Sheriff Enjoys Working With Youth As Sports Official

The call is always right because Roosevelt County Sheriff Jason Frederick has the correct purpose in mind when he spends his weekends officiating high school football.

“Anything for the kids. For me, that’s my priority,” Frederick said about his dedication to sports.

He explains he started officiating 11 years ago when area sports refs desired to start an officials pool in Wolf Point. Deputies Jason Baker and Tim Lingle are also part of the pool that includes referees from Wolf Point, Poplar, Plentywood and Homestead.

“Actually, Jeff Kent of the Montana Highway Patrol actually started the pool,” Frederick said. “He kind of asked a group of guys, and we thought it would be cool.”

Frederick noted that he looks forward to working the games because he’s a strong believer of the positive elements of high school athletics.

“The kids need sports in their lives as they grow up,” the sheriff said. “It gives them hope and something else to do with their extra-curricular time.”

He feels sports can teach self-discipline, how to accomplish things on your own and are motivational. “Sports definitely help with life skills.” Frederick competed in football and wrestling during his high school days.

Frederick notes that the Roosevelt County Sheriff Office has a great tradition of being involved with youth sports including Little League football, baseball and soccer. Years ago, a grant helped purchase some of the equipment for these sports. He credits the late Richey McDonald Sr. for being a strong advocate for youth programs.

“My big thing is community policing. You need to have a rapport not only with kids but all community members,” Frederick said.

One of his favorite football games that he officiated was this year’s MonDak/Scobey thriller which was decided on a fake field goal to end the game. “That’s one of them. There’s been quite a few.”

He especially enjoys officiating contests on the artificial turf in Glendive. He likes the facility’s big scoreboard screen and lively music. He officiates all classes of football in Montana.

“I think six-man is a little harder and unique,” Frederick said. “Eleven-man and eightman are a little more routine.”

Frederick, who heads Poplar’s wrestling program, also officiates that sport. He takes pride that Poplar’s girls earned top honors at the first state championship female wrestling meet last spring.

“Being there for the kids is what it’s all about,” Frederick said.

He laughs that some Roosevelt County athletes do call him “sheriff” when he is officiating. “But all the kids are respectful.”

Of course, a few coaches and fans might display their frustration about a call here and there.

“I’m used to being responsive to the public,” Frederick said. “It doesn’t bother me when coaches or fans complain to me.”

He is one of only four officials in the football pool who is willing to be the referee or wear the “white hat.” He doesn’t believe any calls on the field have cost him votes for sheriff through the years.

“Maybe here in Wolf Point,” he laughed. “No, I think when the game is over and the heat is off, bygones are bygones. There’s no referee that’s perfect.”