Valued for their work on the field and off, the Eastern Michigan Officials Association football crew led by referee Joel Venla has been named the Michigan “High School Officiating Crew of the Month” for October by the Detroit Lions. 

Venla, from Marysville, is joined by umpire John Schwelhofer (Marysville), head linesman Mike Roosen (Macomb), line judge Tom Mailoux (Capac), back judge Ken Marzka (Lakeport), side judge Paul Guttowsky (Allentown) and field judge David Wood (Jeddo). The crew was one of the first in the EMOA to expand to seven officials and is often requested by schools for their biggest games.

They are noted for the wisdom and leadership they individually supply during local association meetings, with multiple serving as board members. They also are recognized for their mentorship of developing officials – and this crew has recruited a total of 12 new football officials over the last few years.

The Lions, in partnership with the MHSAA and National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), are recognizing an officiating crew monthly this season.