John Laurie, Ph.D. began his officiating career over 40 years ago. He has officiated at every level including over 25 years as a referee in the Big 8 and Big XII Football Conferences. He served as president of the Football Officials Associations of both conferences and is a member of the Kansas Collegiate Officials Hall of Fame. He officiated as referee at numerous college championships including the Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, and Fiesta Bowl.