In-depth: Football Association president on the need for sports officials

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – This week, the Mahoning Valley Football Association President went in-depth about sports officiating.

David Hight is the first African-American president of the association. He spoke about what the qualifications are to become a football official.

“Well, the age was lowered a few years ago to 14 so you can start out with 14, can have a criminal record and you can become an Ohio official in eight different sports,” Hight said.

To apply, Hight says that everything is done online since COVID.

“When I started 29 years ago, I had to go to class for two nights a week for like two months and then take a test. When everything’s online, you can finish in a week or two now,” he said.

After passing the test, they pay $60 in dues and try to get hired for their first games. However, high school games are off limits for those just starting out.

“You got to have some experience before you can do high school, can do junior varsity seventh and eighth grade or little league” Hight said.

Hight says he started getting into officiating when he was 28.

“‘You’re getting too old to play. Why not come referee and make some money?’ So that’s what I decided to do.”

He says the job is important.

“Know there’s hundreds of rules — one call could make the difference in the game. So all you do is try to do your best.”

The conversation with Hight about officiating and the need for it will continue Wednesday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.