Sports are back. Officials aren't. And while the shortage of referees, judges and officiants isn't exactly new, it has reached crisis proportions since 2020. Older officials are retiring and new ones can't be found - usually because of the abuse they face from those who differ with their judgments. It's so bad that events are being cancelled and moved.

When threats to boycott the Winter Olympics in Beijing were first tossed around, athletes cringed. It might have four decades since the U.S. opted out of the 1980 Games (an unpopular decision that former President Jimmy Carter still won't discuss) but the chagrin was alive and well. Now, there's a movement afoot for a "diplomatic boycott." Say what?

Modern pentathlon is becoming more, well, modern. The sport is dropping its equestrian component, reportedly in favor of cycling. It is not yet known whether this will make the sport more accessible to amateurs - who still need to master fencing, cross-country running, shooting and swimming. The change stems from an incident at the Tokyo Games.

Life imitating art? The Fast & Furious 9, released early last summer and the first Hollywood movie to gross more than $700 million since March of 2020, appears to be fueling a disturbing trend that picked up speed in 2021: illegal street racing. The activity often can turn fatal not only for motorists but also for pedestrians, runners and cyclists.

The beach is calling. Are you ready to answer? The FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships (2023, 2025, 2027) are up for bid and those interested have until November 30 to make their interest known. The last edition achieved a cumulative audience of 158 million viewers worldwide, across 77 broadcasters and 112 countries. Get in on the action here.

One aspect of being back, and one that few venue operators have been prepared for, is a new normal when it comes to parking. From disinfection protocols, ridesharing and online reservations and payments, the parking process offers an opportunity to improve the customer experience and streamline operations. Here are six ways to work smarter.