Origin Story
What started as a crisis became a calling...
In the early 2020s, a crisis was unfolding nationally across the sports industry: a shortage of sports officials. In 2022, RefReps decided it was time to fix the problem by creating a new, more effective way to grow the next generation of great sports officials. The concept was simple but powerful: create an accessible, classroom-ready tool that could be used to recruit, train, and prepare future officials in a structured and meaningful way.
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RefReps launched a pilot program in 2022 with the Indiana High School Athletic Association, seven schools, and 79 students. Since then, the RefReps Officiating Education System has expanded to over 1,000 schools and organizations, preparing officials across 15 sports, introducing tens of thousands to what it means to be an official. Founded by entrepreneur Kyle Armstrong and retired NFL official and primary investor Mark Baltz, RefReps is driven by a talented team on a mission to support officials at every level.
Help the world see the game through the eyes of the officials.
Too often, the role of officials is misunderstood or overlooked, yet they are essential to ensuring that every game is played fairly, safely, and with respect for the spirit of competition. At RefReps, we believe when players, coaches, fans, and administrators understand the perspective of officials, sports become more than just competition—they become opportunities for learning, growth, respect, and connection. By providing innovative technology, training, and education, we empower individuals to see the game through the eyes of the offficials, building greater empathy, understanding, and appreciation for the vital role they play in every game.
Through this mission, we are working to create a culture of sportsmanship where respect runs deeper and the game is better for everyone involved.
The Mission
