HELENA, Ala. (WBRC) – Football season is right around the corner and there’s a need for more high school football officials before things kick off in August, which is why the Shelby Football Officials Association is asking people to consider joining their team.
You don’t need prior experience, you just have to be at least 18 years old to be a varsity ref. Officials said you also have to be willing to work in the summer heat.
Interested people were asked to show up to the Helena Community Center on Tuesday night, July 28 at 6 p.m. From there, the Shelby Football Officials have it covered.
Shelby Football Officials Association(WBRC)
Kholbe Abrams told WBRC he was glad he gave being an official a shot, saying, “I always tell people it’s a step closer to me being on the field. Especially as a retired football player, I always wanted to get that game day feeling back.”
While it’s not possible to go back in time, getting back that game day feeling and getting back out on the field in different ways is possible. David Johnson has been a football official for 30 years and said he doesn’t take any of it for granted.
“As a seasoned football official myself, I still get goosebumps and chills walking out on the field on Friday nights,” said Johnson. “The crowd, and the band, and the fans. It’s just a great feeling.”
Johnson and his team with Shelby Football Officials want others to experience that same thing. The workshop being held on Tuesday night will teach rules and mechanics to those who want to learn the craft.
“Everything new is challenging,” said Johnson. “The more you do it, the easier it becomes. My advice to them is to come out, learn and listen and ask questions. There’s no such thing as a dumb question.”
“If you’re on the fence, man, just do it,” said Abrams. “You’ll have a group of guys or women that will help you out to grow, and you could potentially go to the top with it.”
The Muscle Shoals Trojans defeated Mountain Brook 24-7 in the Class 6A Playoffs. The Trojan host Clay-Chalkville Friday November 28 in the 6A Semifinals.(WBRC)
Without officials, the game can’t be played. Which is why it’s so important to have people willing to step into the role.
“We’re out here for these student athletes and coaches,” said Johnson. “And, of course, the fans sitting up there in the stands. Without officials, they can’t play the game.”
The association also offers direct scholarships for district and state champs to help off set the cost for those just starting out. To learn more, you can click or tap here.
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