Your First Downs - Introduction to officiating high school football

In this episode of Your First Downs, hosts Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell are joined by Nick Brigati, a D1 Line Judge from Ohio. They delve into the key differences between the wing position at the high school and college level, focusing on communication, confidence, and observational skills. Nick shares tips on effectively managing coach interactions, diffusing situations, and mastering the respo...

In this episode of Your First Downs, hosts Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell sit down with Chuck Hickey, a seasoned back judge and three-time state championship official from Colorado. They discuss the importance of the back judge position and how to excel in it. Chuck shares his journey to becoming a back judge and the challenges and responsibilities that come with the role. They also address listener questions and provide insights into...

Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell interview Dan Gilman, a 40-year officiating veteran and current referee and crew chief. Dan shares his insights and experiences on becoming a referee, offering valuable advice for newer officials that aspire to the role. The conversation covers from the fun and challenging aspects of being a referee, the importance of confidence and body language, handling mistakes a...

In this episode, Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell are joined by Ryan Rourke, a multi-championship linesman from Northern Colorado. Together, they discuss how to become a championship-level wing official in high school football. They cover topics such as the importance of rule knowledge, communication with coaches and chain crew, spotting the ball, and managing sideline situations. Ryan also emphasizes the need to maintain composure and ...

Our lost episode! Due to a technical glitch, this episode did not publish as scheduled in 2023. Like a fine wine, it's even better a year later! Tune in as Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell are joined by experienced officials John Armstrong and Megan Griesser to discuss how they overcame the nervousness and challenges of their first games as football officials. They share their personal experiences and offer new officials valuable advice...

Join the conversation as we navigate the best practices of football officiating with veteran referee Randy Campbell. With an illustrious career including 20 postseason appearances, 18 FBS bowl assignments, and the 2013 BCS national championship, Randy is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical insights. He takes us through the maze of transitioning from high school to college officiating, underlining the importance of mentorship, ...

In this episode, podcast hosts Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell interview Coach John Shipley from Conifer High School in Colorado. Coach Shipley shares his thoughts on the role of officials in the game of football and the importance of their presence on the field. They discuss various topics, including the pregame interaction between coaches and officials, communication on the sidelines, dealing with fouls and penalties, and the role of...

In this episode of Your First Downs, hosts Joel Poger and Kirk Russell from the Colorado Football Officials Association are joined by special guest Claire Gaussman, a former high school official who has worked in various prestigious football officiating roles, including college football, college bowl games, and the NFL.

Claire shares his wealth of knowledge and experience with new high school football officials, discussing how o...

In this week's episode of Your First Downs, hosts Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell sit down with Kaylinda Benell, one of the most successful female officials in the Colorado Springs area. They discuss the challenges and opportunities for women in the male-dominated sport of football officiating. Kaylinda shares her experiences and offers advice for new officials, emphasizing the importance of being open to learning and studying the rule...

In this episode of Your First Downs, hosts Joel Poger and Kirk Russell discuss the lessons they learned from the 2023 Colorado Football Officials association camp. They cover topics such as movement on the field, proper mechanics for wings and goal line officials, reading the play as an official, and the importance of rotating with the players. They also delve into the concept of money lines in football, which are crucial points on...

In this episode of Your First Downs, hosts Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell are joined by special guest Scott Lewis, a referee and crew chief from the Denver Football Officials Association. The focus of this episode is on understanding and applying football rules, especially for new high school football officials. Scott shares his insights and experiences in dealing with rules, mechanics, and philosophy on the field. He emphasizes the i...

Ready to elevate your game as a new football official? We've got a treat for you.  Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell sit down with Jerry Letofsky, a seasoned Colorado assigner, who offers his guidance and insights into embarking on an officiating journey. Jerry sheds light on the exciting world of assigning, reveals how to land your first games, and shares tips on leveraging technology to your advantage. As we navigate the process, ...

Ever dreamt about stepping onto the football field, not as a player, but an official? Join us on an exhilarating journey into the world of high school football officiating with our hosts Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell of the Colorado Football Officials Association. We'll share the nuts and bolts of becoming an official; from selecting the right association and undergoing the right training to managing expectations as you move up ...