Local husband-and-wife duo are first to officiate a state football game

By Kris Goracke

Reporter

“The first time I officiated a football game, I walked down the bleachers to take the field. Behind me, I heard whispers from girls in the student section: “Is that a female? Did you see a ponytail? That’s so cool!” recalled Minnewaska Area teacher and coach Linda Mills of Glenwood. 

Fast-forward three years to the 2024 Class 4A football state semifinal at U.S. Bank Stadium, where history was made: Linda and Bill Mills became the first husband-and-wife duo to officiate a state semifinal football game, during the matchup between Totino-Grace and Orono.

Linda’s Story

A lifelong football fan, Linda has always enjoyed the sport, particularly cheering on the Vikings and the Minnesota Gophers. Long before considering a role as an official, Linda frequently attended high school football games where Bill was on the field.

Three years ago, when Bill’s officiating crew needed an umpire, Linda’s athletic background as a former collegiate basketball player and extensive coaching experience in multiple sports at Minnewaska Area High School seemed like a natural fit. With some encouragement, she decided to give officiating a try.

Linda initially planned to ease into the role as a substitute. “I thought starting as a substitute would let me take it slow, but there’s no such thing,” she recalled. “I was busy almost every Friday night.”

Despite the unexpected demand, Linda embraced the role. “I enjoy the game and the challenge of being an official,” she said. One of the first adjustments she noticed was the speed of play. “As a fan in the bleachers, the game feels fast, but on the field, watching every move, it’s on a whole different level.”

Becoming a football official also meant dedicating significant time to learning the rules. “There are so many rules to understand,” Linda admitted. “I ask many questions, and the crew has been incredible and supportive. We use radios to stay in constant communication while on the field.”

Over time, Linda’s field experience helped her grow more confident. “The game’s speed is still fast, but I’ve adjusted to the pace and feel much more relaxed now,” she said.

As the umpire on her officiating crew, Linda takes on one of the most physically demanding roles. She’s responsible for running to follow the plays, retrieving the ball, and accurately placing it on the line of scrimmage.

She encourages anyone interested in officiating to try it. “You need to be willing to put in the time, but it’s worth it,” she said.

Bill’s Story

Bill Mills has been officiating football games for nearly 30 years. His career began as a junior high football coach during his early teaching years at Villard and Minnewaska Area High Schools. After a few seasons of coaching, he transitioned to officiating. Now, in the fall, he spends his Fridays under the glow of the Friday Night Lights.

Becoming a football official requires a commitment to learning and accountability. Officials must pass a yearly test, attend a rules clinic every three years, watch weekly videos and complete weekly quizzes to evaluate their knowledge and judgment on game calls throughout the season.

In 2011, Bill became a Regional Coordinator for the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL). This role involves observing and evaluating other officials throughout Western Minnesota and the state. 

In addition, he continues to officiate as part of a dedicated team that travels the area each Friday night. His crew includes Linda Mills as Umpire, Troy Nelson as Down Judge, Neil Nelson as Line Judge, and Leonard Gabbert as Back Judge. Bill serves as the team’s Referee.

A Team On and Off the Field

For Bill and Linda, Friday night football games have become their version of date night. “The drive to and from the game gives us time to catch up and visit,” Linda shared.

Their Saturdays often involve reviewing game tapes and reflecting on their calls—those they may have missed and those they got right. “The crew we work with has been tremendous,” Linda added. “The camaraderie is a big part of why I enjoy it.”

Bill agreed, noting the added respect their crew receives when Linda is on the field. “Overall, I think we’re a respected crew, but you can tell the respect seems to go up a notch when coaches and players see we have a female on our team,” said Bill.

As the Referee, Bill has the final say on any disputed calls. While he hasn’t overturned any of Linda’s decisions, he acknowledges the extra pressure she places on herself. “As a female, I think you must work a little harder to prove you can do the job,” Linda admitted. “I always want to do better.”

A Trailblazing Partnership

According to John Millea’s John’s Journal in the Minnesota State High School League News, Linda is one of 21 certified female high school football officials in Minnesota. By contrast, there are 1,405 certified football officials overall. 

Together, Bill and Linda Mills are not just making history—they are paving the way for future generations of officials, proving that passion and teamwork know no bounds, whether in marriage or on the football field.