local youth sports programs in Clifton Park are getting $7,000 back after a recent fine related to hiring young referees. The New York State Department of Labor has decided to return the money to the affected organizations following questions around the employment of game officials under age 14.
The original fine came after an audit found that referees under 14 were being used in Clifton Park sports leagues. These leagues often include players from Shen and the broader Shenendehowa community. In early May, the Department of Labor ordered that all referees, umpires, and game officials under 14 be removed from their roles immediately.
However, the state clarified that certain nonprofit groups can use volunteers, prompting a review of the initial penalties. Clifton Park Town Supervisor Phil Barrett thanked the Department of Labor for what he described as a “reasoned decision” and welcomed the return of funds to local youth sports.
Barrett is now urging the state to create a formal exemption allowing trained youth under 14 to continue serving as referees and officials. He noted that these roles have long been a tradition in youth sports across Clifton Park and Shenendehowa, offering young athletes early leadership experience.
This decision brings relief to many involved in Clifton Park sports and could help preserve key opportunities for Shen students looking to stay engaged with athletics outside of regular competition.
