Clark County and those associated with high school sports lost a great man with the passing of Harrison McMillian.

I first met Harrison back in 1983 when I first started to coach the Ridgefield JV basketball team. I was very much impressed with the way his communication skills made the game move smoothly. His wit and charm was used to keep everyone under control. As I moved on from Ridgefield to become the head coach at Stevenson High School in 1987 and later at Woodland High School in 2000, my players always enjoyed Harrison working their game.

Harrison had a true interest in athletes and coaches. Harrison would always greet my wife and two boys as they grew up around the gyms in Clark County. Both were able to experience him refereeing their games. My youngest was able to watch how effective Harrison was at handling the ire of coaches.

Harrison served as a model for not only other referees, but also, for high school sports. He had a tremendous amount of respect for the game and the people involved. He had an impact on hundreds of athletes and their families. He will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing “Mac.”