From A to Zebra

Summary: In this episode, we explore the vital role of athletic administrators and officials in education-based sports, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and mutual support to enhance game day experiences and sportsmanship. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to NIAAA and Athletic Administrators 02:54 The Evolving Role of Athletic Administrators 05:39 Personal Journeys of NIAAA Leaders 11:46 Goal...

Summary: In this episode, Suzanne Lowry shares her inspiring journey from college volleyball player to top international referee, highlighting the importance of motivation, organization, and continuous learning in officiating at the highest levels. Discover how her experiences and insights can motivate officials to elevate their careers and stay committed to excellence. Chapters: 00:00 Introductio...

Summary: In this episode, we explore the exciting world of stunt, a rising sport that combines elements of cheerleading and head-to-head competition. Guests Marissa Cox and Amber Freeman share insights into officiating, the sport's growth, and opportunities for officials. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Stunt and Its Growth 04:11 Understanding the Sport of Stunt 11:23 Officiating in Stunt: Rol...

Summary: In this episode, we explore the expansive world of Little League, its organizational structure, and the innovative development programs for umpires. Guests Gerry Davis and Stu Hartenstein share their journeys, insights, and initiatives that are shaping the future of youth baseball and softball officiating. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Umpiring Journeys 04:32 Understanding Little League...

Summary: In this episode, Andrea Kelley, a dedicated swimming official, shares her journey, the unique bonds formed among officials, and the importance of mentorship and collaboration across different levels of sport. Discover the nuances of swimming officiating, her inspiring experiences, and her goals for the future. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Swimming Officiating 02:10 Andrea's Journey...

Summary: In this episode, youth sports advocate and coach John Orr discusses the impact of adult behavior on youth sports, the importance of focusing on life lessons, and how to foster a positive environment for young athletes. He shares insights from his book 'Hijacked' and his work with the Sports Reclamation Project. Sound Bites: "Control what you can control." "You're like the boy who cried wo...

Summary: In this episode, Haywoode Workman shares his inspiring journey from NBA player to referee and nonprofit leader. Discover the importance of selflessness, the impact of officiating, and innovative initiatives like the HBCU Hoops Invitational that aim to elevate HBCU sports and inspire the next generation. Sound Bites: "You pack and unpack 10-12 times a game." "Refereeing changed my life." "...

Summary: In this inspiring episode, husband and wife officiating duo Leonard and Jalayna Longhorn share their unique journeys into officiating, the importance of community connection, and how officiating strengthens their marriage and family bonds. Discover insights on mentorship, community impact, and balancing officiating with family life. Sound Bites: "Get better with every rep." &quo...

Summary: In this inspiring interview, Robert Smith shares his journey from a college football player to a Big Ten official, emphasizing the importance of integrity, community service, and the transformative power of officiating. Discover how his principles and experiences can elevate your understanding of character and leadership in sports and life. Sound Bites: "Doing what's right when n...

Summary: In this episode, Jimmy DeBell shares his extensive officiating journey, insights on legacy, and the importance of mentorship in officiating. Discover how to build credibility, learn from legends, and carry forward the traditions that shape the future of sports officiating. Key Topics: Jimmy DeBell's officiating journey from flag football to NFL The importance of legacy and mentorship...

Summary: In this insightful interview, NFL referee Land Clark shares his journey, work ethic, and the importance of preparation and passion in officiating. Discover practical tips for officials at all levels and the value of staying connected to your roots. Sound Bites: "If you're prepared, you're not scared." "Just do the math. 10, 15 games, 150 plays." "Watch film from your perspective as an off...

Summary: In this episode, Travis Fanning shares his officiating journey from middle school to collegiate sports, emphasizing the importance of youth involvement, standards, and mentorship in officiating. Discover insights on recruiting young officials, maintaining professionalism, and fostering a safe, welcoming environment for newcomers. Sound Bites: "We need youth to keep the officiating ci...

Summary: In this episode, NFL umpire Steven Woods shares his journey from college football to the NFL, emphasizing the importance of planning, preparation, and mental agility in officiating. Discover practical tips for officials at all levels to elevate their game through strategic planning and mental resilience. Sound Bites: "You've got to always want it." "Reset your mind and focus on the presen...

Summary: In this episode, we explore the remarkable career of Marc Ratner, a legendary figure in sports officiating, boxing, and UFC. Discover his journey from high school sports to the White House, and learn valuable lessons on officiating, leadership, and adapting to new challenges. Sound Bites: "A parachute landing into the ring was unforgettable" "Asking the referee if he was su...

Summary In this episode, Dr. David Piller shares his extensive journey in basketball officiating, his role on the Indiana Hoosiers' table crew, and the importance of officiating in sports. Discover insights into the skills needed, the evolution of officiating, and how officiating enhances the sports experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 02:09 David Pillar's Offic...

Summary In this inspiring episode, Greta Lange-Henry shares her journey into umpiring, breaking barriers as a woman in baseball, and the impactful work of Level UMP supporting underrepresented officials. Discover how passion, perseverance, and community are transforming the sport and empowering the next generation. Takeaways Passion and perseverance can lead to breaking barriers in sports. Support...

Summary: In this episode, NFL official Anthony Jeffries shares his journey from high school officiating to the NFL, emphasizing the importance of grassroots programs, mentorship, and continuous learning in officiating. Discover how giving back and building strong foundations can elevate your officiating career at any level. Keywords: officiating, NFL, grassroots, mentorship, game management, offic...

Summary: In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas interviews Gene Steratore, a former NFL referee and current rules analyst. They discuss Gene's journey into officiating, the challenges of managing multiple sports, and the importance of empathy in officiating. Gene shares insights on the evolution of officiating, the significance of mentorship, and the need to honor off...

Summary: In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas speaks with Alex Scandalis, CEO of United Umpires, about his journey in officiating, the mission of United Umpires, and the challenges and rewards of being an umpire. They discuss the importance of balancing life and officiating, the roles of conference coordinators, and provide valuable advice for new umpires. The conversat...

Summary: In this special edition of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas engages with football officials Lou Murphy, Joey Shelnutt, and Ken Washington to discuss the heart-stopping incident that occurred during a game, where Joey suffered a heart attack. The conversation explores their personal journeys into officiating, the immediate response to the emergency, the aftermath of recovery,...

Summary: In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas and co-host Nate Acosta engage with Dr. Mercer Morgan III, a military veteran and officiating enthusiast. They explore the unique X-Factor that military experience brings to officiating, discuss Mercer's personal journey through cancer, and highlight the importance of mentorship and support within the officiating communi...

Summary: In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta engage with MK McGee, a seasoned basketball official and advocate for female sports officials. They discuss MK's journey in officiating, the challenges faced by women in the field, and the importance of mentorship and community. MK shares insights from her platform, Her Call, which aims to elevate the st...

Summary: In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta interview Kelly Elliott Dine, a trailblazing female umpire in baseball. Kelly shares her inspiring journey from coaching her sons to becoming a prominent figure in officiating, breaking barriers in a male-dominated sport. The conversation explores the challenges she faced, the importance of professionalism,...

Summary: In this episode of the From A To Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta engage with executive directors Rob Cuff and David Jackson to discuss the value of officials in interscholastic athletics. They explore the challenges faced by state associations, the importance of recognizing and valuing officials, and strategies for retention. The conversation emphasizes the need for stron...

Summary: In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas and co-host Nate Acosta engage with Kristi Moore, a softball umpire who became a voice for officials after experiencing an unexpected assault during a game. Kristi shares her journey into officiating, the shocking incident that changed her life, and the aftermath that followed, including legal consequences and the importance...