Page 15 - 2025 Impact Awards

James Robinson Pathway to James Robinson Pathway to

Officiating Scholarship Officiating Scholarship

The life of James Robinson was dedicated Braxton Pieper of Central Noble High School is a three-sport
to sports on multiple levels and avenues. student athlete, participating in Baseball, Football, and
As a youth coach in his community, he Wrestling for the Cougars. In addition to his efforts on the
was beloved by his players and parents. field and on the mat, Braxton has worked in multiple roles for
As an eight-time IHSAA State Finals Central Noble’s athletic department. From taking tickets to
official, across three sports, James was
respected and a mentor to many. As a working concessions to compiling stats, he acknowledges the
member of the first all-African American many people in various roles it takes to put on a successful
crew to officiate a Power 5 football game, and efficient athletic event.
James was a
trailblazer. Pieper took a year of officiating courses while in high school,
receiving education on the rules and procedures of
James was a pillar in his community and Basketball, Baseball, Volleyball, and Wrestling. While he may
the sports world, receiving national James Robinson not participate at the next level, Braxton views officiating as
recognition when he was featured on the a grand opportunity to remain close to the community and to
cover of REFEREE Magazine in 2012. As stay involved with the sports he is most passionate about. He
a member of multiple national and inter-state officiating
associations, including the Big Ten Conference, NCAA, and NFL, takes pride in ensuring fair play and upholding the
James was admired as a fair and precise official dedicated to integrity of the game, while also connecting with the youth.
leading as an example to get involved and create opportunities for He is intrigued by the challenge of making quick informed
others. decisions under pressure and managing his emotions to make
the correct calls. Braxton has
His national recognition did not diminish his communal and begun officiating youth baseball
developmental ideals, as he served as a leader in multiple local and helping run and administer
roles. James was known as a coach and fair baseball official for the Central Noble’s youth baseball
youth in this hometown. Within Indiana, he mentored numerous leagues. Braxton’s experience
young officials and was a constant advocate for positive change. He as a student-athlete has set him
served on rules committees to enhance the quality and experience
for student-athletes, coaches, fans, and other officials. up for success, no matter what
he pursues next.
Started in 2024 by the friends, family, and colleagues, the James
Robinson Pathway to Officiating Post-Secondary Scholarship
was founded to support a graduating senior who displays a holistic
view and passion for athletics.

Braxton Pieper
Central Noble

14 IHSAA Foundation Impact Awards IHSAA Foundation Impact Awards 15