So What Was It?
Gerald Austin’s interview was very informative. Gerald is the consummate southern gentleman although he did describe himself as a boy from the mountains of Western North Carolina. Gerald is a former NFL referee and the current supervisor of football officiating for the Conference USA. Gerald’s officiating career began as a high school student where he worked his way from the high school ranks of football and basketball ultimately finding a spot in both sports in the ACC.
In 1982 Gerald got the call from the NFL and retired from the field in 2008. Gerald officiating in three Super Bowls – one as a side judge and two as the white hat. He has also won the Art McNalley award given to individuals who exhibit exemplary professionalism, leadership and commitment to sportsmanship on and off the field.
So back to the original thought…7 seconds and 175 times per game. Gerald said this was one of the most important responsibilities of a football official.
CONCENTRATE
Yep. Concentrate. We went on to discuss Gerald’s philosophy of officiating. He mentioned that it had changed some over the years based on his mentors and their influences. I think we can all agree that our mentors have largely shaped the way we approach the game.
On very interesting note I’d like to share: Gerald said he often encounters officials that live for the big game or for the big call. They wanted to be the person on the goal line watching to see if the catch was inbounds and would decide the game. I guess if we are honest about it, we’ve all had those same thoughts at some point in our career.
But Gerald said he only wanted to manage the game, not be a factor. “The game is for the players, coaches and fans,” said Mr. Austin, a retired educator and school superintendent. “If we let the game be about ourselves we are not aligned with the spirit of the game.” I thought long and hard about those words. About managing the game. About not affecting the outcome. The philosophy behind why we are out on the field to begin with.
I’ve always said I loved officiating football because you get one of the best views in the stadium and you don’t care who wins. But what Gerald brought to my attention is a larger responsibility than personal gratification. Sure we like the lights, the band, the screaming fans, hard hitting players and the athleticism of football. But what is missed on more than one occasion is the spirit of the game. The intent. The purpose of the game. Football isn’t about the guys in the stripes. Gerald said it best: Players, Coaches and Fans.
What do you think? Please shoot me an email at todd@profootballreferee.com and let me hear your thoughts.
Also be sure to reserve a copy of the upcoming book “Ready For Play” at www.profootballreferee.com/training
Until next time,
Be the Best on the Field
Todd Skaggs
PS: I’m working on a few posts about spring scrimmages for college teams. If you have any questions or ideas on that topic, send them my way at todd@profootballreferee.com
