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Maia Chaka Became the First Black Woman to Officiate a Regular Season NFL Game

Line judge Maia Chaka tosses a ball during the first half of an NFL preseason between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans football game Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)

The fraternity of officials is getting more inclusive. Maia Chaka made history yesterday. The newest NFL Referee became the first Black woman to officiate a league game when the Carolina Panthers and New York Jets met at 1pm E.T on the first NFL Sunday of the season. Not only is she the first Black Women in the game, she also became the league’s third female to officiate, joining Shannon Eastin and Sarah Thomas.

Prior to being hired by the NFL on March 5, Maia worked with the Pac-12, Conference USA and the XFL. Just in case you’re wondering, NFL  refs can make a pretty decent living.

Congratulations Maia!


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