NFL referee

Question
To learn how to become an NFL referee are there certain colleges for this or must you take classes on your own individually?  I am 16 years old and have a HUGE passion for sports although I am not the best athlete.  Also is for coaching is there a certain college besides just getting a teachers degree? Also for referee I have heard that you would need another job that makes 6 figures besides just being a referee. Is this true?  Thanks for your time and please e:mail me back at [email protected]

Jared
New Orleans, LA

Answer
Jared

Before you can become an NFL official you must first start officiating at lower levels (Pop Warner, high school, Jr. College, College [Div. 1-3])  There are no particular schools or colleges hat are designed to teach you to be an NFL official.  Officials start at their local association level - each state has an officials association.  You sign up with the association and they will require you to attend classes (usually once a week for 3 hours during the football season).  They will assign you to pop warner and high school games.  Once you get your experience 12-25 years they you are ready to apply to the NFL.  Going to officiating clinics and camps is an excellent way to catch the eye of officiating supervisors and advance up the ranks.  We as officials all have day time jobs.  Officiating is our second job.  As for coaching, a teaching degree helps.