Photo Provided Bruce Dunn, left, was named the 2024-25 National Federation of State High School Association’s Officials Association West Virginia Football Official of the Year. He was presented with a plaque during the West Virginia Class A state championship game last weekend at UC Laidley Field in Charleston. He is pictured with his daughter, Lindsay.

CHARLESTON — On the urging of a friend, Bruce Dunn started officiating football games three decades ago.

Last Friday night during a break in the action of the West Virginia Class A state championship game between Wheeling Central and Clay-Battelle, the Shadyside native was presented with one of the highest awards an official can receive as he was named the 2024-25 National Federation of State High School Officials Association West Virginia Football Official of the Year.

“It means a lot to be recognized as one of the top guys in the state,” Dunn said. “It gives you a lot of respect.

“It surprised me. I had no idea I was even nominated for it.”

Dunn said he was informed about the award in November by email.

“They wanted me to schedule a game to attend during the championship weekend, so I picked Friday night because that is what I’m accustomed to,” he said.

“I just loved high school football and a buddy of mine talked me into it,” he said of his officiating start. “It’s been a passion ever since.”

That passion has lasted three decades. He has also served 16 years as a softball umpire.

“I got out while my daughter was playing,” he remarked. His daughter, Lindsay, was the catcher for the 2025 Shadyside Ohio Division IV state champions.

As a football official, Dunn is generally the umpire, which can be dangerous at times.

“I’m located behind the defensive line alongside the linebackers,” he noted. “There are several films of me being knocked over.”

When asked if there was any certain individual he would like to thank, the 1988 Bellaire grad, replied, “Too many people to start thanking without leaving someone out. There are so many guys out there that helped me in one way or another through the years from just being on the field with some legends to doing a lot of film study. Officials that are really good spend a lot of time watching films and talking to each other.”