Ed Rhoades dedicated more than three decades to officiating for the Washington Officials Association, serving in football, basketball, softball, and baseball for 31 years.

His illustrious career included some of the highest honors an official could achieve. He served as the State Baseball Tournament Umpire-in-Chief for 18 years and was involved at the district level for baseball for 26 years. Over the course of his career, he umpired the State Baseball and Softball Finals on three occasions. In 2001, he was recognized nationally when he was named the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Softball Official of the Year.

At the district level, Rhoades also played a pivotal role in football and basketball for 24 years. He officiated State Finals twice in each of those sports, along with multiple assignments at regional tournaments—three in softball, four in football, and five each in basketball and baseball.

Beyond officiating, he provided leadership and governance at both the state and local levels. He served on the WIAA District 6 Executive Board for 12 years and was a member of the WOA Executive Board for 20 years. He also took on the critical responsibility of Assigning Secretary, managing officials for football (12 years), basketball (16 years), and both baseball and softball (28 years each).

Rhoades’ résumé also included extensive service at the amateur and collegiate levels. He umpired Babe Ruth State Tournaments for 14 years, including eight Regionals, and Amateur Softball Association (ASA) State Tournaments for 15 years, including three Regionals. He spent eight years as ASA State Tournament Umpire-in-Chief and officiated in four ASA National Tournaments. In addition, he worked as an NCAA baseball umpire for 30 years and served as American Legion Baseball District Commissioner for 15 years. His work earned him membership in the prestigious ASA National Indicator Fraternity, and in 2000 he officiated at the 16-year-old Babe Ruth World Series.

Rhoades was deeply committed to mentoring young officials across Washington and the Pacific Northwest. Known for his professionalism and dedication, he developed strong working relationships with schools and associations alike, leaving a lasting impact on the officiating community.