Hannah Goodin delves into the world of high school football officiating with special guest James Arnold. With 38 years of officiating experience under his belt, James offers a unique perspective on what it takes to be a football official in Georgia. From handling pressure-packed moments on the field to navigating video review protocols, James shares invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of officiating. Discover how officials are trained, evaluated, and constantly striving to improve, all while ensuring the integrity of the game. Gain a deeper understanding of the crucial role officials play in high school sports and learn how you can support them for a better game-day experience for everyone involved. 

GHSA Refs

In this enlightening episode of Beyond the Lights, host Hannah Goodin invites you to delve deep into the world of high school football officiating alongside special guest James Arnold. With nearly four decades of officiating experience, James provides invaluable insights into the intricacies and challenges of the job. From the pressure of making split-second decisions on the field to the meticulous training and evaluation processes, James offers a candid glimpse into the demanding yet rewarding world of officiating.

Throughout the episode, James discusses the evolution of officiating, touching on topics such as handling hostile situations with coaches, implementing video review protocols, and striving for continuous improvement. You will gain a newfound appreciation for the dedication and professionalism required of officials, as James shares anecdotes and reflections from his years on the field. From navigating tight calls in crucial moments to maintaining composure amidst passionate fans, James illuminates the vital role officials play in ensuring fair play and upholding the integrity of high school sports.

As the conversation unfolds, Hannah and James explore the broader impact of officiating shortages and the importance of fostering respect and understanding among players, coaches, and fans. This episode will help you gain a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to the success of high school football games.