Listen to Tim Kroeker of the Canadian Football League discuss his football officiating career. Tim shares the similarities and differences between officiating football in Canada versus the United States. Hear first-hand accounts from this rising CFL star (my words, not Tim’s) who has already officiated the CFL’s Grey Cup, which is their version of the NFL’s Super Bowl. Tim contacted me some time ago when I used his photo in a blog post but had no idea who the official was. I’ve posted that photo on this post as well.

I had the first (of what hopefully will be many) interview with Ken Rivera, MWC’s Coordinator of Football Officials and owner of the Reno Football Officiating Camp, LLC. For those that don’t know, I’m conducting a series of interview with NFL and NCAA officials and NCAA Conference Coordinators on the subject of “Moving Up, Getting Hired and Improving your Football Officiating Craft.” Ken is the first interview in this series. Jim Jackson, Coordinator of Football Officials with the Ohio Valley Conference, is scheduled for tonight.

Here is a link to Ken’s bio on the MWC website: http://themwc.cstv.com/staff/staff-dir-bio-rivera.html

Here is a link to Ken’s Reno Football Officials Camp website: http://www.footballofficialscamp.com/index.html

Ken provided an insightful and informative session based on his 27 years of officiating experience. Not only did I gain specific knowledge on how to prepare for a NCAA Division 1 career, Ken provided valuable information on such topics as mentoring, balancing family and officiating, video breakdown, MWC’s application process, what he looks for in prospective football officials, and choosing the right camp/clinic. After discussing the Reno camp with Ken, I’m please to say I’ve registered for this event in early June and I’m looking forward to the experience.

Thanks for everything Ken!