Meet Gene Steratore: The Renowned Referee

Gene Steratore is a former American football official in the National Football League (NFL) for 15 seasons from 2003 to 2017.

Born on January 11, 1965, in Niles, Ohio, Steratore began his officiating career in 1987. He officiated high school and college football before joining the NFL in 2003.

Steratore was known for his consistent and accurate officiating, and he was selected to officiate four NFL playoff games, including two NFC Championship Games. He also worked as a referee in the NFL's Officiating Development Program, mentoring and training new officials.

After retiring from the NFL in 2017, Steratore joined CBS Sports as a rules analyst. He provides commentary on NFL games and helps explain the intricacies of the game to viewers.

Personal Details

Birth Name:	Gene Michael Steratore
Born:	January 11, 1965
Birthplace:	Niles, Ohio
Height:	5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
Weight:	215 lb (98 kg)
Alma mater:	Youngstown State University
Occupation:	Former NFL official, CBS Sports rules analyst

Gene Steratore is widely respected in the NFL community for his dedication to the game and his commitment to officiating. He is a role model for aspiring officials and a valuable resource for fans and media who want to understand the rules of football.

Gene Steratore

Gene Steratore, a respected former NFL official, is known for his consistent and accurate officiating. Here are six key aspects of his refereeing career:

• Accuracy: Steratore was known for making the correct calls, even on difficult plays.
• Consistency: He applied the rules fairly and evenly, regardless of the teams involved.
• Experience: Steratore officiated 15 seasons in the NFL, including four playoff games.
• Leadership: He served as a mentor and trainer for new officials in the NFL's Officiating Development Program.
• Respect: Steratore was respected by players, coaches, and fans for his dedication to the game.
• Communication: He was able to clearly and effectively communicate with players and coaches on the field.

These key aspects contributed to Gene Steratore's success as an NFL referee. His accuracy, consistency, and experience made him one of the most respected officials in the league. He also played a vital role in training and mentoring the next generation of officials, ensuring the continued high quality of officiating in the NFL.

1. Accuracy

Accuracy is one of the most important qualities of a good referee. Gene Steratore was known for his ability to make the correct call, even on difficult plays. This was due in part to his:

• Attention to detail: Steratore was always focused on the game and paid close attention to every detail. This allowed him to see things that other officials might miss.
• Knowledge of the rules: Steratore had a deep understanding of the NFL rulebook. This allowed him to make quick and accurate decisions, even on complex plays.
• Experience: Steratore officiated 15 seasons in the NFL. This gave him the experience and confidence to make the right call, even under pressure.

Steratore's accuracy was a major factor in his success as an NFL referee. It allowed him to maintain control of the game and ensure that the rules were being followed fairly. He was a role model for other officials and helped to set a high standard for officiating in the NFL.

2. Consistency

Consistency is one of the most important qualities of a good referee. It ensures that the rules are being applied fairly and evenly, regardless of the teams involved. Gene Steratore was known for his consistency, and it was a major factor in his success as an NFL referee.

• Impartiality: Steratore was always impartial in his officiating. He did not favor one team over another, and he made his calls based solely on the rules of the game.
• Objectivity: Steratore was able to put aside his personal feelings and make objective decisions. He did not let his emotions or biases influence his calls.
• Fairness: Steratore was always fair in his officiating. He gave both teams a chance to win, and he did not make calls that would unfairly benefit one team over the other.

Steratore's consistency was a major factor in his success as an NFL referee. It allowed him to maintain control of the game and ensure that the rules were being followed fairly. He was a role model for other officials and helped to set a high standard for officiating in the NFL.

3. Experience

Gene Steratore's 15 seasons of experience in the NFL, including four playoff games, were a major factor in his success as a referee. This experience gave him the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make the right calls, even under pressure.

One of the most important things that Steratore learned from his experience is how to manage the game. He knew how to keep the game under control and prevent it from getting out of hand. He was also able to build relationships with players and coaches, which helped him to diffuse tense situations.

Steratore's experience also helped him to develop a thick skin. He was able to withstand the criticism that comes with being a referee, and he never let it affect his performance. He was always focused on doing his job to the best of his ability.Steratore's experience is a valuable asset to the NFL. He is a role model for other officials and he helps to ensure that the games are officiated fairly and consistently.

In conclusion, Gene Steratore's 15 seasons of experience in the NFL, including four playoff games, were a major factor in his success as a referee. His experience gave him the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make the right calls, even under pressure. He is a role model for other officials and he helps to ensure that the games are officiated fairly and consistently.

4. Leadership

Gene Steratore's leadership extended beyond his officiating duties. He was also a mentor and trainer for new officials in the NFL's Officiating Development Program. This role allowed him to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of officials, helping to ensure the continued high quality of officiating in the NFL.

• Mentorship: Steratore provided guidance and support to new officials, helping them to develop their skills and knowledge of the game. He was always willing to share his insights and experiences, and he took a personal interest in the success of his mentees.
• Training: Steratore conducted training sessions for new officials, covering a variety of topics, including the rules of the game, officiating techniques, and game management. He was a patient and effective teacher, and he was able to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner.
• Evaluation: Steratore also evaluated the performance of new officials, providing them with feedback and guidance on how to improve their officiating. He was always fair and objective in his evaluations, and he helped new officials to identify their strengths and weaknesses.
• Advocacy: Steratore was an advocate for new officials, both on and off the field. He spoke out against abuse of officials and he worked to create a positive and supportive environment for new officials to learn and grow.

Steratore's leadership in the Officiating Development Program was a major contribution to the NFL. He helped to develop a new generation of officials who are committed to excellence and who are dedicated to upholding the integrity of the game.

5. Respect

Gene Steratore's dedication to the game of football earned him the respect of players, coaches, and fans alike. This respect was built on a foundation of fairness, consistency, and professionalism.

• Fairness: Steratore was known for making fair and impartial calls, regardless of the teams involved. He did not favor one team over another, and he always strived to uphold the integrity of the game.
• Consistency: Steratore was also known for his consistency. He applied the rules of the game evenly and fairly, regardless of the situation. This consistency helped to create a level playing field for all teams.
• Professionalism: Steratore was always professional in his demeanor and conduct. He treated players, coaches, and fans with respect, even in the most challenging situations. His professionalism helped to set a positive example for others.

Steratore's dedication to the game and his commitment to fairness, consistency, and professionalism earned him the respect of everyone involved in the game of football. He is a role model for other officials and a credit to the NFL.

6. Communication

Gene Steratore's ability to clearly and effectively communicate with players and coaches on the field was a major factor in his success as a referee. This skill allowed him to maintain control of the game, resolve disputes, and ensure that the rules were being followed fairly.

• Clarity: Steratore was able to communicate his decisions clearly and concisely, even in the most heated moments of a game. This helped to avoid confusion and ensure that everyone on the field understood what was happening.
• Objectivity: Steratore was always objective in his communication, even when dealing with difficult players or coaches. He did not let his personal feelings or biases influence his decisions, and he always communicated his decisions in a professional and respectful manner.
• Respect: Steratore treated players and coaches with respect, even when they disagreed with his decisions. He was always willing to listen to their concerns and explain his reasoning, which helped to build trust and rapport.
• Leadership: Steratore's communication skills also allowed him to be an effective leader on the field. He was able to motivate his crew and ensure that they were all working together as a team.

Steratore's communication skills were a valuable asset to the NFL. He was able to use his skills to create a positive and respectful environment on the field, which helped to ensure that the games were played fairly and competitively.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gene Steratore, NFL Referee

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions about Gene Steratore, a respected former NFL referee.

Question 1: What are some of Gene Steratore's key accomplishments as an NFL referee?

Answer: Gene Steratore is widely recognized for his consistent and accurate officiating during his 15 seasons in the NFL. He officiated four NFL playoff games, including two NFC Championship Games, and was selected to work as a referee in the NFL's Officiating Development Program.

Question 2: What qualities made Gene Steratore a successful NFL referee?

Answer: Steratore's success as an NFL referee can be attributed to his focus on accuracy, consistency, and fairness. He maintained control of the game, ensured adherence to the rules, and earned the respect of players, coaches, and fans.

Question 3: How did Gene Steratore contribute to the development of future NFL referees?

Answer: Steratore served as a mentor and trainer for new officials in the NFL's Officiating Development Program. He shared his knowledge and experience, provided guidance, and evaluated their performance to help them improve their skills and prepare for a successful officiating career.

Question 4: What were some of the challenges Gene Steratore faced as an NFL referee?

Answer: Steratore faced the challenge of maintaining impartiality and making fair and consistent calls in high-pressure game situations. He also dealt with criticism and scrutiny from players, coaches, and fans, which required a thick skin and a commitment to professionalism.

Question 5: What is Gene Steratore's current role in the NFL?

Answer: After retiring from officiating in 2017, Gene Steratore joined CBS Sports as a rules analyst. He provides commentary on NFL games, explains the intricacies of the game to viewers, and shares his insights on officiating and player conduct.

In summary, Gene Steratore's dedication to fairness, consistency, and professionalism earned him respect throughout the NFL. His contributions as a referee and mentor have positively impacted the league and its officials.

For further information, you can explore the following resources:

• Gene Steratore Wikipedia page
• CBS Sports article on Gene Steratore's analysis of a controversial NFL call

Conclusion

Gene Steratore's 15-year NFL officiating career was marked by accuracy, consistency, and fairness. As a respected referee, he maintained control of games, ensured adherence to the rules, and earned the respect of players, coaches, and fans. Steratore's dedication extended beyond the field, as he mentored and trained aspiring referees, contributing to the development of future NFL officials.

Steratore's professionalism and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to those involved in officiating and sportsmanship. His legacy reminds us of the importance of impartiality, consistency, and respect in maintaining the integrity of the game. As the NFL continues to evolve, Steratore's principles and contributions will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of officiating and the sport of football.