News – Sheridan Media
Owen Mullinax of the Sheridan Football Officials Association appeared on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse to appeal to football fans, asking them to volunteer as officials.
Mullinax is an experienced football official who has officiated games at all school levels across Wyoming as part of the SFOA.
O. Mullinax
A growing problem, Mullinax said, could have a serious impact on football programs across the region. As the number of officials continues to decline — mainly due to retirements — games, schedules, and even junior high programs are at risk of being canceled.
According to Mullinax, Sheridan is on the smaller side of 4A. Only Laramie is smaller. Yet, Mullinax said Sheridan competes because they get participation top to bottom in the football program.
Mullinax fears that without new volunteers stepping up, Sheridan may lose the chance to fully participate. Local and regional officiating associations lose officials each year to retirement, work conflicts, and burnout — and fewer people are filling those gaps.
Fewer officials mean fewer opportunities for Sheridan youth to play. With already limited numbers, reduced game access could put student-athletes at a long-term disadvantage, Mullinax said.
O. Mullinax
For those who wish to step-up and become an official, training is required and Mullinax reassured the public that new officials will not be thrown into the pressures of varsity games. Instead, officiating games at the JR High levels and other games at the beginner level provides excellent training opportunities for new officials.
If you’d like to help preserve Sheridan’s proud football tradition, attend the SFOA meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 18, in the Sheridan High School Training Room, located in the new athletic wing. All materials will be provided. The association meets every Monday throughout the season.
For more information, contact Owen Mullinax at sheridanfootballofficials@gmail.com or call 763‑8856.
More Like this
Last modified: July 2, 2025