Art McNally, American football executive, Died at 97

 Arthur Ignatius McNally: A Football Legacy Remembered

Arthur Ignatius McNally (July 1, 1925 – January 1, 2023) was an esteemed American football executive who profoundly influenced the sport. His significant role as the director of officiating for the National Football League (NFL) from 1968 to 1991 was pivotal. McNally's exceptional contributions to sports officiating earned him the honor of induction into the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022, a historic accolade making him the first NFL game official to receive this distinction.

Early Life and Education

Born in the lively city of Philadelphia on July 1, 1925, Arthur McNally's educational journey commenced with his graduation from Roman Catholic High School in 1943. Following his high school years, he dedicated his service to the Marines during World War II, showcasing his patriotism. After military service, McNally pursued higher education and graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia.

Before delving into an illustrious career in sports officiating, McNally devoted his time as a teacher and coach within the Philadelphia school district, notably at Central High School. His passion for sports and his commitment to education were foundational to his future accomplishments.

A Journey in Officiating

Arthur McNally's journey in the realm of officiating commenced when he assumed the roles of field judge and referee in the NFL. This phase spanned from 1959 to 1967, during which he presided over numerous football games, alongside baseball and basketball matches. Impressively, he also officiated in the National Basketball Association (NBA), showcasing his versatility as a sports official.

NFL Director of Officiating

In 1968, McNally achieved a pivotal milestone in his career by being appointed as the NFL's director of officiating. In this influential role, he led a department overseeing 112 game officials with a team of five dedicated individuals. McNally's responsibilities encompassed scouting, screening, hiring, and grading the seven-man officiating crews crucial to each NFL game.

A pioneering contribution by McNally was his innovative use of game footage for the meticulous evaluation of game officials, significantly enhancing the quality of officiating in the NFL.

McNally's exemplary tenure as the director of officiating persisted until the conclusion of the 1990 season. Upon retiring from this esteemed position, he assumed the role of Supervisor of Officials for the World League of American Football in December 1991, a role he held for five years. His dedication to sports officiating continued as he remained a league consultant and game observer in the years that followed.

In 1996, McNally reengaged with the NFL, serving as an assistant supervisor of officials until 2008. Later, he transitioned into an observer role for eight seasons, where his expertise continued to benefit the league. McNally officially retired after the 2015 season.

Personal Life and Legacy

Arthur McNally was married twice during his lifetime. His first wife, Rita, was his partner until her passing in 1981. In 1986, he married his second wife, Sharon, and together, they raised four children: Zach, Jonah, Brayden, and Jake.

Remarkably, McNally held the distinction of being the oldest living member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame following the passing of Charley Trippi in October 2022, underscoring his enduring legacy in the sport.

On January 1, 2023, Arthur Ignatius McNally peacefully passed away at the age of 97 in a hospice facility located in Yardley, Pennsylvania. His remarkable contributions to the world of sports officiating continue to be celebrated, leaving an indomitable mark on the NFL and the broader sports community.