Female officials inspired by first woman to officiate this year’s Super Bowl

For the first time in 55 years, Sarah Thomas will take the field as the first woman to officiate this year’s Super Bowl.

“I was totally excited. That is so great,” said Amy Dianovich.

Dianovich of Kent is one of the few female football officials in Washington.

In 2019, Dianovich was on the sidelines of varsity games as part of the chain crew.

Seeing Thomas work her way up through the ranks makes her realize her larger gridiron goals.

“It even gives me aspirations of maybe I can do that someday,” Dianovich said.

By day, Dianovich is a financial analyst in the IT department for Costco.

She’s also a mom who hopes to show her two daughters that it’s never too late to try something new.

“Even though it’s a male dominated sport, as long as you have the passion and you’re willing to learn, you can do anything that you want,” she added.

Under the Friday night lights, Dianovich says she’s always felt supported in her role from players, coaches, and parents. She knows that may not always be the case.

She’s also grateful for Thomas to blaze the trail as she makes history on football’s grandest stage. And hopes it doesn’t stop there.

“It’s great that we’re finally getting in there after all this time,” said Dianovich. “I’m looking forward to seeing a game officiated by all women.”

Cox Media Group