(KJCCC) April 8, 2024 – KJCCC commissioner Mike Saddler had a difficult choice to make.

Saddler had to replace 25-year veteran women's basketball officials supervisor Monty Applebee. Monty basically invented the position, and had selected and mentored a corps of young referees and veteran officials.

But Applebee retired at the end of the 2023-24 basketball season, and Saddler began his search for a replacement.

He did not have to look for very long, as several worthy candidates stepped forward almost immediately to replace Applebee.

Gary Pauls emerged from the stacked field, and was named the new supervisor of women's basketball officials for the conference this week.

"Gary's resume as an official is outstanding," said Saddler. "He has spent many years working in the KJCCC as an official, and has worked at national tournaments at multiple levels."

Pauls voiced his feelings about the profession of basketball official.

"What keeps me interested in officiating is my passion for 'what we do' and giving back to the profession that has been very good to me," said Pauls. "This opportunity gives me the platform to be able to continue the strong foundation and reputation of the women's officials in the KJCCC."

"In addition to our current procedures, I will be implementing new ideas and processes which will continue to improve the product we put on the floor," said Pauls.

Pauls has officiated at the collegiate level for 15 years. He begins the KJCCC supervisor position immediately. Pauls will coordinate game assignments, and oversee summer development camps. He will continue to referee at the high school level, and that will aid him in identifying new young officials.

"We will recruit and train officials so that our staff is in a position to maintain the highest level of refereeing," said Pauls. "My role will be to develop our officials, and work with the KJCCC schools, administrators, coaches, and players to create an atmosphere of cooperation and accountability." 

Saddler is confident Pauls is the right man to fill the supervisor's role.

"Monty Applebee did a tremendous job as the coordinator of women's basketball officials for 25 years," said Saddler. "Now we are thrilled to have Gary fill that role as he steps off the floor and into the coordinator role. Our member colleges will benefit from his experience, and we look for him to elevate our women's basketball officiating to new heights."