Former Grove teacher to ref in Super Bowl LVII

A former teacher in Grove, Oklahoma, will be a part of America’s biggest sporting event.

Cherokee Nation citizen Jerod Phillips has been chosen by the NFL as a down-judge official for Super Bowl LVII.

Phillips taught in Grove for 14 years and has been at Wickliffe in Salina, Oklahoma, for two years as a teacher and basketball coach.

Phillips is likely the first Cherokee Nation citizen to officiate a Super Bowl game.

“Cherokee Nation citizens continue to succeed in many different roles and industries across the world, and that includes the realm of professional sports. Jerod Phillips, who first began officiating amateur sports in 1993 and climbed his way to the professional ranks in the NFL by 2016, is yet another example of the limitless potential and ability that Cherokees possess,” Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said. “The Cherokee Nation is extremely proud of Jerod for becoming the first official to represent the tribe in a Super Bowl. This is one of many accomplishments he has already garnered in an outstanding professional career.”

Phillips said Wednesday he was honored to be recognized by the tribe and Chief Hoskin and Deputy Chief Warner for his career accomplishments.