From A to Zebra

Dana Pappas, Nate Acosta
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Welcome to a podcast that addresses everything "Official" From A to 🦓 with hosts Dana Pappas, Director of Officiating Services/NFHS & Nate Acosta, NCAA Women's Basketball Official/Former Assistant to the Commissioner of Officials in New Mexico. A plethora of topics delving into the world of officiating and sport officials with special guests and other interesting information aimed to Elevate, Educate, and Excite everyone about Officials.

  1. 13 HR AGO

    From A to Zebra Podcast S2:E31 Letter Y - Year-Round guest Alex Skandalis

    Summary In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas speaks with Alex Scandalis, CEO of United Umpires, about his journey in officiating, the mission of United Umpires, and the challenges and rewards of being an umpire. They discuss the importance of balancing life and officiating, the roles of conference coordinators, and provide valuable advice for new umpires. The conversation emphasizes the dedication of officials and the significance of building relationships within the officiating community. #UnitedUmpires Takeaways Alex Scandalis started umpiring at a young age for extra money. United Umpires serves the entire baseball community, not just umpires. Balancing work and personal life is a challenge for officials. New umpires should explore multiple sports to stay engaged. The role of conference coordinators varies by level of play. Young umpires need support from their families and communities. Building trust is essential in officiating relationships. Officials work hard and care deeply about their roles. The journey of an umpire can lead to significant opportunities. It's important to provide constructive feedback to officials. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of an Umpire 06:23 United Umpires: Mission and Structure 11:34 Balancing Life and Officiating 21:06 Advice for New Umpires 25:34 Roles of Conference Coordinators 30:37 Building Relationships in Officiating 34:33 The Evolving Role of College Coordinators 38:01 Advice for Young Umpires and Family Support 45:47 Challenges and Rewards in Umpire Training 54:15 Understanding the Human Side of Officiating 01:00:11 riverside_ed_- take 02 _ sep 25, 2024 001_from_a to zebra (1).mp4

    1h 1m

  2. 5 DAYS AGO

    From A to Zebra Podcast S2:E30 Letter U - Unexpected (Special Edition) guests Lou Murphy, Joey Shelnutt, and Ken Washington

    Summary In this special edition of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas engages with football officials Lou Murphy, Joey Shelnutt, and Ken Washington to discuss the heart-stopping incident that occurred during a game, where Joey suffered a heart attack. The conversation explores their personal journeys into officiating, the immediate response to the emergency, the aftermath of recovery, and the support from the officiating community. The episode emphasizes the importance of health awareness and CPR training for officials, as well as the strong bonds formed within the officiating family. Takeaways Joey Shelnutt's journey into officiating began through encouragement from a friend. Lou Murphy started officiating to stay involved in sports as his son played. Ken Washington's officiating career took off quickly due to mentorship. The incident on August 22nd was a life-changing moment for Joey Shelnutt. Lou Murphy acted quickly to perform CPR on Joey during the emergency. Community support for Joey came from officials across the country, including NFL referees. Health checks and CPR certification for officials are crucial for safety. The officiating community is a close-knit family that supports each other. Joey plans to return to officiating after his recovery. Lou emphasizes the importance of being proactive about health in officiating. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Heart of Officiating 02:47 Personal Journeys into Officiating 07:32 The Incident: A Life-Threatening Moment 12:56 Recovery and Medical Insights 17:58 The Officiating Community's Response 23:47 Reflections and Future Considerations 27:59 riverside_ed_- take 02 _ sep 25, 2024 001_from_a to zebra (1).mp4

    29 min

  3. 7 OCT

    From A to Zebra Podcast S2:E29 Letter X - X-Factor guest Dr. Mercer Morgan, III

    Summary In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas and co-host Nate Acosta engage with Dr. Mercer Morgan III, a military veteran and officiating enthusiast. They explore the unique X-Factor that military experience brings to officiating, discuss Mercer's personal journey through cancer, and highlight the importance of mentorship and support within the officiating community. Mercer shares his insights on overcoming adversity, the significance of preparation, and the role of the officiating family in navigating challenges. His story serves as an inspiration for officials and listeners alike, emphasizing resilience and dedication in both sports and life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 10:18 The X Factor in Officiating 19:33 Overcoming Adversity: The Cancer Journey 28:16 The Role of Support Systems in Officiating

    34 min

  4. 3 OCT

    From A to Zebra Podcast S2:E28 Letter W - Woman (Part 2) guest MK McGee

    Summary In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta engage with MK McGee, a seasoned basketball official and advocate for female sports officials. They discuss MK's journey in officiating, the challenges faced by women in the field, and the importance of mentorship and community. MK shares insights from her platform, Her Call, which aims to elevate the stories of female officials and address the gender gap in sports officiating. The conversation highlights the intersection of teaching and officiating, the significance of relationships in the officiating community, and offers valuable advice for aspiring female officials. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 03:41 MK McGee's Officiating Journey 06:19 The Importance of High School Officiating 09:07 Teaching and Officiating: Parallels and Challenges 12:03 The Evolution of Officiating Education 14:38 The Launch of Her Call: A Community for Female Officials 17:19 Addressing the Gender Gap in Officiating 20:06 The Impact of Female Officials in Sports 22:42 The Growth and Success of Her Call 25:08 Common Themes Among Female Officials 28:03 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 31:45 Navigating Minority Experiences in Officiating 33:41 The Importance of Relationships in Officiating 35:03 Balancing Motherhood and Officiating 37:42 Support from Male Allies 40:33 Challenges of Female Officials 42:29 Overcoming Gender Disparities in Officiating 49:05 Advice for Aspiring Female Officials 51:12 Elevating Women's Stories in Officiating 55:02 riverside_ed_- take 02 _ sep 25, 2024 001_from_a to zebra (1).mp4

    56 min

  5. 1 OCT

    From A to Zebra Podcast S2:E27 Letter W - Woman guest Kelly Dine

    Summary In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta interview Kelly Elliott Dine, a trailblazing female umpire in baseball. Kelly shares her inspiring journey from coaching her sons to becoming a prominent figure in officiating, breaking barriers in a male-dominated sport. The conversation explores the challenges she faced, the importance of professionalism, and the role of allies in supporting women in officiating. Kelly also discusses how her military background has shaped her approach to officiating and encourages other women to pursue careers in this field. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Women in Officiating 02:54 Kelly's Umpiring Journey 07:41 Highlights of Kelly's Season 14:33 Challenges Faced by Women in Officiating 24:27 Breaking Barriers in Officiating 28:55 The Journey of Female Officials 31:57 The Impact of Military Experience on Officiating 37:06 Encouraging Women in Officiating 40:44 Celebrating Achievements and Future Aspirations

    44 min

  6. 24 SEPT

    From A to Zebra Podcast S2:E26 Letter V - Value guests David Jackson and Rob Cuff

    Summary In this episode of the From A To Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta engage with executive directors Rob Cuff and David Jackson to discuss the value of officials in interscholastic athletics. They explore the challenges faced by state associations, the importance of recognizing and valuing officials, and strategies for retention. The conversation emphasizes the need for strong relationships, support, and resources to enhance the officiating experience and ensure the sustainability of interscholastic sports. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 02:27 Career Journeys of Executive Directors 04:45 Day-to-Day Responsibilities and Challenges 07:34 The Value of Officials in Interscholastic Athletics 10:07 Recognizing and Valuing Officials 12:53 Building Relationships with Officials 21:01 Appreciation and Recognition for Officials 23:07 The Importance of Relationships in Retaining Officials 24:46 Compensation and Recognition for Officials 26:30 Creating a Culture of Belonging for Officials 30:28 Educational Resources and Support for Officials 34:10 The Value of State Associations to Officials 39:51 The Impact of Officials on Young Athletes 46:06 riverside_ed_- take 02 _ sep 25, 2024 001_from_a to zebra (1).mp4

    47 min

  7. 17 SEPT

    From A to Zebra Podcast S2:E25 Letter U - Unexpected guest Kristi Moore

    Summary In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, host Dana Pappas and co-host Nate Acosta engage with Kristi Moore, a softball umpire who became a voice for officials after experiencing an unexpected assault during a game. Kristi shares her journey into officiating, the shocking incident that changed her life, and the aftermath that followed, including legal consequences and the importance of accountability in youth sports. Despite the challenges, Kristi highlights unexpected positives that emerged from her experience, including advocacy for better protection for officials and the support she received from the officiating community. The conversation emphasizes the need for respect and understanding towards officials and the importance of fostering a positive environment in youth sports. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kristi Moore's Journey 04:45 The Unexpected Incident: Assault on the Field 07:36 The Aftermath: Legal Consequences and Community Response 10:21 Reflections on Safety and Security in Youth Sports 12:57 The Impact of Parental Behavior on Youth Sports 15:46 The Role of Officials: Humanizing the Umpire Experience 18:48 Unexpected Positives: Advocacy and Awareness 21:17 Lessons Learned: Safety Protocols for Officials 31:28 Courtroom Drama and Consequences 32:51 Speaking Out and Opening Doors 34:10 The Impact of Advocacy on Officiating 35:52 Community Support and Brotherhood in Officiating 38:16 Resilience and Moving Forward 41:49 Empowerment and Inspiring Future Generations 48:03 The Role of Officiating in Sportsmanship 50:03 Excitement and Passion in Officiating 54:34 riverside_ed_- take 02 _ sep 25, 2024 001_from_a to zebra (1).mp4

    55 min

  8. 10 SEPT

    From A to Zebra Podcast S2:E24 Letter T - Transforative guest Mark Stroia

    Summary In this episode of the From A to Zebra podcast, hosts Dana Pappas and Nate Acosta engage with Mark Stroia, a seasoned official with over 35 years of experience across multiple sports. The conversation delves into the transformative nature of officiating, exploring Mark's journey from a three-sport athlete to a dedicated official and educator. The discussion highlights the importance of balancing officiating with family life, the rewards and challenges of being a multi-sport official, and the critical role of mentorship in recruiting the next generation of officials. Mark shares personal anecdotes that illustrate the emotional connection to officiating and the impact it can have on individuals and communities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Officiating and Mark's Journey 07:26 Balancing Officiating with Family and Career 11:52 Teaching and Officiating: A Shared Skillset 13:55 Rewards and Challenges of Being a Three-Sport Official 18:22 The Value of Officiating: Income and Recruitment 23:30 Transformative Power of Officiating 25:29 The Transition from Sports to Life After Competition 27:48 The Reality of Student Athletes' Futures 29:17 The Transformative Power of Officiating 31:30 Mentorship and Growth in Officiating 38:15 Recruiting and Retaining New Officials 43:04 Educating, Elevating, and Exciting Future Officials 46:35 riverside_ed_- take 02 _ sep 25, 2024 001_from_a to zebra (1).mp4

    47 min
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About

Welcome to a podcast that addresses everything "Official" From A to 🦓 with hosts Dana Pappas, Director of Officiating Services/NFHS & Nate Acosta, NCAA Women's Basketball Official/Former Assistant to the Commissioner of Officials in New Mexico. A plethora of topics delving into the world of officiating and sport officials with special guests and other interesting information aimed to Elevate, Educate, and Excite everyone about Officials.

Information

  • Creator
    Dana Pappas, Nate Acosta
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    59
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dana Pappas, Nate Acosta
  • Show Website
    From A to Zebra

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