My biggest advice to an official who wants to pursue college or come into the NFL is to make sure you're doing it for the right reasons. If you're coming in just because you want to be the female in the NFL, then I think you're doing it for the wrong reasons. If you're doing it because you want to be the best official, then pursue it.
Sarah ThomasI do know there are still industries that are not on an equal playing field with women. My thing is, don't let that keep you from continuing to do what you know that you have to do. Don't look at it as an excuse, look at it as an opportunity.
Sarah ThomasThe term role model is thrown around a lot, and I always tell people, your role models are hopefully parents and great influencers in your life. If I fall into that category, then I will embrace it for sure.
Sarah ThomasThe media and the interviews are great, but that does not help me make a call on the field. To me, I've got to work the game, and I've got to be great at it.
Sarah ThomasInstead of waiting for opportunities to be handed to us, we need to create them. We need to advocate for ourselves.
Sarah ThomasMy biggest advice to an official who wants to pursue college or come into the NFL is to make sure you're doing it for the right reasons. If you're coming in just because you want to be the female in the NFL, then I think you're doing it for the wrong reasons. If you're doing it because you want to be the best official, then pursue it.
Sarah Thomas