Bill Vinovich ethnicity is often speculated to have roots in Eastern Europe, given his surname, “Vinovich.”
Bill Vinovich III, born on December 1st, 1960, is a seasoned American football and college basketball official who has fulfilled the role of an NFL referee for 15 seasons.
During his college years, Vinovich was engaged in football, and following his graduation in 1983, he made the transition to officiating games.
Vinovich obtained his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on accounting from the University of San Diego.
Initially, he began his career in NFL as a side judge in 2001 before earning a promotion to referee at the outset of the 2004 NFL season.
Apart from his duties as a football official, Vinovich also dedicated himself to officiating college basketball.
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Bill Vinovich Ethnicity: NFL Referee Origin, Race & Parents Background
Bill III Vinovich was born to Billy Vinovich Jr. and Linda Vinovich in Beaver Country, Pennsylvania.
Bill Vinovich ethnicity remains somewhat ambiguous, but his surname “Vinovich” originates from Eastern Europe, specifically regions like Croatia or Serbia. Given this, it’s probable that Bill Vinovich has Croatian-American ancestry.
His father, Billy Vinovich, and grandfather, William “Butch” Vinovich, were both sports officials, officiating football, basketball, volleyball, and softball.
His grandfather and father were also honored with a place in the Midlands Sports Hall of Fame. Now, Bill Vinovich carries forward this esteemed family legacy.
He made his official debut in the NFL as a side judge in 2001, eventually earning a promotion to referee during the 2004 NFL season.
He remained with the NFL until the 2007 season, but due to his deteriorating heart condition, he retired from active field duty.
After clearance from his doctors indicating good health, he made his return to the NFL on October 14, 2012, as a substitute official. This marked his first game since 2006.
With improved health, he ascended to referee Super Bowl XLIX on February 1, 2015, and Super Bowl LIV in February 2020. Before these assignments, he served as an alternate referee for Super Bowl XLVII.
Following controversy surrounding an alleged missed call during the 2018 NFC Championship Game, there were calls for him to be dismissed from the NFL, although no action was ultimately taken.
Bill Vinovich Married Life And Net Worth
Bill Vinovich is wedded to Jeanette Vinovich, and their marital journey spans over three decades.
In addition to his role as a sports official, Bill Vinovich is also a certified public accountant. Meanwhile his wife, Jeanette, is a home maker.
They are the parents of two children, William Vinovich IV and Shawna Vinovich. Their daughter, Shawna, has pursued a career in law, while their son, William, has chosen to become a financial analyst.
Bill Vinovich has dedicated two decades to the NFL. His earnings reflect his success, with approximately $183,070 garnered from the 2015 season alone.
The typical annual salary for an NFL official is estimated to be around $205,000. Additionally, he officiated the Super Bowl LVIII, an event speculated to have garnered the official a big pay check of $50,000.
Having devoted his life to officiating, he has reportedly amassed a net worth ranging from $1 million to $5 million as of 2024.
Bill Vinovich remains dedicated to carrying on his grandfather’s legacy, consistently adding to his accolades as a referee.
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