In 1977, Don Pfeifer was celebrated for his volunteerism in volleyball, and in the nearly five decades since he has continued to selflessly dedicate his time to the betterment of sport.
Seeing a necessity for volunteers in sport and wanting to contribute, Pfeifer began his journey in 1967 and was recognized for his efforts as an official only ten years later at a time that would end up being relatively early in his sport career.
“After 1977, I continued to be extensively involved with volleyball. Some time was spent with coaching but more time with actual referring and all aspects of administration related to officiating,” shared Pfeifer. “I felt good about responding to the request of others who thought I had the talent or ability or personality to take on the task or move to the next level of involvement with a particular sport.”
That characteristic acted as the driving force of his success.
For 31 years, Pfiefer was the only Saskatchewan-based international volleyball referee, which meant he got to take advantage of all the travel opportunities that came his way. He refereed in eight different countries and officiated at every level of volleyball available.
In that time, Pfiefer attended the 1983 Pan American Games in Caracas, Venezuela.
“I officiated as first referee in the men’s semifinal and then the women’s gold [medal game]. It was the first time a Canadian was assigned to a gold-medal match as first referee. The match went three hours and five minutes, Cuba over the US,” recalls Pfiefer.
Over the years, Pfeifer grew as an individual and as a volunteer. With that development came philosophies that helped guide Pfeifer through his time in sport: put away your ego and serve the sport, as well as pursue your passion to become your best.
“Be a good listener and learn from the best, be approachable, be fair yet firm when necessary. Be human!”
Pfiefer’s ideologies led him beyond success as a volleyball official and allowed him to wear many hats throughout his career in sport.
From taking to the helm of badminton and basketball teams, to overseeing curling matches as an official, Pfiefer was there to support. Often a rarity for volunteers to have such pliancy meant that Pfeifer was recognized on more than one occasion.
Shortly following his volunteer award in 1977, he received the Service Award from the Saskatchewan High School Athletic Association, which was followed by many others, including an induction into the Volleyball Canada Sports Hall of Fame in the referee category.
Even as recently as 2023, Pfiefer has sat on boards and received awards proving the longevity of volunteerism and the impact it can make.
Nominations for the 41st Annual Saskatchewan Sport Awards in the Recognition Category, including Volunteer Dedication are open now until November 1 at 11:59 p.m. If you have someone you’d like to nominate, please review the criteria and send in your submission