From Friday night lights to weekend youth leagues, the games we love depend on one critical role - officials. And right now, that role is in high demand.
Across Ohio and the nation, a growing shortage of trained and qualified sports officials is creating challenges for leagues at every level. In response, community leaders are stepping up to inspire the next generation to take the field - not as players, but as the decision-makers who keep the game fair, safe and moving forward.
The Cleveland Football Officials Association is proud to host the 3rd Annual “The Art of Sports Officiating” on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. here at Polaris - an engaging, hands-on event designed to introduce attendees to the exciting and rewarding world of officiating.
Whether you're a sports enthusiast, former athlete or someone looking for a new way to stay connected to the game, this event offers a unique opportunity to:
Learn how to become a licensed official in Ohio across multiple high school sports
Connect directly with experienced officials and industry leaders
Gain insight into training, certification and game assignment processes
Explore a pathway that offers flexibility, extra income and a front-row seat to the action
This year’s event will again feature special guest Mark Baltz, a retired NFL official with 26 years of experience, who will share powerful stories from his journey to the professional level and highlight unforgettable moments from his career on the field. Attendees will also hear from current and former officials representing all levels of competition who will share their pathway to the professional ranks - from local fields to the national stage.
Sponsored by Polaris Career Center, the Cleveland Browns, RefReps and the Cleveland Football Officials Association, this collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to strengthening the future of sports in Northeast Ohio.
Athletic leaders, coaches, administrators, assignors and sports enthusiasts from recreational, scholastic and collegiate programs - as well as members of the sports media - are encouraged to attend and help champion this important cause. Together, we can ensure the integrity and continuity of the games our communities cherish.
Event Location:
Polaris Career Center
7285 Old Oak Boulevard
Middleburg Heights, OH
For more information, contact Rocky Neale, Recruiting Director of the Cleveland Football Officials Association, at Rneale58@gmail.com or 216.570.3893. See you on April 16!