Las Vegas (KSNV) — There are only 121 officials in the national football league, and one of them built his career right here in Las Vegas. After spending more than two decades on NFL sidelines, including working Super Bowl 58 right here at Allegiant Stadium Mike Perlman is back home, trading the bright lights of Sunday football for the Friday night lights of local high school games.
News 3’s Alexa Belcastro caught up with him as he reflected back on his career, the pride of officiating four Super Bowls, including Super Bowl 58 here in Las Vegas, and he is now giving back to the next generation of officials.
Perlman started his journey as a gym teacher at Basic High School, before climbing the ranks through college football and eventually reaching the NFL. Over the years, he’s been part of some of the league’s biggest moments, feeling both the pride and pressure that come with making calls on the biggest stage.
Now, he’s paying it forward, mentoring the next generation of officials here in Southern Nevada. For him, it’s about more than the game.
“If I can help these young refs understand what it takes, not just the rules, but the professionalism and love for the game, then it’s all worth it,” said Perlman.