Ken Conselyea Award, 2011

Alfred O'Campo - 1954-2009

Al O'Campo was a well-respected and accomplished soccer official at all levels of the game, who never failed to brighten the lives of those he met. He had been associated with the game of soccer as a player, referee, assessor, mentor, administrator and parent for over 25 years. Al was a registered USSF State Referee, State Assessor and Assignor in Ohio South, as well as a certified Ohio High School and NISOA collegiate soccer official. He was often assigned to work the more difficult high-level matches at all levels due both to his match personality and his ability to adjust to conditions and level of match play.

At the same time Al also served his Cincinnati soccer family at many different levels, including as Referee Assignor for the Cincinnati Adult Amateur League and Blue Chip Showcase Classic for the past several years. Previously, he had spent a few years as an officer and subsequently as President of the SouthWest Ohio Soccer Officials Association (SWOSOA).

As an official, assessor or mentor, he taught by example without being demeaning and without the burden of an inflated ego. Al was just as comfortable (and just as eager) refereeing a high level adult match as with running a line on a 10-year old youth match. His enthusiasm was contagious and genuine. He thoroughly enjoyed his involvement in each game, no matter his role, and was a true ambassador for all those involved be they players, coaches, officials, administrators or spectators.

As paraphrased in a recent e-mail ... Al's own sense of humor continued to the end when he stated "God needed a good referee"!!! He was truly a "player/coach's referee", as he got along well with everyone he met. He was fair, honest and always gave his best. When he made a mistake, he admitted so and moved on. Al will be sorely missed by all those who knew him, but his fun-loving presence, engaging personality and steadfast inner resolve will remain with us forever. May he rest in peace!!