ACC supervisor of football officials Al Riveron steps down

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Al Riveron has resigned as the ACC’s supervisor of football officials, the conference announced Wednesday, leaving a significant staff void less than two months before the season.

Riveron, 66, served in officiating or administrative roles for more than 30 years, the last 3½ with the ACC. Last season, the league and ESPN implemented unprecedented replay transparency, allowing the network to air replay deliberations in real time during select games.

The innovation played to rave reviews and prompted others to follow the ACC’s lead. Conference executives plan to broaden the model this season and are conducting a national search for Riveron’s successor.

“Al has had a remarkable impact on ACC football through his leadership and unwavering commitment to officiating excellence,” Commissioner Jim Phillips said in the league’s news release. “His transparency and collaborative approach have elevated our program, and we are incredibly grateful for all he has done for the ACC and college football.”

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Hired in 2004 as the NFL’s first Hispanic official, Riveron worked as a college referee in the Big East and Conference USA from 1990-2004. After retiring from the field, he served as the NFL’s senior vice president of officiating from 2017-20.

“It has been an honor to serve as the ACC’s supervisor of football officials, and I am appreciative of the support from Commissioner Phillips and the entire league,” Riveron said in the release. “Officiating is built on integrity, preparation and teamwork, and I have been fortunate to work alongside some of the most dedicated professionals in the game.”

David Teel, david.teel@virginiamedia.com

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