Ask any veteran official, assignor, or conference supervisor about the number one question they get asked and it typically revolves around career advancement. Whether that be moving from junior varsity to varsity football or breaking into the college scene; aspiring football officials set their sights on making at the highest levels.

Dick Honig, veteran Big-10 referee and current ACC observer, shares his views when asked that common question…”What does it take to get to the Division One level?”

Click the link here to listen to Dick speak: Dick Honig

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On Monday I had the pleasure to interview Jim Jackson with the Ohio Valley Conference for my project. Jim’s been at the helm of OVC Football Officiating since 2007 after spending six years in the Sun Belt conference as referee. You can read more on Jim at http://www.ovcsports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=31152&SPID=2453&DB_OEM_ID=6200&ATCLID=728569

You can check out the OVC website here http://www.ovcsports.com/

I gained valuable insight from Jim regarding the importance of video review in both the preparation of Division I crews as well as using this media to improve individual official performance and ability. I never realized the amount of preparation that a Division I white hat assumes in getting his crew ready for the week’s game.

Another terrific insight from Jim: Call it a fraternity, fellowship, comraderie – regardless, that intangible of a community with a common passion. Its largely why we do what we do. Jim said most people could count 5 or 10 true friends in their circle, but through officiating he was able to count around 200 people as close friends. If you happen to know Jim and are in that circle, know Jim Jackson is grateful for each and every one of you.

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