GREENSBORO, N.C. – One of the most beloved figures in college football officiating, Doug Rhoads, passed away overnight after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Rhoads was 71.
“The entire Atlantic Coast Conference is deeply saddened by the passing of Doug Rhoads,” said ACC Commissioner John Swofford. “Doug loved the ACC and was a great friend to me and so many others. His positive and upbeat demeanor, and his passion for what he did was contagious and an inspiration to many. We will all keep Denise and their entire family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Rhoads began officiating in the ACC in 1977 and spent 29 years on the field as a back judge working nearly 275 games, including 10 bowl games.