Jim Massar Award began in 1986. Jim Massar is, without a doubt one of the most respected officials ever to come out of the Flint, Michigan area. As an offiical, Jim was considered to be "the most knowledgeable basketball rules man". He always believed in being both mentally and physically prepared to work a game. There was absolutely no excuse for an official to ever be late for a game or not having "back-up" equipment in the event that some part of his attire became faulty during the administration of the game. Someone once asked Jim what he would do if the fan belt on his car was to break on the way to a game. Jim response was simple and swift: "No problem! I would have left for the game early enough to give myself enough time to get the extra belt from my trunk and install it."

Jim officiated for 45 years working the State Finals in 1954 and 1955. His mind set was simple "How can I help the guy sitting next to me to become a better official?". Jim drove many miles putting on several clincs over the years and never accepted money for doing what he loved to do. In 1975, he chaired a committee with Mickey Hamilton and developed a code of conduct for coaches and officials for the 4 leagues in the Flint area. Jim Massar is and always will be a man who tells it like it is! He was recognized for his contributions to officiating many years ago when the MHSAA presented him with their most prestigious award: The VERN NORRIS Award.

The Jim Massar Service Award is presented to an official who has not only demonstrated a strong dedication to their craft but having active participation to the association (training, recruiting. mentoring, and leadership). Congratulations to our past recepients.