Teamwork

Ex-NFL referee speaks Saturday in Smith River

Teamwork transforms groups of people into something greater than the sum of their parts.

That’s the core message that former pro football referee Jim Tunney will bring to the “Pre-Bowl Tailgate Party” Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at Lucky 7 Casino’s Tolowa Events Center in Smith River.

Tunney’s visit is a fundraiser for the Wild Rivers Coast Foundation. Tickets cost $50 and can be obtained by calling (707) 465-1238 or (541) 412-6277.

Now a well-traveled speaker who lives in Pebble Beach, Calif., Tunner joined the NFL as an official in 1960. In 1967 he was promoted to referee, a position he held until 1991, “coaching” officiating crews (which are kept intact during the regular season) for 24 years.

He officiated at a record 29 post-season games, including three Super Bowls (VI, XI and XII).

Tunney is a past president of the National Speakers Association and “has worked with major corporations and associations all over the world to build teams, set effective goals and increase productivity,” according to his website, jimtunney.com/blog.