Marlborough, Mass.- The NEWMAC is joining the NCAA in celebrating Officials Appreciation Week throughout the 2025-2026 academic year. This marks the fourth year of the Division III Commissioners Association (DIIICA) initiative to highlight and thank conference officials across all sports.
Over the course of this week, the NEWMAC will spotlight several of its long-time fall officials. Today, we recognize football official Sean Burke.
Institution Attended: Fitchburg State University
How long have you been officiating? 11 years
Where/how did you get your start as an official? Intramurals at Fitchburg State, while training to referee high school basketball.
Why did you decide to become an official? I needed a way to be a part of the sports I loved, even though my playing days were done. Being an official allows me not only to be a part of the sport again, but I am also involved in the action on every play.
What do you enjoy about being an official in the NEWMAC? The NEWMAC has some of the best competition in the country for all Division III sports and has some of the most respected institutions.
What would you tell someone who is considering officiating? There is no better way to be involved in the sport you love more than officiating. You will also meet some incredible people and make lifelong friendships.
What other work do you do outside of officiating? I am currently a 6th-grade special education teacher.
About the NEWMAC
The NEWMAC is an association of 12 selective academic institutions: Babson College, Clark University, U.S Coast Guard Academy, Emerson College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Mount Holyoke College, Salve Regina University, Smith College, Springfield College, Wellesley College, Wheaton College, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute, that are committed to providing high quality competitive athletic opportunities for student-athletes within an educational and respectful environment that embodies the NCAA Division III Philosophy. The conference also partners with eight Associate Members: Brandeis University (Women's Lacrosse, 2026-2027), New York University (Men's Volleyball, 2026-2027), Norwich University (Football), Simmons College (Rowing), SUNY Maritime College (Football), SUNY New Paltz (Men's Volleyball, 2026-2027), U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (Football), and Vassar College (Men's Volleyball, 2026-2027), while sponsoring 20 sports.