What's My Why: Official Robert Williams
July 1, 2026
Robert Williams, Redford
Williams officiated 52 years total through his final football season in 2023, also contributing in basketball, baseball and softball during his highly-respected run. He received the MHSAA's Vern L. Norris Leadership in Officiating Award in 2011 for his contributions not only as one of the best on the field but to mentorship and education of officials, and multiple Norris winners since have recalled his support as they were beginning their own legendary careers making the call.
My dad was a coach, so there had to be some adversity in the house. So I had to become an official, but that actually helped me.
I loved officiating because of the fact that I’m with the kids, I can give back to the game, I’m right there – best seat in the house. You see the best games whenever you officiate, because the kids are there.
It’s just helping the kids out and helping the sports that you officiate.
“What’s My Why” is a weekly feature telling the stories of MHSAA-registered officials in their own words. If you’re an MHSAA official and would like to share your reason why, please submit a 15 to 45-second video, taken horizontally, to director of officials Sam Davis at [email protected].
Don't miss Officiate Michigan Day 2026, July 25 in Grand Rapids! Check out MHSAA.com/OMD to register and learn more.
What's My Why
June 24: Will Godfrey, Jackson - Watch
June 19: Jarrett Skorup, Midland - Watch
June 12: Brady Driver, Sturgis - Watch
June 8: Cindy Tyzo, West Bloomfield - Watch
June 3: Jeff Spedoske, DeWitt - Watch
June 1: Mike Carrier, Commerce Township - Watch
May 27: Stan Wright, Warren - Watch
May 26: Murray Rose, Zeeland - Watch
May 22: Mike VanLaan, Alto - Watch
May 18: Clint Abbott, Newaygo - Watch
Be the Referee: Goal Line Rules
October 18, 2017
In this week's edition, assistant director Mark Uyl explains a pair of rules that govern the football goal line when the defense gets the ball.
Be The Referee is a series of short messages designed to help educate people on the rules of different sports, to help them better understand the art of officiating, and to recruit officials.
Below is this week's segment – Goal Line Rules - Listen
At all levels of football rules, the most important line on the field is always the goal line. At the high school level, there are some very unique rules that govern the goal line, especially when the defense gets possession of the ball.
First is on a normal scrimmage play. If the defense gets possession of the ball in the end zone, either by picking up a fumble or intercepting a pass, that ball remains in play and the defense can return it all the way for a score.
However, on an extra point play or on any kicking play, once the ball is possessed by the defense in the end zone, the ball is dead, and no return or advance can be made.
Past editions
October 12: No 1st-Year Fee - Listen
October 5: Athletic Empty Nesters - Listen
September 28: Misunderstood Football Rules: Kicking - Listen
September 21: Preparation for Officials - Listen
September 14: Always Stay Registered - Listen
September 7: Other Football Rules Changes - Listen
August 31: Pop-Up Onside Kicks - Listen
August 24: Blindside Blocks - Listen