For 28 years Robert F. Sullivan has been a member of the Western Connecticut Football Officials Association, and has distinguished himself on the field and in leadership roles for the organization. But it is on the field that he has gained the respect of his fellow officials. Known for a cool demeanor and ability to communicate not only to coaches, but players has made him one of the most recognizable members of the WCFOA. But, that shouldn’t be surprising as in his professional life Sullivan is an educator and longtime coach. Over his career, Sullivan has worked hundreds of games in the Naugatuck Valley from Pop Warner and other youth football through sub-varsity and varsity games. Whenever he is called upon to don the stripes, he has done so with pride and distinction. He has used his experience to help newer officials learn the craft tutoring them on the “do’s and don’ts” of officiating. His expertise was utilized as he was the presenter at many regular meetings of the association. He is considered a mentor and friend by many in the organization. His work on the field has earned him six CIAC post-season contests over his career, and also earned him spots as a member of the Board of Directors of the WCFOA as well as stints as its Vice-President and President. Professionally, Sullivan was a Hillside Middle School science teacher before taking the position of Principal at Hop Brook Elementary School in 1975. He stayed in that position for more than 30 years before his retirement. Following his retirement he worked as a mentor in the Sacred Heart University Student-Teacher Program. He was a longtime coach of the Naugatuck High School Greyhounds basketball team, and was recognized for his sportsmanship by New Haven IAABO Board 10 as its Coach of the Year. He was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame in 1998. In his spare time, he wrote an article for Referee Magazine, “The Five T’s of Overtime.” Community Service has been a big part of his life and career. He was named the 1966 Elks Club Young Man of the Year, received the Distinguished Service Award from the Naugatuck Jaycees, and received the Gold Medal for Distinguished Service from the Naugatuck Exchange Club. Throughout his career, Robert Sullivan has exemplified the attributes, involvement and willingness to “give back” that make him a winner of the CFOA Hall of Fame honor.