Desiree Abrams Talks Breaking Barriers as a Black Woman Officiating Within the NFL
Trailblazing NFL official Desiree “Des” Abrams joins BoomBox Weekly to discuss her journey from athlete to pioneering referee, breaking barriers in football, and leading the next generation of women in sports Watch the episode here!
Desiree Abrams Talks Breaking Barriers as a Black Woman Officiating Within the NFL
By: Omar Cook
Los Angeles, CA — BoomBox Weekly Podcast is proud to present an all-new episode featuring Desiree “Des” Abrams, a trailblazing football official and global leader who is breaking barriers and redefining the future of the game. As one of the most accomplished Black women in football officiating, Abrams joins the show to share her journey, impact, and continued mission to open doors for the next generation.
On this episode of BoomBox Weekly, listeners are taken inside Abrams’ powerful evolution—from a collegiate athlete to a pioneering force in football officiating at the highest levels of the sport.
After retiring from playing professionally, Abrams remained committed to the game she loved, transitioning into officiating through the NFL Officiating Academy. What began as a passion quickly turned into a historic career, as she went on to officiate over 8,000 flag football games while rising through the ranks across high school, collegiate, and professional levels. Today, she serves as an NFL Replay Assistant, collegiate official, and Head of Officiating for the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC).
Abrams’ résumé is nothing short of groundbreaking. She has officiated some of the sport’s biggest stages, including the NFL Pro Bowl, NFL Flag Championships, NAIA Women’s Collegiate Championships, and multiple International Federation of American Football (IFAF) World Championships as a Crew Chief. In 2023, she made history as part of the first all-African American NFL officiating crew and one of the first crews to feature three Black women—marking a major milestone for representation in the league.
Beyond the field, Abrams is a visionary leader and advocate for the growth of women in football. She is the Founder of the National Women’s Football Officials Association (NWFOA), an organization dedicated to elevating standards and creating opportunities for women in officiating. She also plays a key role in shaping the future of the sport as Chair of USA Football’s Flag Football Competition Committee and a member of the IFAF Rules Committee. Most recently, she has been named a Global Flag Football Ambassador for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, further cementing her influence on the international stage.
In the podcast episode, host Omar Cook dives into Abrams’ journey, the discipline behind officiating at an elite level, and the importance of leadership, representation, and legacy. She shares insight into navigating a male-dominated industry, the responsibility of setting the standard, and how she continues to inspire and uplift future generations of officials.
This episode is a must-listen for fans of sports, leadership, and anyone inspired by stories of perseverance, excellence, and breaking barriers.
Watch the full episode on YouTube and listen on all major platforms!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Nic Harris Talks His Versatile Journey from NFL to Mentorship and Entertainment
Former NFL player Nic Harris discusses his versatile journey from NFL success to mentoring youth and making strides in the world of entertainment in this week’s episode of BoomBox Weekly!
Nic Harris Talks His Versatile Journey from NFL to Mentorship and Entertainment
By: Adonis Armstrong
Nic Harris, Alexandria, Louisiana's own, made a name for himself as a versatile American football player. His journey began in college, where he played football for the University of Oklahoma. During his college career, he showcased his adaptability by excelling in both safety and linebacker positions. In 2009, Nic Harris took the next step in his football career when he was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the fifth round of the NFL Draft as the 147th overall pick. His transition from college safety to NFL linebacker demonstrated his willingness to take on different roles. Throughout his NFL career, he also had stints with the Carolina Panthers and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Post-NFL, Harris explored various business ventures and contributed to sports management and player development. His journey exemplifies his adaptability and commitment to the game of football.
In 2009, Nic started his first camp, coinciding with his NFL draft year, driven by a desire to make a positive impact and be the role model I needed as a kid. After a hiatus due to injuries, he decided to revive the camp because gun violence was on the rise in my hometown, Alexandria, Louisiana, and local kids lacked constructive activities. Without sponsors, just personal texts to friends for donations. This past summer, he hosted 118 kids who were eager to participate. “We were committed to continuing this effort as long as we can make a difference in their lives, even if it means coming out of my own pocket,” Nic mentioned on BoomBox Weekly.
Nic stars in movies and TV shows such as the reboot of 'White Men Can't Jump,' 'All American,' and contributes to Madden, where he has been involved in enhancing gameplay and now represents an animated character in the game. Additionally, Nic serves as a West Coast liaison for the NFL. He has worked with renowned actors like Will Smith in 'Focus' and played a role in Dwayne Johnson's hit show 'Ballers.' Currently, he is actively developing a new show that aims to shed light on the less commonly seen aspects of the sports world, showcasing the challenges faced by those striving to make it.
Listen to the exclusive interview on this week’s episode hosted by Gentel Sharrie and Adonis Armstrong.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Retired NFL Player Levon Kirkland Discusses His Public Speaking, Leadership, & More
Levon Kirkland, a retired NFL linebacker, discusses his career achievements and accolades, continues to impact football through coaching and leadership roles, and engages with audiences through his podcasts and motivational speaking platform in this week’s episode of BoomBox Weekly!
Retired NFL Player Levon Kirkland Discusses His Public Speaking, Leadership, & More
By: Adonis Armstrong
Levon Kirkland, a retired NFL linebacker, excelled at Clemson University, earning All-ACC and All-American honors. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1992, he played nine seasons there, followed by stints with the Seattle Seahawks and Philadelphia Eagles. Over his 11-year career, Kirkland achieved two Pro Bowl selections, two First-Team All-Pro honors, and a spot on the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1990s. He's celebrated as one of the NFL's great linebackers.
Kirkland's impact extends beyond football. After retiring from the NFL, he excelled in coaching, holding roles with the Arizona Cardinals and Florida A&M University. He also worked at Clemson University and served as head coach at Shannon Forest High School. Kirkland's passion led him to assist the Arizona Cardinals.
Presently, Kirkland serves as the Vice President of Communication Outreach for the South Carolina Football Hall of Fame and remains engaged in several football-related initiatives. He also hosts two podcasts, namely "Bleav in Clemson Football" and "Beyond the Blitz with Levon Kirkland," through which he imparts his wisdom and insights about the game. Moreover, Kirkland initiated his motivational speaking platform in 2000 and remains a highly regarded and beloved speaker, particularly among young audiences. "People will meet their needs, and if we keep ignoring people close by, they will meet their needs through us," Levon mentioned on BoomBox Weekly.
Listen to the exclusive interview on this week’s episode hosted by Adonis Armstrong.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: