The Buffalo Bills, together with the National Football League, the National Federation of State High School Associations, and the New York State Association of Certified Football Officials, have recognized five officials from the Watertown Chapter as the “Crew of the Month” for September 2025. The honor highlights their efforts to improve the experience for high school football players in their region.
The selected crew members—Don Tremont, Robert VanCoughnett, Tom Steiner, Dan Salmon, and Brian Finn—bring a combined 164 years of officiating experience. Each official has worked every position at the varsity level and has served on executive boards for over a century collectively. Their leadership is credited with helping to develop other officials and maintain professionalism within their chapter.
Don Tremont has officiated high school football for 41 years in Watertown. He has refereed state semifinal and title games, currently serves as Past President on his chapter’s Executive Board, and has received both state and local awards for his contributions. Outside football, he has coached youth hockey teams to state-level success and served as Coaching Program Director for USA Hockey Northern Zone in New York.
Robert VanCoughnett from Adams Center brings 25 years of officiating experience. He is in his tenth year as President of the Watertown Chapter and previously led NYSACFO as its president in 2021. VanCoughnett also held leadership roles in youth sports leagues such as Pop Warner football and Little League softball.
Thomas Steiner of Carthage has spent 17 years officiating high school football along with several other sports at different levels. He has been recognized twice with the Dick McCabe Award and was honored with a state merit award in 2024. Steiner also served in the United States Navy for 23 years before retiring.
Don Salmon from Lowville holds 45 years of officiating experience including working state title games. He currently serves as Mayor of Lowville and holds leadership positions within Little League organizations across New York.
Brian Finn has dedicated 36 years to serving the Watertown Chapter as an official. His career includes assignments at NCAA Division III games and multiple playoff contests. He was elected chapter Assignor in 2000—a role he continues to hold—and recently retired as Principal of Lowville Academy High School.
According to program details found on the NFL’s Play Football website, eighteen NFL teams participate in this initiative each month during high school football season by working with state associations like NYSACFO to recognize outstanding officials statewide.
Those interested in becoming a certified official can find more information or sign up through the NYSACFO website.
