If Karina Tovar were to reach the big leagues in 2024, she too would be making history as the National Football League’s (NFL) first Latina referee. Tovar’s journey from her childhood in Mexico to officiating at the highest level of American football exemplifies determination and passion. Tovar’s appointment makes her one of only five women to have officiated in the NFL’s 106-year history. She represents what is becoming a larger community that hopes to see more diversity in professional sports.
Tovar came from the north-central Mexican state of Zacatecas. He was raised in a family that loved sports, particularly basketball and football. Her father, Salvador Tovar Sr., and brother Salvador Jr. were Los Angeles Lakers super fans. As a kid, Tovar looked up to Lakers stars Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, which helped stoke her passion for competition. Her childhood love of sports eventually launched her career as a college football game official. Eventually, she found her way to the NFL.
In 2019, though, she got a lucky break when she was hired by the United Football League (UFL), clearing her route to the NFL. She is currently on Clete Blakeman’s crew. This season, she is one of the most visible, as one of just two women officiating, joining Sarah Thomas. Tovar’s story is an inspiring story that reflects the values of hard work, resilience, and a commitment to inspire our future generations.
A Journey of Hard Work and Determination
Tovar’s trip started with a deep love for college football that she cultivated as a kid. She went to a refereeing camp taught by longtime official Gerry Austin, where she got introduced to the basic skills of officiating. During the course of one session, Tovar had a particularly unique and outstanding experience. Austin literally stood behind her and reassuringly affirmed her signal on a catch and run out into the flat.
“[Austin’s] standing right behind me and in front of everybody he tells me that’s a completed pass, and I’m just freaking out. We are not supposed to argue with the instructors.” – Karina Tovar
Her commitment to getting better because her focus led her to begin working Conference USA games in 2019. In the process, she received experience that was invaluable. Tovar knows that experience is key to moving up in officiating.
“At that level, you just want to pursue experience as much as you can.” – Karina Tovar
As she ascended through those leagues, Tovar deepened her understanding of the rules of play and how to officiate their interpretations. She was involved in experiential learning through hands on training camps and clinics, as well as in-depth practical application and classroom study.
“There are training camps, two- or three-day clinics you can go to, and it’s an intense sunup to sundown thing where it’s football on the field, studying football in the classroom,” – Karina Tovar
Tovar exemplifies her hardcore dedication to her physical health and fitness. She maintains a regular year-round fitness regimen, going to gym and jiu-jitsu classes several times a week.
“She is a very hard worker, so she is always working in the gym, trying to stay at peak performance because the NFL refs, they have to keep up with the best players running down the field.” – del Cid
Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Others
So when she got the call to let her know she was joining the NFL, that was an unreal moment. According to an individual from the officiating office who was responsible for informing the presiding, they emphasized the need to become very comfortable with the NFL rulebook.
“The day I got the call is a blur,” – Karina Tovar
Tovar’s journey became something larger than her own success. It led her to pursue improving the experience of others in her community. She hopes to be a role model for more Latino elected officials to come. In March, she ventured even further, flying to Monterrey, Mexico. There, she directed a referee camp and passed on her vast wisdom, experience and passion to the next generation of officials.
“You know what? It’s been a blessing to just really soak in the opportunity to represent [my community],” – Karina Tovar
Her commitment, she says, comes in part from a profound gratitude for all that her family sacrificed to give her the opportunity to follow her dreams. With each game she officiates, Tovar relishes the pride and responsibility of advocating for her ancestry.
“I’m so proud of my parents, of what they have done, all they’ve sacrificed, all that they have taught me. I’m overwhelmingly humbled to have this opportunity, and it makes me want to work harder and put more work into it.” – Karina Tovar
Looking Forward: A Vision for Change
That’s a testament to how strong Tovar’s journey in the NFL has been. She is committed to equipping Latinos (male and female) to chase their dreams in the sports industry. When we’re breaking down barriers, anything is possible. It reinforces the need to make authentic representation a priority.
Her hope, and the hope of her family, is that one day they will all watch her call a game in Mexico City. From the sidelines, they are cheering her on as she makes her way through this trailblazing position in professional football.
“As you want to move up, you’re essentially investing into yourself,” – Karina Tovar
Through her resolve and pursuit of greatness, the NFL is better with Karina Tovar, and her contributions will spread far beyond just being a referee. She personifies the spirit of progress. Those who aspire to enter male-dominated fields are often inspired by her.
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