Referee Magazine

64 legendary magazine covers. One ultimate champion. Introducing the most unique showdown of the year— presented by our partners at RefReps where bold design, key moments in officiating, and unforgettable photography battle it out bracket-style. Vote your favorite Referee magazine cover and crown the GOAT. referee.com/magazinemadnes…

For 50 years, Referee Magazine has shaped and been shaped by our readers. Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Executive Director Mark Uyl recalls Referee's impact on him and his family since his teenage years. See his full video and more here: youtube.com/watch?v=J863F5…

Poll: Multisport officials, do you schedule an intentional break between sports seasons to recover & recharge?

Since 1976, Referee Magazine has profiled hundreds of officials across every sport and level. During our 50th Anniversary year, we’ll be sharing some of these stories each week. Steve Javie officiated 13 consecutive NBA Finals and was called the best by his peers. But the path there was anything but straight. Originally published in the May 2008 issue of Referee Magazine. referee.com/steve-javie-nb…

For 50 years, Referee Magazine has shaped and been shaped by our readers. NFHS Chief Operating Officer Davis Whitfield comments that Referee Magazine is the epitome of how officiating has changed over the years. See his full video and more here: youtube.com/playlist?list=…

Pierluigi Collina was voted Best Referee in the World five times and chosen to officiate the 2002 World Cup Final. Meet the Italian soccer referee the rest of the world never forgot. Originally published in the January 2003 issue of Referee Magazine. referee.com/pierluigi-coll…

Poll: High school basketball officials, do you wear a traditional 1-inch full length black & white striped shirt for high school games in your state or some other style of uniform top?

For 50 years, Referee Magazine has shaped and been shaped by our readers. Steven Ellinger, who's worn many hats in the officiating industry - including Referee columnist! - talks about longevity and his relationship to the magazine. Part of our 50 Voices for 50 Years series, presented by @umpattirecom.

Since 1976, Referee Magazine has profiled hundreds of officials across every sport and level. Twelve years ago, we featured the great Joan Powell in our pages. Originally published in the May 2014 issue of Referee Magazine - Enjoy! referee.com/joan-powell-ef…

Registration is now open for the 2026 Sports Officiating Summit! #event/59604817-ac58-488c-83f6-7262ae0fe934/register" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">app.clearevent.com/eventPortal#ev…

Poll: Do added championship event protocols and procedures for officials add or relieve overall pressure?

Poll: Have you ever been suspended for an officiating decision you made during one of your assignments?

Poll: High school basketball officials, do you use delay warnings as a game-management tool?

Hot off the presses - the March 2026 issue is here!

Go here to see Dana's full video and many others! youtube.com/watch?v=b3wpAc…

Since 1976, Referee Magazine has profiled hundreds of officials across every sport and level. During our 50th Anniversary year, we’ll be sharing some of these stories each week. In 1972, Bernice Gera broke the gender barrier in professional baseball. This is the word-for-word account of her turbulent journey from the courtroom to the home plate. Originally published in the May 1979 issue of Referee Magazine. referee.com/bernice-gera-f…

FLASHBACK FRIDAY: In celebration of Referee's 50th year we're sharing some of the most memorable images from our archives. This pic was featured as the cover of our Oct. 1997 issue featuring a story on "Prison Umps" - prisoners who umpire ballgames while incarcerated. The facial hair and tattoos on this umpire were very controversial at the time even though they are fairly commonplace these days!

Are you passionate about sports officiating and skilled in writing and editing? Referee, the leading resource for sports officials, is looking for an Editorial Content Creator to join our team in Racine, Wisconsin. referee.com/careers/

See Ron's full video - and many more here: youtube.com/playlist?list=…

For 50 years, Referee Magazine has shaped and been shaped by our readers. Ron Foxcroft, founder of Fox 40 and all-around great guy, talks about discovering Referee magazine for the first time at the 1976 Olympics. Part of our 50 Voices for 50 Years series, presented by @umpattirecom.