The Northwest Conference puts high value on celebrating our students, programs and communities throughout the school year. From “Leaders in Sportsmanship,” to “Coaches vs. Cancer” and “Only 7 Seconds,” The Northwest Conference consistently goes above and beyond with outreach to every school and their corresponding communities.
Each school in the NWC will have the opportunity to highlight someone from their community as a “Person of Distinction.” This honor will celebrate someone associated with each athletic program and draw a spotlight on the amazing selfless people who help make this conference so special!
Blaine Athletics
Persons of Distinction –Rick Shockey
For more than two decades, Rick Shockey has been a steady and familiar presence in Blaine schools and throughout Borderite athletics. Whether he is in a classroom, on a golf course, behind the scorer’s table, or helping direct traffic on a Friday night, Rick has dedicated countless hours to supporting student-athletes and helping events run smoothly across our district.
Rick taught in the Blaine School District for more than 20 years and continues to serve students today as a substitute teacher. His commitment to Blaine has never been limited to the school day, however, as he has spent years giving his time and energy to athletics in nearly every way imaginable.
For 15 years, Rick coached boys golf at Blaine High School, mentoring student-athletes and helping grow the program through his leadership and care for kids.
Beyond coaching, Rick has become one of the most dependable and recognizable people at Borderite events. He works the football and basketball clocks, serves as a line judge during volleyball matches, and helps as a parking lot attendant during varsity football games and district events. No matter the role, Rick has a willingness to help wherever needed.
His impact extends well beyond the high school level. Rick is also integral to our middle school athletics programs, attending nearly every middle school contest in whatever capacity is needed to keep events organized and running smoothly.
When district baseball events need extra help, Rick is there for those as well. His willingness to serve in so many different ways speaks to the kind of person he is — dependable, humble, and deeply invested in the success of Blaine students and athletics.
“People like Rick Shockey are the backbone of school communities. His years of dedication, service, and care have made a lasting impact on countless athletes, coaches, and families throughout Blaine. On behalf of the entire Borderite community, thank you, Rick, for everything you continue to do for Blaine Athletics.”
Chas Kok, Blaine School District Athletic Director
“Rick Shockey is someone whose presence consistently elevates the experience of hosting events at Blaine. He brings a genuine servant’s heart to everything he does, showing up reliably and with a steady kindness that others quickly notice and appreciate. Rick has a natural way of connecting with athletes, treating them with respect and care in a way that makes them feel seen and valued. His love for youth sports and for people more broadly is evident in how he serves behind the scenes and in the moments that matter most on event days. He is a quiet but essential asset to every event he supports, and his impact is felt in both the smoothness of operations and the positive tone he helps set for everyone involved.”
Brady Bomber, Lynden Christian Athletic Director
“Rick Shockey is truly deserving of recognition as a Person of Distinction this year. Rick is one of those people who is always willing to step in and help wherever needed, whether it’s supporting events at Meridian or assisting with Northwest Conference tournaments. He is incredibly friendly, easy to work with, and someone people can always count on to get things done with a positive attitude.
Rick’s willingness to volunteer his time and energy has made a lasting impact on countless events and the overall experience for athletes, coaches, and spectators alike. His dedication, reliability, and supportive nature do not go unnoticed, and Meridian is fortunate to have someone so committed to helping others and serving the community.”
Bryant Michaelson
Meridian Athletic Director
