For more than four decades, Steve Colby was a respected official in Washington high school basketball. A member of the Washington Officials Association (WOA) for 41 years, he officiated at the league, district, and state levels, including 19 years at girls’ district tournaments and 15 years at boys’ district tournaments. His assignments included seven girls’ state tournaments, six boys’ state tournaments, five state championship games, and two semifinal contests. In addition, Colby officiated women’s college basketball from 1996 to 2002.

Beyond the court, Colby played an instrumental role in advancing officiating in Washington. As WOA president, he was a key figure in transitioning high school basketball to the three-person crew system, later serving as co-director of the WIAA/WOA camp designed to prepare officials for that change. He also helped establish the WOA Summer Golf Tournament in 2007, a tradition that continued as part of the organization’s annual conference.

His leadership within the WOA was extensive. Elected to the Executive Board in 1999, he represented Region 1 for many years, serving as Vice President from 2000–03 and President from 2003–07. He also created the WOA scholarship program in 2011, providing opportunities for student-athletes across the state. A longtime member of the WOA Fee Review Committee, Colby continued to contribute as an observer for the Northwest Board and as Officials Coordinator at the Tacoma Dome, overseeing officiating crews at the 2A, 3A, and 4A state tournaments.

His career was recognized with numerous honors, including WOA Girls Basketball Official of the Year in 2001, the WOA Meritorious Service Award, and induction into the WOA Hall of Fame in 2012.

Widely respected by peers, administrators, and student-athletes alike, Steve Colby’s service to Washington officiating was unmatched. Through his leadership, mentorship, and steady presence on the court, he left an enduring legacy on high school athletics in the state.