Thomas Cross began his officiating career in 1942, stepping onto the court for a high school basketball game between Rainier and Yelm High Schools. At the time, his game fee was a mere $3, but his impact on the sport would far exceed any monetary value. Over the next six decades, Cross became a respected official in high school basketball, baseball, and football, setting a standard for professionalism and fairness.

Cross played a pivotal role in establishing the Washington Officials Association and is widely regarded as the father of the WOA. His talents extended to the collegiate level, where he officiated Pac-10 football for 27 years and basketball for 16 years, including assignments at the prestigious 1963 and 1973 Rose Bowl games. In 1976, he was named a National Football League Officials’ Observer and Scout, cementing his legacy as one of the state’s and nation’s premier officials.

Through his leadership and dedication, Thomas Cross not only elevated officiating standards in Washington but also mentored generations of officials who followed in his footsteps.