25 Facts About Clete Blakeman

Source: Sportsnet.ca

Who is Clete Blakeman? Clete Blakeman is a name synonymous with integrity and fairness in NFL officiating. Born on June 23, 1964, in Omaha, Nebraska, Blakeman's journey from a small-town athlete to a top NFL referee is inspiring. He played quarterback at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and later pursued a career in law. His father, Glen, a respected official, influenced his path into officiating. Starting with high school games, Blakeman quickly rose through the ranks, joining the NFL in 2008. Known for his calm demeanor and consistent officiating style, he has officiated major games, including Super Bowl 50. Blakeman's legacy extends beyond the field, mentoring future referees and contributing to his community.

Key Takeaways:

Clete Blakeman's journey from a multi-sport athlete to a respected NFL referee was shaped by his early passion for football and his father's influence, showcasing the importance of family and dedication in achieving career success.
Blakeman's legacy extends beyond the football field, with his involvement in the Madden NFL franchise and commitment to mentorship and community involvement, highlighting the impact of his leadership and integrity both on and off the field.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Education

Clete Blakeman's journey to becoming a respected NFL referee began in Omaha, Nebraska. His early years were marked by a deep passion for football and a strong family influence.

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Born on June 23, 1964, in Omaha, Nebraska, Blakeman developed a passion for football early on. His hometown roots played a significant role in shaping his future career.
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Multi-sport athlete in high school, Blakeman excelled in various sports, showcasing his athletic prowess and understanding of the game's intricacies.
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College football at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln saw Blakeman as a three-year letter winner at quarterback, further solidifying his love for the sport.
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Father's influence: Glen Blakeman, a respected football and basketball official, significantly impacted Clete's career choice, introducing him to the world of officiating.

Transition to Officiating

Blakeman's path to becoming an NFL referee was paved with dedication and hard work, starting from high school games to the professional league.

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High school officiating: Following in his father's footsteps, Blakeman began officiating high school games, gaining invaluable experience and laying the foundation for his future success.
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Degree in business administration: After high school, Blakeman pursued a degree from the University of Nebraska, balancing his academic endeavors with his passion for football.
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Local high school and college games: Blakeman started officiating local games, quickly catching the attention of officiating supervisors with his natural aptitude for the role.
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Big 12 Conference: His career took a significant step forward when he joined the Big 12 Conference, marking his progression towards the NFL.

NFL Career Milestones

Blakeman's NFL career is marked by numerous milestones, including his promotion to referee and officiating high-profile games.

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Hired by the NFL in 2008: Initially serving as a field judge, Blakeman's talent and dedication quickly earned him a promotion.
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Promoted to referee in 2010: This marked a major milestone in Blakeman's career, showcasing his leadership and officiating skills.
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Nine postseason games: Since becoming a referee, Blakeman has been assigned to nine postseason games, including three conference championship games.
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Super Bowl 50: One of Blakeman's most memorable games was Super Bowl 50, where he served as the referee, ensuring the game proceeded smoothly.

Unique Contributions and Style

Blakeman's contributions to football extend beyond officiating, including his involvement in the Madden NFL franchise and his distinctive officiating style.

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Penalty announcements in Madden NFL: Since 2013, Blakeman's voice and likeness have been used for penalty announcements in the popular video game franchise.
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Consistent, classy, and confident: Known for his officiating style, Blakeman is admired for his ability to maintain control in high-pressure situations.
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Leadership qualities: Blakeman's leadership is evident in how he conducts himself on and off the field, earning respect from peers and players alike.
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Mentorship: Off the field, Blakeman actively mentors aspiring referees, passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation.

Personal Life and Community Involvement

Outside of football, Blakeman is a dedicated personal injury attorney and an active community member, reflecting his diverse interests and commitment to integrity.

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Personal injury attorney: Blakeman is a partner at Carlson Blakeman LLP in Omaha, Nebraska, showcasing his skills beyond the football field.
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Community involvement: He supports local youth sports programs and promotes values of integrity and fairness in sports.
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Family legacy: Blakeman's father, Glen, played a significant role in his early life and career, instilling important values and traditions.
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High school routine: Blakeman often helped his father clean and shine his shoes, a cherished memory that highlights their close bond.

Memorable Moments and Legacy

Blakeman's career is filled with memorable moments, controversies, and a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future referees.

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Transition to NFL: Blakeman's swift transition from the Big 12 Conference to the NFL in 2008 marked the beginning of an impressive career.
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NFC Divisional Round playoff game: A memorable moment in Blakeman's career was the controversial coin toss during the game between the Arizona Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers.
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Team environment: Blakeman's experience as a player and official has been instrumental in his success, appreciating the camaraderie and shared passion within a team.
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Professionalism and integrity: Blakeman's legacy extends beyond the games he officiated, setting the standard for fairness and professionalism in football officiating.
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Impact on Madden NFL franchise: Since 2013, Blakeman's voice and likeness have been used for penalty announcements in the Madden NFL franchise, further solidifying his presence in the world of football.

Clete Blakeman: A Legacy of Integrity and Excellence

Clete Blakeman's journey from a small-town athlete to a respected NFL referee is truly inspiring. His early exposure to officiating through his father, Glen, laid a solid foundation. Playing quarterback at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln sharpened his understanding of the game. Transitioning from high school officiating to the Big 12 Conference, then to the NFL in 2008, Blakeman's rise was swift. Known for his calm demeanor and fairness, he officiated Super Bowl 50 and numerous postseason games. Beyond the field, Blakeman mentors aspiring referees and works as a personal injury attorney. His voice even features in the Madden NFL franchise. Blakeman's dedication to integrity, professionalism, and mentoring future referees ensures his lasting impact on football officiating. His story is a testament to hard work, passion, and the pursuit of excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

QWho is Clete Blakeman?

Clete Blakeman is a well-known figure in the world of American football, serving as a respected NFL referee. Before stepping onto the field in stripes, he played quarterback for the Nebraska Cornhuskers during his college years. His transition from player to official has made him a standout character in the sport.

QHow long has Clete Blakeman been an NFL referee?

Blakeman took on the role of an NFL referee in 2008. Since then, he's been a part of numerous memorable games, including taking charge of Super Bowl 50. His experience and fair judgment on the field have earned him praise from players, coaches, and fans alike.

QWhat was Clete Blakeman's profession before becoming an NFL referee?

Before donning the black and white uniform, Blakeman was a practicing attorney. His background in law has undoubtedly helped him in making quick, decisive, and fair calls on the football field. Balancing both professions, he showcases his versatility and dedication.

QHas Clete Blakeman received any awards or recognition for his officiating?

While specific awards for NFL referees are rare, Blakeman's selection to officiate Super Bowl 50 is a significant acknowledgment of his excellence in officiating. This honor is reserved for those who demonstrate the highest level of performance and professionalism throughout the season.

QWhat makes Clete Blakeman stand out as an NFL referee?

Blakeman's calm demeanor and clear communication on the field set him apart. His ability to manage high-pressure situations and make impartial decisions contributes to the smooth flow of the game. His background as a former player and a lawyer adds a unique perspective to his officiating style.

QCan fans interact with Clete Blakeman on social media?

While Clete Blakeman maintains a professional and low-profile presence, he's not widely active on social media platforms. Fans looking to follow his career and updates might find more success through NFL officiating forums or news articles about the games he officiates.

QWhat's a memorable game that Clete Blakeman has officiated?

One of the most notable games in Blakeman's career is Super Bowl 50, where the Denver Broncos faced off against the Carolina Panthers. His performance in this high-stakes game was widely praised, marking a pinnacle in his officiating career.

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