Author: Darren Winkley

Darren is an NCAA Division I football official and three-time Ironman. After teaching elementary school for 17 years, he decided to leave the classroom and pursue his passion for fitness. Darren was introduced to Pilates by his wife, Michelle, who has been practicing Pilates for over ten years. Reluctant to go at first, figuring that it would be too easy or not masculine enough, he soon learned just the opposite. Doing Pilates on a regular basis has helped him to increase his strength and flexibility, correct muscle imbalances, and prevent injuries. Darren completed the 600-hour training program through Power Pilates to earn his Complete Apparatus and Mat certifications. He is also a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, holds three TRX certifications, and is a certified Spinning Instructor. Darren earned his BA in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona and an MA in Elementary Education from Claremont Graduate University.
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CIF Officials Association

The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) made the decision to launch a new statewide registration and eligibility process for all high school sports officials in all sports.   For the 2025-2026 season, the registration will be voluntary. However, it will be mandatory at the start of the 2026-2027 season. All officials will be required to register through CIF Central HUB via ArbiterSports. The cost for registering is $29, and it includes insurance and a background check. It should also save the unit quite a bit of money on its insurance, which, in return, could possibly result in a reduction of dues!

If you would like to learn more about the program, please go to https://sgvfoa.com/cif-officials-association.

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New Uniform REQUIRED for Varsity Games

This year, the new CIF jersey will be required for all varsity contests. You can still use your old jerseys for lower level games, and it is okay if not everyone on the crew has the same shirt. Please do not wear the new shirts for Pop Warner or Jr. All-American games; they are only for CIF contests.

When purchasing a uniform shirt, please make sure it looks like the photo There are other shirts out there that are supposedly “CIF Approved”, but they are not the correct ones for us. You can find the shirts at Purchase Officials Supplies and at U.S. Official’s Supplies.

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Memorial Service for Mark Hamilton

There will be a memorial service for Mark on Saturday, July 19, 2025, 4:00 PM, at The Chapel, 61 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena, CA 91106. The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to https://gofund.me/9cc48017.

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SGVFOA Saddened by Loss of Two Former Officials

The San Gabriel Valley Football Officials Association is saddened by the passing of two former members. Mark Hamilton (left) fell from a ladder and suffered a neck injury, resulting in his death on June 17. Robert Plancich (right) evidently passed away in his sleep last month. Both Mark and Robert were long-time football officials and softball umpires and will be missed.

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Scott Root, Foothill-Citrus/Big Sky Official

I am sad to announce that fellow official, Scott Root from Foothill-Citrus, passed away this weekend unexpectedly after a very brief illness. “Rooterbus” was a longtime official in Foothill-Citrus and the Big Sky Conference, a teacher in Covina, and a family man; he was beloved by all.

There will be a viewing on Friday, May 16th from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at Oakdale Mortuary in Glendora. The Memorial Service/Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, May 17th at 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church of Covina.

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Eaton Fires

It goes with out saying that the Eaton Fire has been devastating to the San Gabriel Valley, especially the communities of Altadena and Pasadena. SGVFOA officials Kenny James and Kenny James, Jr., Michael Moore, and Raul Soto are among the thousands of people who have lost everything. Please help us in supporting them by donating to their GoFundMe campaigns.

Kenny James: https://gofund.me/f9abd79d

Michael Moore: https://gofund.me/14bc6a91

Raul Soto: https://gofund.me/4170a22d

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2024 Playoffs

The 2024 playoffs list has been posted to our playoffs page. Congratulations to those that made the cut. Remember that being on the list is an honor in and of itself and is not a guarantee of getting a playoff game. Check back weekly to see playoff assignments, and please go out and support our officials!

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2024 Study Guide

The 2024 Summer Study guide is now live on Arbiter. There will likely be several study groups for you attend and go over the study guide before taking it online. It will be open until 8/4/24, and you must pass it with a minimum score of 80%. You can find it under the SGVOA Central Hub in Arbiter.