Local Hero Shines as College Football Official

Local officials in action during a college football game, capturing the spirit of sportsmanship.

News Summary

Chris Bordelon, a Shreveport Police Department corporal, has made a name for himself in college football officiating. Recently officiating the Stanford vs. Cal game, Bordelon combines his passion for the sport with his role as a police officer. He has progressed from high school games to the officiating ranks of Conference USA and beyond. Bordelon is actively mentoring future officials and showcasing resilience learned from his own college football experience. His contributions reflect the positive impact one can have in both sports and community service.

Shreveport’s Own Chris Bordelon Hits the Gridiron as a College Football Official

In the bustling city of Shreveport, something exciting is happening off the field, thanks to a local hero who is making waves in the world of college football officiating. Chris Bordelon, a corporal with the Shreveport Police Department and the department’s public information officer, has recently stepped into the big leagues of sports officiating. This fall, he had the remarkable opportunity to officiate at the much-anticipated Stanford vs. Cal rivalry game, marking his debut in a Power 4 conference.

A Passion for the Game

Many know Bordelon for his commitment to keeping Shreveport safe, but during the weekends in the fall, his heart belongs to the football field. With a passion for the game that drives him to don the stripes, Bordelon expresses pure excitement about the atmosphere and the electrifying support of the fans at major college games, especially in sunny California.

His officiating journey has been nothing short of impressive. He began ten years ago, learning the ropes on local high school fields and honing his craft. Along the way, he has elevated his status, officiating regular games in Conference USA and even taking on the prestigious role of officiating at the Conference USA championship game. His experience doesn’t stop there, as he has also graced the fields at various notable schools, including Air Force, Boise State, Indiana, and Georgia. One of his standout accomplishments was officiating the Hawaii Bowl a few years back, showing just how far his dedication has taken him.

Building the Future of Officiating

Bordelon understands the challenges facing the officiating community today, including a shortage of referees across the board. That’s why he has made it his mission not just to officiate but to also mentor the next generation. He actively encourages aspiring officials through position meetings aimed at sharpening their skills and boosting their knowledge. Helping high school officials in Louisiana is just one way he gives back to the sport that has given him so much.

Cemetery of Challenges in College Football

Interestingly, Bordelon’s journey in athletics began as a player himself. He played college football at Tulane University, where his team faced numerous challenges during a season marked by Hurricane Katrina. The Tulane team had to travel for every game that year, a trying experience that taught him resilience and determination, traits he carries with him to this day, both as an officer and an official.

Words from the Top

The Shreveport Police Chief, Wayne Smith, has publicly commended Bordelon for his contributions to both the police force and his officiating efforts. Smith notes that Bordelon is a valuable asset, showcasing how dedication in one profession can positively influence another. It’s a testament to the multifaceted roles many individuals play in their communities!

Aiming for Excellence

As he continues his officiating journey, Bordelon remains focused on his goals, which revolve around being known as a reliable official who makes the right calls. He strives to consistently uphold a high level of performance on the field, as he understands how important the integrity of the game is to both players and fans alike. With his determination and passion, Bordelon is sure to leave a lasting impact on college football officiating.

Next time there’s a big college football game on, remember there might just be a Shreveport officer embodying the spirit of the game, ensuring it’s played fairly and passionately. With Chris Bordelon, it’s clear that the future of officiating is bright, friendly, and filled with heart!