MSHSL Officials Recognized as NFL/NFHS Crew of the Year
Posted: Wednesday, January 29, 2025 - 1:30 PM
Editor's note: Five Minnesota high school football officials have been honored as the NFL/NFHS High School Officiating Crew of the Year. Below is the announcement from the NFL and more information about the officials.
NEW YORK — The NFL has announced Minnesota-based high school officiating crew members Patrick Bergquist, Kevin Britt, Pete 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."
Meet the Crew:
Pat Bergquist, Gilbert
Referee
Bergquist’s officiating career began in 2000 in Louisville, Ky., before transitioning to MSHSL football in 2002. His journey from line judge to crew chief highlights his dedication to mastery and leadership. Bergquist has officiated at multiple levels, including high school and collegiate games, and has earned assignments in state quarterfinals and semifinals. A teamwork champion, Bergquist treasures the lifelong friendships he’s formed and credits officiating as a platform for personal growth. His focus on camaraderie and fairness underscores his commitment to the values of honesty and objectivity in officiating.
Kevin Britt, Apple Valley
Back Judge
Britt entered MSHSL officiating in 2007, rising through mentorship and collaboration. Joining a veteran crew as a back judge in 2014, Britt developed a profound appreciation for the relational aspect of officiating — fostering respect among officials, coaches and players. His dedication to the craft has earned him opportunities to officiate significant games. Yet, his motivation remains rooted in a love for the game and the chance to contribute to its continuity for student-athletes. Britt's genuine passion and adherence to fairness exemplify the integrity required in high school sports officiating.
Pete Cheeley, St. Cloud
Down Judge
A U.S. Navy veteran and longtime educator, Cheeley’s 39-year officiating career with the MSHSL has left an indelible mark. His contributions span football, baseball, softball and basketball, alongside his leadership roles as a teacher, activities director and coach. A member of the Minnesota State High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame, Cheeley has been recognized with numerous accolades for his service to sports and education. His extensive experience and unwavering commitment to student-athletes reflect his dedication to objectivity and the enduring values of sportsmanship.
Dennis Harris, Edina
Umpire
Harris began his officiating journey in 2000 after coaching his four sons in youth athletics. He expanded his expertise to officiate football, softball, basketball and volleyball, earning assignments in multiple postseason games, including state championships. His career highlights include officiating the 2021 MSHSL AAAA Softball Championship as a crew chief and the AAAAAA Football Championship later that year. Harris lives by the wisdom shared by his mentors, emphasizing humility, integrity and the importance of maintaining the spirit of the game. Now focused on recruiting and mentoring new officials, Harris embodies honesty and objectivity by striving to leave the officiating community better for future generations.
MJ Wagenson, Pine Island
Line Judge
After starting her officiating career in 1986 with basketball and softball, Wagenson later added football and volleyball to her repertoire. She has officiated high school football postseason games, including state quarterfinals, semifinals and a championship. Wagenson broke barriers as the first woman to officiate a Boys Basketball State Tournament in Minnesota and a championship game in football. She continues to serve as a leader within her officiating associations as a clinician and regional coordinator. Her unwavering commitment to advancing the craft and mentoring others reflects her dedication to fairness and inclusivity, inspiring others to pursue officiating with integrity and passion.
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 to 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, in partnership with their state 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)
