Summary:

In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta engage with Major League Baseball umpires Doug Eddings and Mike Everitt to discuss the vital role of mentorship in officiating. The conversation covers their personal journeys into umpiring, experiences in high-pressure situations like the World Series, and the importance of having mentors throughout their careers. They share valuable advice for aspiring officials, emphasizing the need for passion, humility, and the ability to adapt. The episode concludes with reflections on the joy of umpiring and the significance of building supportive relationships within the officiating community.

[email protected]

Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:14 Mike Everitt - Be Humble

01:28 Doug Eddings - Joy in the Game and Kids

02:52 Mike Everitt - Go To Camp

04:04 Ed Letter and Episode Intro

04:20 Welcome Back to Letter M - Mentorship

04:45 Officiating Journeys: Beginnings and Importance of Mentorship

12:14 World Series Experiences: The Pinnacle of Umpiring

19:04 Overcoming Geographic Challenges in Officiating

21:24 The Role of Mentorship in Officiating

31:30 Advice from Mentors: Wisdom in Umpiring

34:24 Building Effective Mentor-Mentee Relationships

39:50 The Importance of Mentorship in Officiating

49:01 Navigating the Role of a Mentor

55:24 Most Important Advice

59:05 Excite Officials

01:00:44 Educate Officials

01:04:21 Thank you and Goodbye

01:04:48 Outro - Call to Action

Summary:

In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta engage with Division I basketball referees Bob Schofield and Tyler Trimble. They discuss their officiating journeys, the importance of community and camps, and how humor and levity play crucial roles in officiating. The conversation emphasizes the significance of building relationships with coaches, players, and table staff, and how effective communication can enhance the officiating experience. In this engaging conversation, the panel of experienced officials reflects on their journeys in officiating, sharing humorous anecdotes, the challenges of maintaining a positive atmosphere during games, and the importance of mentorship in the officiating community. They discuss the competitive nature of the profession, the need for patience among new officials, and the bonds formed within the officiating family. The conversation emphasizes the significance of giving back to the sport and recognizing the contributions of those who paved the way for current officials.

Sound Bites

"Don't ever leave the ball on the floor."

"It's a big small world in officiating."

"We hope you referee all our road games."

"It doesn't have to be stressful."

"You have to find that fine line."

"We're all trying to climb the ladder."

"You didn't get there on your own."

"You can call somebody at any given time."

"You never know when this thing's over."

"It takes a village, but it really does."

Chapters

00:00 Intro Music

00:21 TT How to be Patient

01:09 BS Stay in Touch

01:50 TT Humor Gone Wrong

03:10 Introduction to Letter L - Levity

06:14 The Importance of Camps and Community

09:21 The Role of Humor in Officiating

11:51 Building Relationships and Humanizing Officials

14:48 Navigating Communication with Coaches and Players

31:03 Reflections on Officiating Experiences

32:39 Humor in Officiating: When It Backfires

36:35 Inspiring the Next Generation of Officials

41:40 The Importance of Mentorship in Officiating

47:50 Lessons Learned: The Competitive Nature of Officiating

50:35 The Officiating Family: Bonds Beyond the Game

55:18 Outro - Call to Action

Summary:

In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, Dana Pappas interviews Kyle Armstrong, CEO and founder of RefReps, an innovative online sports officiating curriculum. They discuss the importance of knowledge in officiating, how RefReps is changing the landscape of officiating education, and the growth of the program across the United States. The conversation highlights the unique teaching methods employed by RefReps, the life skills learned through officiating, and the challenges faced by new officials. They also explore future enhancements for the curriculum and the impressive data reflecting the program's success. In this conversation, Kyle Armstrong and Dana Pappas discuss the transformative impact of referee training programs on the officiating landscape. They explore the significant increase in youth engagement in officiating, innovative support initiatives for game day operations, and the importance of experiential learning in understanding the role of officials. The discussion highlights the need for sustainability in officiating and the positive changes being made to foster a supportive community for referees.

RefReps

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to RefReps and Knowledge

08:39 Growth and Collaboration in Officiating Education

15:33 Life Skills Through Officiating

24:57 Future Enhancements for RefReps

30:43 The Impact of Referee Training Programs

40:54 Youth Engagement and the Future of Officiating

46:58 Experiential Learning: Seeing the Game Through Officials' Eyes

52:02 Building a Sustainable Consistency for Officiating

Summary:

In this engaging conversation, Kyle Bacon shares his extensive journey in officiating, discussing the various phases of his career, the challenges he faced, and the lessons learned along the way. From his early days as a college freshman to becoming a Final Four official, Kyle emphasizes the importance of patience, preparation, and the ability to adapt to setbacks, including the impact of COVID-19 on his career. The discussion highlights the significance of enjoying the journey and the gradual progression in the officiating world. In this conversation, Kyle Bacon shares his journey as a basketball referee, discussing the challenges of injuries and the impact of COVID-19 on officiating. He emphasizes the importance of relationships within the officiating community, recounts his experiences at the NCAA tournament, and offers valuable advice for new officials. The discussion highlights the significance of mentorship, the joy of shared experiences, and the need to cherish every moment in the officiating career.

Chapters

00:00 Intro Music

00:14 Bucket List

00:38 Luck, Opportunity, and Preparation

01:16 Tournament Memories

02:11 Ed - Intro

02:25 Welcome Back and Introduction to J - Journey

05:48 The Officiating Journey Begins

10:33 Overcoming Challenges and Setbacks

16:44 Reflections on Growth and Success

24:44 The Journey to the NCAA Tournament: First Experiences

30:04 The Importance of Relationships in Officiating

36:27 Achieving the Final Four: A Personal Journey

46:31 Advice for New Officials: Embracing the Journey

56:13 Outro - Call to Action

Summary:

In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta engage with NCAA officials Penny Davis and Chris Rastatter. They discuss their journeys into officiating, the challenges of transitioning from on-court roles to leadership positions, and the importance of intention in officiating. The conversation highlights personal growth, the impact of Intention on officiating culture, and the significance of creating a positive environment for officials. Both guests share insights on teaching, development, and the responsibilities that come with their roles as coordinators. In this conversation, officiating experts Chris Rastatter and Penny Davis discuss the significance of intentionality in officiating, the importance of setting goals, and the need for teamwork and trust among officials. They share personal experiences and insights on how to inspire and mentor aspiring referees, emphasizing the value of giving back to the officiating community and the importance of self-awareness and humility in the profession.

NCAA Women's College Basketball

NCAA Men's College Basketball

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Officiating and the Guests

02:48 Penny Davis: Journey to Officiating Leadership

05:56 Chris Rastatter: From Player to Official

08:48 Transitioning from Officiating to Coordination

12:01 The Importance of Teaching and Development

15:09 The Role of Intention in Officiating

18:13 Personal Growth and Learning in Leadership

20:53 The Impact of Intention on Officiating Culture

23:56 Creating a Positive Officiating Environment

26:59 Final Thoughts on Officiating and Leadership

35:21 The Importance of Intentionality in Officiating

41:27 Setting Goals and Achieving Consistency

45:46 Building Teamwork and Trust Among Officials

52:31 Advice for Aspiring Officials

01:01:14 The Role of Giving Back in Officiating

Summary:

In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta engage with Dr. Karissa Niehoff, CEO of the NFHS, to discuss the vital role of officials in interscholastic sports. They explore the structure and purpose of the NFHS, the challenges faced by officials, and the importance of recognition and appreciation for their work. The conversation also highlights various campaigns aimed at promoting officiating and addressing negative perceptions, emphasizing the need to celebrate the positive contributions of officials in the community. In this conversation, Karissa Niehoff, CEO of NFHS, discusses the importance of collaboration among officiating bodies, the challenges faced by interscholastic officials, and the need for mentorship and support in the profession. The dialogue also highlights the significance of empowering women in sports leadership and the collective responsibility to elevate the officiating profession through storytelling and recognition.

NFHS

#BecomeAnOfficial

#BenchBadBehavior

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the NFHS and Its Role

02:55 Understanding the NFHS Structure and Purpose

05:58 The Importance of Officials in Interscholastic Sports

09:11 Challenges Faced by Officials and the Need for Support

11:58 Recognition and Appreciation of Officials

15:07 Campaigns to Support and Promote Officiating

17:53 Highlighting the Positive Aspects of Officiating

32:53 The Importance of Collaboration in Officiating

39:05 Challenges Facing Interscholastic Officials

47:29 Empowering Women in Sports Leadership

56:10 Elevating the Officiating Profession

01:02:48 A Message of Support for Officials

Summary:

In this conversation, Brenda Hilton, CEO and Founder of Officially Human, discusses the recent developments in the sports officiating landscape and the growth of her organization, Officially Human. She emphasizes the importance of humanizing officials and restoring respect for them in the sports community. The discussion also covers the Elevate Respect program aimed at educating fans and coaches about the challenges officials face, and the success markers for the humanization of officials. Brenda shares insights on youth engagement and the future plans for her organization.

We discuss the importance of humanizing sports officials and the cultural shift needed to improve the treatment of officials in sports. The dialogue covers various aspects, including engaging youth, addressing negative behaviors, the significance of mentorship, and the need for a supportive environment for officials. The speakers emphasize the importance of appreciation and respect for officials, the challenges they face, and the exciting initiatives being undertaken to promote a positive narrative around officiating.

Officially Human

Elevate Respect

Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back and Introductions

02:56 The Birth of Officially Human

04:48 The Mission of Officially Human

08:55 Humanizing Officials in Sports

10:10 Elevate Respect Program

13:36 Success Markers for Humanization

14:39 Youth Engagement and Future Plans

17:34 Humanizing Sports Officials: A Cultural Shift

02:57 Engaging Youth: The Foundation of Change

20:23 Addressing the Vicious Cycle of Behavior

23:14 Overcoming Persistent Pain Points for Officials

26:25The Importance of Mentorship and Training

29:21 Creating a Supportive Environment for Officials

33:00 The Human Element of Officiating

35:09 The Need for Positive Narratives

37:45 Encouraging Respect and Appreciation for Officials

41:00 The Exciting Future of Officially Human

43:47 Final Thoughts: The Experience of Sports

51:03 Outro-Call to Action

Summary:

In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta interview Noah Katz, founder of the UMPIRE Channel. They discuss the concept of 'gumption' and how it has played a crucial role in Noah's journey as an umpire and social media influencer. Noah shares his experiences in officiating, the challenges he faced, and the impact of social media on promoting officiating. The conversation also touches on building a supportive community, balancing responsibilities, and the unique experiences he has had, including working with the Savannah Bananas. In this engaging conversation, Noah Katz shares his experiences as a young umpire, discussing the thrill of officiating at major league parks and the importance of mentorship in officiating. He highlights the role of social media in promoting officiating and inspiring the next generation. The discussion also touches on Noah's aspirations in officiating, memorable moments from his journey, and the educational content he creates to help future officials.

TheUmpireChannel

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gumption and the UMPIRE Channel

03:00 Noah Katz's Journey in Umpiring

06:07 The Impact of Social Media on Officiating

08:59 Building a Team and Community Support

11:57 The Role of Gumption in Success

15:08 Challenges Faced in Officiating and Content Creation

18:05 Traveling and Balancing Responsibilities

20:47 Experiences with the Savannah Bananas

23:19 Umpiring at Major League Parks

25:21 Mentorship in Officiating

27:00 Inspiration from Established Officials

29:29 The Role of Social Media in Officiating

31:26 Future Aspirations in Officiating

33:00 The Impact of the Umpire Channel

37:06 Memorable Moments in Umpiring

41:02 Educating Future Officials

Summary:

In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta reunite with officiating friends to discuss the importance of the officiating family. They explore personal stories, the Referee Educational Forum, and the bonds formed through officiating. The conversation highlights the support system within the officiating community, the excitement of officiating, and the significance of mentorship and connection in the journey of becoming a better official.

Chapters

00:00 The Officiating Family Reunion

01:07 Jimmy Casas

02:02 Wilson Holland

02:56 Aaron Schlessinger

04:03 Officiating Family

04:44 Defining Officiating Family

09:17 The Importance of Mentorship in Officiating

13:51 The Referee Educational Forum

18:05 Building Connections and Community

22:39 The Transition from Student to Staff

27:37 The Lasting Impact of Officiating Relationships

30:27 Reconnecting Through Officiating

32:00 The Impact of Officiating Family

35:52 Celebrating Milestones Together

38:44 Navigating Highs and Lows in Officiating

42:58 The Importance of Family Support

45:03 Educating and Elevating the Officiating Community

47:49 The Human Side of Officiating

49:26 Excitement in the Game of Officiating

Summary:

In this conversation, Barry Mano shares information and stories about the founding of REI (Referee Enterprises Inc.) and NASO (National Association of Sports Officials. We also dive into the Letter E - Ethics with Barry and discuss the importance and challenges of being ethical within the officiating world. Conversation includes the theme and overall direction of the first issue of Referee, some myths and misconceptions regarding officials and the role of impartiality in officiating, adapting to change in officiating and the amazing Six-Word Memoir Project.

REI (Referee Enterprises Incorporated)

NASO (National Association of Sports Officials

Chapters

00:00 Intro Clips Barry Mano

02:19 Welcome Letter E - Ethics

03:39 Barry's Journey and the Birth of REI and NASO

06:08 A Drive and a Dashboard

08:13 Theme of First Issue of Referee

09:37 Importance of Ethics in Officiating

10:55 Impartiality

15:14 Challenges of Impartiality and Ethical Conduct

16:53 Impactful Articles in Referee Magazine

23:08 Assault Legislation and Protection of Officials

29:33 The Thrill of Officiating

30:22 Building a Community of Officials

32:14 Promoting the Positive Side of Officiating

35:04 Six-Word Memoir Project

41:04 Myths and Misconceptions about Officials

44:06 Adapting to Change in Officiating

47:43 Outro - Call to Action