Gary Kalinkewicz Honored for Dedication to Game of Basketball

Blue Streak Hall of Famer, Gary Kalinkewicz, has been honored by the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO) for his lifetime service to the game of basketball. 

The IAABO is a nonprofit organization founded in 1921 to promote and standardize officiating in the sport of basketball. The organization’s primary purpose is to educate, train, develop and provide continuous instruction for basketball officials. 

Kalinkewicz has been a member of the organization for 50 years.

Like all high school coaches and officials, his affinity for basketball began in his youth.

“I grew up competing with my brothers and sisters on a daily basis,” Kalinkewicz wrote. “My dad built us a basketball court behind our home early in our childhood,” 

His first experience of organized basketball was playing for the Galway team in 6th grade.

“I found out early that the highlight of my week was the basketball games,” said Kalinkewicz.

As is common for athletes at a small school, Kalinkewicz played sports year-round so his school could field a team. 

He ended up playing soccer at SUNY Cortland. 

After graduating from SUNY Cortland, Kalinkewicz began teaching physical education in the Saratoga Springs City School District. Soon into his career, he was approached to coach the 7th and 8th grade basketball program, an opportunity he embraced. 

“I enjoyed getting back into the game in a different capacity,” said Kalinkewicz. “Over the years I have lived vicariously through the careers of these players.” 

In the late 1980s Kalinkewicz transitioned to coach the golf team at Saratoga. During his tenure the team went 360-75 overall, which is seventh in NYS all-time. Although he doesn’t give himself much credit for this achievement, preferring to highlight the athletes.  

Despite no longer coaching the sport, Kalinkewicz never stepped away from basketball. He has officiated games throughout the Capital region and North Country for over 50 years.

“I started officiating at the modified and junior varsity level wherever and whenever I could. I was able to progress to the varsity level and later moved on briefly to the college level. I found myself developing a rapport with many of the coaches and fellow officials. Many of them have become lifelong friends. These connections are another reason for my love of the game. Without basketball, these friendships would not have been possible,” Kalinkewicz wrote.  

During his lifetime service to the IAABO award acceptance speech, Kalinkewicz closed his remarks by saying:

“This ceremony has made my day, and this award has made my career.”