Fellow San Diego County Football Officials.
Welcome to the 2017 Season!
It is with great pride and honor that I have been elected President of the San Diego County Football Officials Association for 2017. In the 20 years I’ve been in this association, there have been many outstanding members who have dedicated themselves to the overall improvement of SDCFOA by demonstrating their leadership, contributing to essential committees and passing along their vast knowledge and experiences to help make us all better officials and members. And while being the President might seem a bit overwhelming, I’m comforted to know that the real work that keeps this association running smoothly is done by the Board of Directors, the various committees, the fantastic Instructional Program and the many behind-the-scenes volunteers who spend their time helping to ensure we all have a positive and rewarding officiating experience. My profound thanks go to all of you currently serving on committees, as instructors, as Board members, as volunteers and as officials for the 2017 season.
Whether you’re new to our association or returning for another season, I welcome you to seek out as much information you can from the classroom instructors. Our instructional program is far and away the finest in the state of California, if not the country. Our association is well represented throughout all levels of football officiating up to and including NCAA Division I and the NFL. What we have in common with them as a High School association is that they received the same instruction on rules, mechanics and officiating philosophy that is currently provided to all of you.
A sure sign of a strong organization is the recognition that to be a better official there must be a willingness to challenge yourself, to learn new ways, to adapt to a changing environment of technology and a level of physical fitness that might not already be part of your normal routine. Our association is at the leading edge of these challenges. My challenge to you is to embrace the coming changes. Be ready to take the next step in this evolving avocation we share by getting into the rule books, join a study group, learn to navigate and share Hudl videos and develop a total fitness program that involves a strong nutrition plan as well as a robust strength and conditioning routine.
Finally, step up and be a leader in the direction of your association. Get involved in every level of decision-making that you can. I’ve heard your voices that changes are needed in how and where our leaders are leading us. The best way that you can affect change is not to just point to a problem but to be part of the solution. Be a mentor to a newer official, volunteer to serve on a committee, pursue a seat on the Board of Directors. Your involvement in your association is necessary to continue the improvements we are making. We need your help, all of you, to keep our association the special group of high quality officials and people that we’re accustomed to well into the foreseeable future. With all of us working together, we can continue the proud tradition of being the very best football officiating association in the country.
I have always been and will continue to be available for any open discussion you might want to have. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments or concerns. You can also contact any Board member, Committee member, Classroom Instructor, Crew Chief or Officer.
I’m looking forward to a great 2017 season. Thanks again for allowing me this incredible opportunity and privilege.
Rick Christensen
SDCFOA President – 2017