The Creighton Intramural Program continues to make itself known at the National Flag Football Championships by bringing home All-American honors.
Senior Dan Renfro was named an All-American official for his performance during the tournament held Jan. 3-5. He was one of 16 officials to receive this award. At the tournament which was held at the University of West Florida in Pensacola, Fla., Renfro was chosen to serve as the head official in the men’s championship game. Renfro seemed excited as he reflected on being named an All-American.
“It was cool,” Renfro said. “I set my goal last year to be the head ref for the men’s championship and it felt good to achieve my own goal.”
This was Renfro’s second straight year being named an All-American official. Intramural director Jason Gant was proud of Renfro’s hard work and accomplishments. Gant shed some light on Renfro’s performances at these tournaments.
“Dan being named All-American last year was a surprise,” Gant said. “He probably snuck in, but this year he left no doubt about it.”
Renfro’s accomplishments are adding on to the success of Creighton referees at the National Flag Football Championships. Tyler Burroughs was named an All-American official three separate times during his time at Creighton. Bob Jackson was another Creighton official who was named an All-American in 1985-86.
Gant said he is thrilled with the success and respect the intramural program is earning on a national level. He said that it is uncommon for intramural programs at smaller schools to get this much credit and recognition at national tournaments. He added that most of the top programs are big state schools.
“Our success means our kids are working very hard,” Gant said. “I think people from around the county can see the pride our kids take in officiating intramurals.”
Renfro put in lots of time and hard work to get to where he is today. He said he prepares for these tournaments by reading the rule book and looking for nuances that most officials would not be aware of. He also takes note of what evaluators tell him and he implements their ideas.
The surprising part is that Renfro had no interest in officiating sports until he came to Creighton. It all started his freshman year as he was looking for a job. He enjoyed playing sports and figured officiating intramurals would be a great way to stay involved. Now he is certified to officiate high school football and basketball.
“I plan to keep officiating at the high school level,” Renfro said. “It pays well and I enjoy it.”
Renfro said he will look into getting a graduate assistantship position at another university, allowing him to continue working for an intramural program. This role is similar to his current supervisor duties as he would continue to train officials and schedule games.