Cassidy crushes it on the court

Kathleen Cassidy, one of our beloved social studies teachers, leads an astonishing double life. When she is not giving lectures or handing out homework, she officiates NCAA Division 1 basketball.

On Jan. 29, she refereed for the University of San Francisco (USF) women’s basketball game against Gonzaga University. The game was intense, leading to a score of 62-62 before transitioning into overtime. The USF Dons fought assiduously, but ultimately the Gonzaga Bulldogs secured their triumph with a final score of 74-66.

“It’s not an easy job, being an official, especially in games like this. I feel like, as a player, you have to play through the calls even if it’s not what you agree with. You know, they try their best out there, you can’t get mad at them,” stated Megan McIntyre, a guard for the USF team.

As the game progressed, energy was high all around the stadium. Despite the criticism that Cassidy faces as a consequence of being an official, she handles it impressively.

“Every time you blow the whistle, half the people are going to be happy, and half the people are going to be upset. But it’s the job, you’re there to enforce the rules. That doesn’t bother me, though. Sometimes, when coaches are yelling, at some point, sure it impacts me, but even if my emotions are really high internally, on the outside I try to stay very even-keeled,” commented Cassidy.

Cassidy has met many fantastic people that she continues to work with throughout her officiating, who have witnessed this diligence and sagaciousness. 

“I think Kat’s an amazing official. She’s extremely professional and knowledgeable. From what I’ve seen, she’s very student-athlete-centered; she prioritizes their welfare on the court. We like having her here,” remarked Stephanie Shrieve-Hawkins, the Interim Director of Athletics at USF.

In 25 years of officiating, there are many lessons learned that Cassidy brings into her teaching career and classroom environment.

“I’ve always been a fairly patient person, but officiating has really taught me to have a lot more patience. I think my communication style and ability to communicate have really improved. When you’re on the court, you have to be clear and concise. Those are both really important skills to bring into learning,” she reflected. 

One thing is for sure: balancing educating with officiating is a truly incredible feat that requires one truly incredible teacher.