 This week we're featuring Phil, whose officiating journey started back in the late '80s thanks to a simple notice in a base newspaper. Decades later, he's still at it — and still loving every minute. Here’s Phil’s story: What made you decide to become a football official? While serving in the U.S. Navy in the late '80s, I was assigned to shore duty and came across a notice in the local base newspaper, The Sounding. It mentioned that the local officiating association was looking for new officials for high school football. I remember thinking, “That sounds like an incredible opportunity — how cool would that be?” I decided to give it a shot, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. At the last training session, the trainer told us what we would be paid for each game. I thought, “I get to do this and get paid too?!” For me, that sentiment remains true today. Do you officiate any other sports? Yes. In addition to high school football, I spent 11 years officiating college football and 8 years officiating high school lacrosse — which, in my opinion, is the fastest sport on two feet. What do you enjoy most about officiating? The camaraderie, without a doubt. There’s something special about sharing a passion with like-minded individuals — people who are all committed to improving, striving for excellence every time we take the field. The pursuit of that elusive "perfect game" keeps us sharp and motivated, and the friendships built along the way are truly lasting. What would you tell someone who's thinking about joining? Officiating is an experience you’ll carry with you for life. It builds strong bonds — with your crew, your association, and even officials from other regions. It’s also a great conversation starter. When people find out you officiate, they’re often curious and want to hear more. It opens the door to some great interactions. How many years have you been officiating high school football? This upcoming season will mark my 38th year on the field. Interested in officiating high school football?
We’re currently recruiting for the upcoming season, and no experience is necessary — we provide all the training at no cost. You’ll get to stay connected to the game, support student-athletes, and join a strong community of officials who have your back. 🦓 Fill out our interest form here.
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 Brittany’s journey into officiating began with a nudge from a coworker and a powerful connection to her grandfather, the late Rudolph Freeman — a respected referee whose retired jersey she now proudly wears on the field. For her, it’s about legacy, love of the game, and the camaraderie that comes with being part of SEFOA. Read her full story below What made you decide to become a football official? I decided to become a football official through the encouragement of a co-worker, Lydell Finley, who was a member of SEFOA. He believed my love for football and knowledge of the game would translate well to officiating. Also, I admired my grandfather, Rudolph Freeman, who was a well-known referee in the area. I always aspired to be a referee like him, but didn't know how or where to get started. When I finally thought about pursuing officiating, my grandfather had become sick and was not able to help me with it. However, when I became a member of SEFOA, his retired jersey was unretired so that I was able to wear it. Being able to wear his jersey has been an honor, and I hope I am making him proud. Do you officiate any other sports? I do not officiate any other sports. I did officiate softball for one season as I played softball growing up. However, playing softball and officiating softball are completely different. The experience was not what I expected, so I decided not to continue with it. What do you enjoy most about officiating? I enjoy the camaraderie the most. I enjoy the pre-game preparation and discussions, the in-game situations that evolve where we work together to solve and resolve situations, and the post-game gatherings and recovery. Even in the off-season, the camaraderie continues with continuous communication and get-togethers to further develop relationships outside of football. What would you tell someone who's thinking about joining? Just do it. Don't wait for the perfect opportunity or until you feel “ready” to pursue it. If it's something you're interested in, give it a try. Go to the training sessions. Ask questions. Learn more about the avocation. How many years have you been officiating high school football? I began officiating high school football in 2015. However, there were a few years where I was unable to officiate due to injury and the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, I have been on the field officiating for seven years. Interested in officiating high school football?
We’re currently recruiting for the upcoming season, and no experience is necessary — we provide all the training at no cost. You’ll get to stay connected to the game, support student-athletes, and join a strong community of officials who have your back. 🦓 Fill out our interest form here.  What started as a doctor’s recommendation to get more active after retiring from the Navy has turned into nearly a decade on the field as a high school football official. For Booker, officiating isn’t just about the game — it’s about health, mentorship, and the relationships he’s built along the way. Read on to hear how one conversation at church sparked a new purpose — and helped change his life in more ways than one. What made you decide to become a football official? Health and wellness. Upon retiring from the Navy, I immediately gained about 50 pounds and became diabetic with high blood pressure. Doctor recommended I start exercising more and become more active. Upon discussing this with a person from my church, he recommended I become a baseball official. In my first game, I met Gomez, who stated he was the trainer for football and gave me the information to come out that May. Between the two sports, I have been able to lose weight and have healthy numbers. Do you officiate any other sports? Baseball What do you enjoy most about officiating? The interaction with the students, hoping to be a positive factor for them. My wife is a high school teacher and is constantly discussing the lack of role models for students. During the time on the field, my goal is to provide a positive experience for the student. Another important factor is the relationships established with the other officials. What would you tell someone who's thinking about joining? The organization is great and will take care of you. Training is provided to help you become a better official by people who take the time to watch film to assess your mechanics and rule knowledge. The commissioner is fair and treats every person as an equal individual when it comes to game assignments. Within the association, you will meet individuals that can help you achieve higher levels of officiating if that is your personal goal. How many years have you been officiating high school football? I think nine years, maybe 10. (Hard to keep track when you love what you do!) Interested in officiating high school football?
We’re currently recruiting for the upcoming season, and no experience is necessary — we provide all the training at no cost. You’ll get to stay connected to the game, support student-athletes, and join a strong community of officials who have your back. 🦓 Fill out our interest form here. |
Blog AuthorLance Ulrich has been a football official since 2002, and a member of SEFOA since 2009. Archives
May 2025
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