On the TunneySide of Sports February 10, 2020 #782 Up next… Super Bowl Sunday
After further review… A few years ago I co-authored a book titled: ‘Super Bowl Sunday – The Day America Stops‘ presented by CBS Sports and edited by author and sports journalist Matt Fulks. My contribution was focused on Super Bowl XI played between Minnesota Vikings and Oakland Raiders in the Pasadena Rose Bowl on January 9, 1977. Oakland won 32-14. It was the first Super Bowl played in that iconic stadium and I was the referee.
It was special to me since my dad, Jim Sr. was the referee in the college Rose Bowl game on January 1, 1947, between Illinois and U.C.L.A – the latter won 45-14. Exactly thirty years later – to the month – I officiated Super Bowl XI in that same stadium as my dad.
I have been fortunate to be associated with the National Football League for 60 years as it celebrates its 100th year!
Recently, Super Bowl LIV between the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs was a good football game to watch as I sat in my living room rooting for – wait for it – the third T*E*A*M – the officiating crew! The Chiefs won 31-21 and the officials did a masterful job.
It was also exciting to watch the announcement of the 2020 Pro Football Hall of Fame Class that will be inducted in August. It’s a special induction since the Pro Football HoF committee decided to reach back and induct players, coaches, and contributors from past playing days. Unfortunately, there was no mention of game officials.
It was a great Super Bowl weekend as well as honoring players and coaches who were selected to be in this special Class of 100. As I watched it was interesting for me since I was on the field with almost all of them. Gratefully, my 60 years in the NFL have served me well.
Certainly, my working with and my association with the NFL had its influence on my 40 years in the school business, as a teacher, coach, and high school principal. It was fun being on the school grounds each week with students and teachers who wanted to visit about NFL games.
As a professional speaker for over 40 years working with Fortune 500 companies, corporations, small and large businesses, and a variety of associations as well as educators and youth groups the NFL had an extra special influence.
Further, the honor of being inducted into six Halls of Fame may not have happened were it not for my 31-years as an NFL on-field official working four Super Bowls. I count my blessings.
Will you express your gratitude for the blessings that come your way?
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To contact Jim, go to JimTunney.com or email Jim@JimTunney.com. Jim’s books are full of inspiration and interesting stories. Please visit his online store to learn more.
Jim’s bobblehead ($30) and latest book ($20) “101 Best of TunneySide of Sports” are available at Jim Tunney Youth Foundation (501c3) P.O. Box 1440 Pebble Beach, Ca, 93953. Includes autograph and free S&H. Thank You!
Jim is available for speaking engagements on leadership and T*E*A*M Building. His books are available for $20 which includes shipping and tax. The Tunney Bobblehead is available for $30. Please visit JimTunney.com. Thank you!
