OGDEN, Utah — Doug Toole, the Big Sky Conference’s coordinator of football officials, announced he will retire following the 2012 season.

Toole took the position overseeing the football officials in 1999 while continuing to officiating in the National Football League.

During his tenure in the Big Sky, Toole has been responsible for the hiring, training, assignment and evaluation of officials. He’s conducted a highly-respected teaching clinic annually in Park City, Utah, featuring instruction from current and former National Football League officials.

“Doug has been a rock for our league for more than a decade,’’ said Big Sky Conference Commissioner Doug Fullerton. “Building a strong football officiating program was a primary goal when we hired Doug. He has done a tremendous job building that program. He is highly-respected in his profession and is a consummate professional. We thank him for his years of service. He will always remain a part of our family.’’

Toole served 19 seasons in the NFL, officiating Super Bowl XXXII and XXXV. In addition, he worked five conference championships and several divisional playoff games. His final game was the 2007 Pro Bowl.

Toole began his officiating career in 1960, and began working games in the Big Sky in 1972. In 1975, he started officiating games in the Western Athletic Conference.

“Officiating has been a wonderful experience with many great memories,’’ Toole said. “My wish is that my family, friends and associates know the experience would not have been possible without their support.’’

The native of Coaville, Utah, attended North Summit High School, and graduated in 1963 from Utah State. He attended physical therapy school at Stanford, graduating in 1964.

In November of 2011, Toole was enshrined in the Utah Sports Hall of Fame. He has also been enshrined in the National High School Sports Hall of Fame, and the Utah High School Activities Association Officials Hall of Fame.

He will continue practice at Toole & Associates Physical Therapy and Wellness in Coalville.

— Big Sky Conference Information

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