Steve Strimling has had a long and impactful career in football officiating, spanning over three decades. 

Career Progression:

He started officiating at the age of 12.

He officiated at the junior college and NCAA Division 3 levels in Southern California.

After an 11-year hiatus, he returned to officiating in Arena Football.

He later joined the WAC in 2006, followed by the Pac-12 in 2012.

In 2015, he became a referee (crew chief) in the Pac-12.

He was the Coordinator of Officials for the Alliance of American Football (AAF) before its closure in 2019.

He currently serves as the Director of USFL Officiating and Supervisor of the SCIAC.

Before the 2023 season, he was hired by the Big Ten as a replay supervisor. 

Notable Achievements and Contributions:

Strimling was the referee for the Cotton Bowl in 2021, a National Semifinal game, making him the first openly gay official to referee a National Semi-Final.

He is known for his dedication to helping other officials advance in their careers and is described as having a good nature and officiating brilliance that combine to elevate his work and the work of those around him.

He has made an effort to promote diversity in his crews and has been instrumental in the recruitment of female officials in the Big Ten, USFL and other leagues where he has worked, according to Outsports.

He is openly gay and has spoken about his experiences, hoping to inspire other LGBTQ officials to embrace their authentic selves, according to Outsports.