Thomas in position to become NFL's first female official

[boston bean]

The Saints moved Thursday's practice indoors, as a crush of national media descended upon the Black and Gold's workout.

They weren't at camp to watch the players or coaches this time. Instead, all eyes were on one woman poised to make pro football history.

Sarah Thomas is a wife and mother of three from Mississippi, who's in position to become the first female official in the NFL.

"I don't feel a weight on my shoulders. It's exciting," Thomas said. "I didn't set out to be the first or a pioneer, but I will embrace it, if that does happen."

Thomas is in New Orleans working the Saints' practices Thursday and Friday, as well as Saturday's scrimmage, as part of the NFL's Officiating Development Program.

She's a finalist to get one of the next full-time openings on an NFL officiating crew - likely in the 2014 season.

"The guys that I officiate with, it's a profession. They understand that we're all there for the same goal, to get through the game, go unnoticed, be uneventful and so I don't ever feel like I'm isolated or anything," Thomas said. "I've been welcomed and part of the group."

http://www.foxsportssouthwest.com/story/Sarah-Thomas-in-position-to-become-NFLs-?blockID=925657&feedID=3742

[Jamaal510]

1. It's about time.

Female pro sports have both men and women as refs and coaches, so there's really no reason why male pro sports can't be more progressive on this. The average player will listen to their coach and the zebras and do their job as long as they're getting paid those million$. That's just what I think, though.

[jimlup]

2. I sincerely hope her the best

However she's going to be under the microscope for at least the foreseeable future. I really hope she shows the prejudice ones that would judge her that way a thing or two.

[Skittles]

4. women are used to "being under the microscope"

[burnodo]

3. Woohoo!!!

Now a woman can make bad calls!