Is this the answer to the shortage, an untapped resource? From a Facebook post:
🏈 This is significant! On August 26, Mississippi high school football history will be made. SuperTalk Mississippi News reports the state’s first-ever all-female referee crew will officiate a game between (Jackson) Murrah High and Cleveland Central.
“This opportunity is absolutely monumental as it is a positive step in the right direction. Women have always wanted a seat at the table. I’ve been told, early in my career as a baseball umpire and football referee, ‘They’re not ready to see a woman in these sports!’ Why limit us?” Referee Adrienne Barnes asked adding, “Men officiate women’s sports, so why can’t women officiate men’s sports? If we have to take the bruises to open doors for more women, this is the crew to do it.”
Rounding out the crew with Barnes, who will serve as referee, are the following:
Sarah Fleming – Umpire
Sherri Vaughans – Head Line Judge
Fran Adams – Line Judge
Felicia Davis – Side Judge
Alona Alexander – Field Judge
Dominique Sutton – Back Judge
Phylicia Cotten – 40s Clock
Constance Clark – Electronic Clock Operator
Tamika Lipsey – Chain Crew
Timika Morris – Chain Crew
Charmaine Smith – Chain Crew