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Become an official
Interested in becoming a football official? This page provides some basic information as well as a form to provide us your contact information. Complete this form and we will be in touch soon.
Earn Extra $$
Game Fees
Earn anywhere from $40 for working the chains at SUNY-Albany to over $100 for working a varsity game. On average, a new official will earn between $1000 - $3000 their first year depending on how many games they work.
Expenses
There are expenses to get started including registration fees, uniform, shoes, other gear and dues. We try to minimize expenses for new officials. If you are a US Veteran, Battlefield2Ballfields will help cover these startup expenses.
Requirements and FAQs
Experience?
No Experience is necessary. We provide a comprehensive training program that gets you on the field your first year! Our association has produced officials who have gone on to the ACC, American, Colonial, Ivy and Patriots Leagues, as well as NCAA Division II, and III.
Training Classes
Classes begin in mid-July and include a mix of classroom and field exercises. Classes are on Tuesday with a few Saturday clinics. This is to get you prepared to be on the field by September.
Working Games
You will be assigned Pop Warner and Capital District Youth Leagues games to start, as well work the clock for varsity games. As the season progresses, you will work high school modified and then JV games. By your third year, you should begin to get varsity assignments.
Observe and Learn
You will be given opportunities to work the chains at SUNY-Albany and watch college officials mechanics. You are invited to shadow current high school officials and ask questions. You are also given access to game video that includes comments on what we want our officials to do during certain plays.
Hanging Out
After Friday night games, head out to a local restaurant for refreshments, food and camaraderie as officials share stories from that night's game as well as war stories from past games. You will make many great friends through this endeavor.
Having Fun
Life is too short to not have some fun. We do this because we love the game and enjoy working with our fellow officials.
Testimonials
What officials have to say about why they officiate.
Ted Minissale
Head Linesman, Empire/Liberty League
To officiate the game of football is wonderful privilege. I chose to officiate the game to still be part of a game I love.
Kevin Labas
First year official, 2019
I never thought I'd enjoy officiating as much as I did. You get to be a part of great football games, meet interesting people, continuously challenge yourself and make money while you're doing it.
Let us know who you are
Send us your contact information and we will follow-up shortly.
Based on your home and work location, we will determine if you are best served by the Adirondack Chapter or Capital District Chapter.