OFFICIATING
AMERICAN FOOTBALL
New to football? Let’s help you get started! Read more below how you can get involved!
OFFICIATING AMERICAN FOOTBALL
From the amateur to the professional ranks, football officials play a key role in the sport. Football officials work flag and tackle disciplines.
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Interested in becoming an official?
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Reach out below to find out more!
AUSTRALIAN GRIDIRON OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION
The Australian Gridiron Officials Association (AGOA) is the peak body overseeing officiating in American Football across Australia and beyond. Established in 1993, AGOA is dedicated to providing highly trained and certified officials for American Football games at all levels, including Men's, Women's, and Juniors. We operate under the guidelines of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) rules, ensuring that games are played safely and fairly.
Our Mission
At AGOA, we take pride in our role as the backbone of American Football officiating in Australia. Our mission is to cultivate a thriving community of officials who are not only skilled and certified but also passionate about the game. Through comprehensive training and ongoing assessment, we equip our officials to provide safe, fair, and enjoyable game experiences for players, coaches, and fans alike.
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What We Do
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Officiating Excellence: AGOA supplies proficient officials who play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of American Football games throughout Australia. From local competitions to state, national, and even international events, our officials are at the forefront of maintaining the game's spirit.
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Training and Accreditation: We are dedicated to nurturing new talent in American Football officiating. AGOA offers comprehensive training and accreditation for aspiring officials, preparing them to uphold the highest standards of the sport.
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Community and Networking: Our officials are encouraged to connect with their peers locally and internationally, fostering a sense of community among those who share a passion for American Football officiating.
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​Join Us
​If you're located near a major metropolitan area in ACT, New South Wales, Queensland (metropolitan and regional), South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria, or Tasmania and have an interest in becoming an official, we welcome you to explore our 'How to Join' page for more information. Join AGOA and be part of a dedicated team that plays an integral role in shaping the future of American Football in Australia.
Experience the excitement of American Football from a unique perspective with AGOA!​
FAQ
Who Can Officiate?
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Anyone with an interest or background in the game of football (flag, touch or tackle)
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Must be in reasonably good fitness
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Must have a willingness to learn and work with others as part of a team
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Why Become An Official?
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Great way to stay physically active
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Give back to the game of football
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Stay involved in football
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Serve as a role model or mentor and develop leadership skills
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Meet new people and socialise
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Work as part of a team
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Learn new skills
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Develop people management and conflict resolution skills
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Development opportunities to advance through the accreditation levels
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Opportunities to participate in regional, national or international competitions
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Do Officials Get Paid?
Yes they do! Officials receive a game fee based on their accreditation level and the level of competition they are working.
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First Year’s Expectations
Your first year as an official involves a lot of learning. AGOA runs training courses online and in person and you will be contacted by your local training leader to participate with the local officiating team. They will provide you with training materials and guides to ensure you can become an effective American Football official.
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As part of an officials team, your fellow crew members will be there with you every step of the way, helping answer all of your questions and making sure that you’re in the right position to make the call.
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Reach Out
Ready to start your journey?
Reach out to us and we'll connect you in with your local state or club to get you started!
"It's not the will to win that matters—everyone has that. It's the will to prepare to win that matters."
— Paul "Bear" Bryant