Congratulations, Pete!

NFL Celebrates High School Officiating Crew of the Year

In partnership with the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), Minnesota officiating crew honored as High School Officiating Crew of the Year

NEW YORK — Jan. 28, 2025 — The NFL has announced Minnesota-based high school officiating crew members Patrick Bergquist, Kevin Britt, Pete D. Cheeley, Dennis Harris and MJ Wagenson as the High School Officiating Crew of the Year. Nominated by the Minnesota Vikings, the NFL recognized the crew for their performance and contributions to the Minnesota State High School League during the 2024 season.

“Our partnership with the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) continues to educate us about the trends of high school football participation and has been a tremendous resource for all 32 NFL clubs,” said NFL Vice President of Football Development Roman Oben. “This award allows us to celebrate the officials for their performance on the field as we do for the players."

The Vikings recognized the officiating crew and their local initiatives this season. Members of the crew received a commemorative coin, framed certificate, custom jersey and a tour of the club’s headquarters and practice facility, Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center, to honor their contributions towards the Minnesota State High School League. All members of the crew will attend the Pro Bowl Games in Orlando where they will have the opportunity to officiate team and skill challenges.

“The Vikings are proud to recognize this outstanding group of officials,” said Minnesota Vikings Vice President of Social Impact Brett Taber. “They have showcased outstanding officiating skills, as well as a strong commitment to serving the community and supporting youth athletic programs. We are grateful for their service and thrilled to acknowledge their contributions.”

As part of the ongoing partnership between the NFL and the NFHS to increase participation in, and recognition of, high school football officials, the NFL has identified three major areas of support, including recognition, mentorship, and campaign support. The participating clubs collaborated with surrounding NFHS member state high school associations to fulfill the initiative's mission.

“The NFHS is proud to honor the “Crew of the Year” in Minnesota,” said NFHS CEO Dr. Karissa Niehoff. “This team has dedicated thousands of hours to supporting the football experience for so many high school student-athletes. Their commitment to young people, the game of football, and the officiating profession is certainly worthy of national recognition and celebration. They are the model team. The NFHS is grateful for their work and all that they have done to model excellence.”

The following 10 NFL clubs participated in this initiative in 2024, with partnership from their state football associations:

Atlanta Falcons (Alabama/Georgia)

Buffalo Bills (New York)

Cincinnati Bengals (Ohio)

Cleveland Browns (Ohio)

Indianapolis Colts (Indiana)

Las Vegas Raiders (Nevada/Utah)

Minnesota Vikings (Minnesota)

New York Giants (New York)

New York Jets (New Jersey)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Florida)

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Media Contacts: Avis Roper, Avis.Roper@nfl.com