Sarah Thomas

NFL's Female Referee

Sarah Thomas: The Trailblazer of NFL Officiating

For decades, officiating in the National Football League (NFL) was exclusively a man’s job. That changed in 2015, when Sarah Thomas shattered one of football’s biggest barriers by becoming the first full-time female referee in NFL history. Since then, she has continued to break records, proving that women belong at the highest levels of professional football officiating.

Sarah’s journey to the NFL wasn’t easy—it required years of hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering passion for the game. Today, she stands as a role model for women in sports and an inspiration for aspiring officials everywhere. Let’s take a deeper look at her journey, challenges, and historic achievements in the NFL.

Early Life and Career: Where It All Began

Sarah Thomas was born in Pascagoula, Mississippi, in 1973. As a child, she developed a love for sports, particularly basketball, and played at a competitive level. She attended the University of Mobile on a basketball scholarship, where she honed her athletic mindset and leadership skills.

However, her career took a different turn when she unexpectedly entered the world of officiating. In 1996, Sarah and her brother attended a Mississippi High School Athletic Association meeting, where she became intrigued by football officiating. Unlike many referees who start with lifelong dreams of officiating in the NFL, Sarah’s journey began with curiosity and determination.

Breaking Into Officiating

Starting at the high school level, Sarah quickly proved herself as a knowledgeable and skilled official. Despite entering a male-dominated field, she didn’t let skepticism or stereotypes hold her back.

1996 – Began officiating high school football games in Mississippi.
2007 – Became the first woman to officiate an NCAA Division I football game.
2013 – Was invited to work at an NFL officiating development program, catching the attention of top officials.

By 2015, Sarah’s impressive officiating career and attention to detail earned her a full-time spot as an NFL official—the first woman ever to achieve this milestone.

Graphic Design for Website

download (4)

download (3)

Did You Know?

Making History: Sarah Thomas Joins the NFL

When Sarah Thomas was hired by the NFL in April 2015, she became the first full-time female referee in league history. Her debut took place in the 2015 season opener between the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs, marking the beginning of a historic career.

Her hiring wasn’t just a symbolic move—it was a recognition of her talent, accuracy, and ability to handle the intensity of the NFL. In a league where officiating decisions can make or break games, Sarah proved that she belonged.

First woman hired as a full-time NFL referee
Worked as a line judge and later became a down judge
Highly respected for her knowledge of the rules and game management

Despite the pressure of being the only woman on the field, Sarah handled every game with confidence and professionalism, gaining the respect of players, coaches, and fellow referees.

Super Bowl LV: Another Glass Ceiling Shattered

Sarah’s biggest achievement came in 2021, when she became the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl. She served as the down judge for Super Bowl LV, where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs.

Her selection for the biggest game of the year wasn’t just historic—it was well-earned. The NFL only selects the best officials for the Super Bowl, meaning Sarah had proven herself as one of the top referees in the league.

First woman to officiate a Super Bowl
Broke another barrier in NFL history
Paved the way for more women to reach elite officiating roles

The sight of Sarah Thomas on the Super Bowl field, wearing her signature ponytail under the referee’s cap, became an iconic image of progress in sports.

Sarah Thomas’ Husband and Children

While Sarah Thomas is well-known for her groundbreaking NFL career, she is also a dedicated wife and mother. She is married to Brian Thomas, a businessman and supportive partner who has stood by her side throughout her journey in officiating.

The couple shares a strong bond, and Brian has been one of Sarah’s biggest supporters as she navigated the challenges of breaking barriers in a male-dominated profession.

Sarah and Brian’s Children

Sarah and Brian Thomas have three children together: Brady Thomas, Bailey Thomas and Bridley Thomas

Despite her demanding schedule as an NFL official, Sarah has always prioritized her family. She has spoken in interviews about how she balances motherhood and officiating, often managing long travel schedules while ensuring she is present for her children’s important moments.

A Mother and a Trailblazer

Sarah Thomas has never let her career interfere with her role as a mother. She often emphasizes the importance of hard work, resilience, and chasing dreams, teaching her children that gender should never be a limitation.

She has shared that her kids love sports and that they take pride in seeing their mother on the football field, proving that women can succeed in any career they choose.

Sarah Thomas’ Impact on Women in Football

Sarah’s success has opened doors for more women to pursue careers in sports officiating. Since her hiring, the NFL has welcomed more female referees, coaches, and executives.

Her journey is a reminder that progress takes time, but with dedication, anything is possible. As the NFL continues to evolve, Sarah Thomas’ name will always be remembered as a true pioneer in the sport.

Thanks to Sarah, the path is now open for more women to follow in her footsteps, not just in officiating but in every part of the NFL.

Do you think Sarah Thomas will become the NFL’s first female head referee? Let’s keep the conversation going!

Sarah's Social Media:

Click the button below to check out Sarah’s Instagram and stay updated with his latest posts!

Sarah Thomas Instagram

Other NFL Female Referees

Maia Chaka – In 2021, Maia Chaka became the first Black female official in NFL history. A longtime educator and referee at the collegiate level, she was selected for the league’s officiating development program in 2014 before finally earning her spot on the field. Her debut came in a game between the New York Jets and the Carolina Panthers, marking a significant milestone in NFL history. She has since continued to inspire aspiring female officials, proving that perseverance and dedication can break barriers.

Shannon Eastin – Before Sarah Thomas, there was Shannon Eastin, who became the first woman to officiate an NFL game in 2012. She served as a replacement referee during the NFL referee lockout, making history in a preseason game between the Green Bay Packers and San Diego Chargers. Despite her role being temporary, her presence on the field challenged the norms of the league and opened doors for future female officials. Her groundbreaking moment proved that women could handle the demands of officiating at the highest level of football.

Robin DeLorenzo – In 2022, Robin DeLorenzo became the third full-time female referee in NFL history, following Sarah Thomas and Maia Chaka. She worked her way up from officiating college football games in the Big Ten Conference before earning a spot as an NFL down judge. Her promotion to the league was a testament to her skills, experience, and determination in a competitive field. DeLorenzo’s success further proves that women are making significant strides in professional football officiating. She continues to set an example for aspiring female referees, proving that hard work and perseverance can lead to success at the highest levels of the sport.

Terri Valenti – While not an on-field referee, Valenti made history as the NFL’s first female instant replay official in 2017. Her role is crucial in reviewing close calls and ensuring fair play. She has extensive experience as a referee at lower levels, proving that women have a place at all levels of officiating. Before joining the NFL, she officiated in various leagues, including college football and the Arena Football League, building a strong reputation for her decision-making skills.

Her groundbreaking role in the replay booth demonstrates that women can play a vital part in shaping the game, even from behind the scenes.

Amanda Sauer – Although not a full-time NFL referee, Amanda Sauer has officiated NFL preseason games and has made a name for herself in college football officiating. She was the first openly gay referee in the Big Ten Conference and continues to break barriers in the sport. Her experience includes officiating high-profile college games, where she has earned respect for her accuracy and composure under pressure. Sauer’s presence in football officiating highlights the growing inclusivity and acceptance in sports, paving the way for more diversity in the industry.

These women have paved the way for more female officials in the NFL, breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. Through their dedication, expertise, and resilience, they have proven that officiating at the highest level is based on skill, not gender. Their presence on the field and in the replay booth serves as a powerful reminder that opportunities in professional football continue to expand for women. As more female referees step into the spotlight, they inspire future generations to pursue careers in officiating, contributing to the growth and inclusivity of the sport.

Their achievements mark a significant shift toward greater diversity in the NFL, proving that talent, determination, and knowledge of the game are what truly define success.