The NFL had it’s first ever playoff game with a female official this year, with the first regular game back in 2015. Both by Sarah Thomas, who also was the first female to officiate a college football game as well. The XFL seems to be following the lead as well. According to Melissa Jacobs, Dean Blandino has stated that the XFL is making a concerted effort to hire qualified female and minority officials.

Somewhat related: @DeanBlandino mentioned on my pod last week that the XFL will make a concerted effort to hire qualified female and minority officials. — Melissa Jacobs (@thefootballgirl) July 3, 2019

The XFL has a lot of hurdles ahead of itself before kickoff on Feb 8, 2020; but it’s nice to see them continue to make smart decisions like this. One decision at a time, this league is showing itself to be way more professional than the first go around, and we like the changes we’re seeing.