Officials Keep Body and Mind in Football Shape
By Michael Kuebler Tue, 04/20/2010 - 8:24am
The offseason provides an opportunity for some relaxation for youth players and coaches. At the same time, though, they cannot just kick back and relax.
The same holds true for football officials. Dirk Finley and Jerry Courtney, both USA Football officiating members, know a thing or two about offseasons with their combined 68 years of officiating experience.
Offseason Clinics Provide Chance to Improve
By Michael Kuebler Wed, 03/24/2010 - 11:21am
Just as youth football players and coaches use the offseason to stay in shape and hone their skills, football officials can use this time to take advantage of improving as well. One way to do this is by attending an officiating clinic.
These clinics can provide beginners with the knowledge and skills to master their officiating craft. USA Football Rules Editor and Officiating Consultant Bill LeMonnier believes offseason clinics guide the newer officials with the following benefits:
Meet an Officiating Member: Steve Epstein
By Michael Kuebler Mon, 03/22/2010 - 10:03am
Name: Steve Epstein
Resides: Boca Raton, Fla.
USA Football Membership: Officiating
Position: Line Judge
Official Since: 1978
Level: Broward (Ft. Lauderdale) Football Officials Association (High School); Southern Independent Collegiate Officials Association (College, NAIA)
Officiating youth and high school football may be a part-time hobby, but officials need to treat it seriously and put in the effort of a full-time job in order to be successful. USA Football Officiating Member Steve Epstein has been doing exactly that for more than 30 years.
