Bio
Our story:the story behind Refman's Library
Refman’s Library is built on decades of on-the-mat experience and a deep commitment to the sport of wrestling
Meet Frederick Feeney, the voice and expertise behind this resource
A veteran of the US Navy who served in Vietnam (1970-71), Fred brought discipline and dedication to a remarkable 36-year career as a wrestling official (and 20 years as a football official before retirement). His journey took him from local events to the national stage, officiating at 20 Sectionals, 29 Districts, 12 Ohio State Tournaments, 13 NCAA Wrestling Championships, and 26 other National Tournaments. Achieving the highest ranks, he also retired as a USA Wrestling Category 1 and as a FILA official with international experience.
Recognition followed his dedication, with honors including multiple OHSAA Meritorious Service awards, the CDWOA Referee of the Year award, and prestigious inductions into the OWOA Wrestling Official Hall of Fame (2019) and prestigious, National Wrestling Hall of Fame Induction (2023).
He founded the MSWOA College Referee Association, which when he turned it over to others to run years later, was the largest Collegiate Referee Association in the USA.
But officiating was only part of the story. For over 25 years, Fred has been passionate about teaching. His “Are You A Duck?” clinics, designed to sharpen officiating skills and understanding, have been presented in 15 states. He taught his famous “ARE YOU A DUCK” Officials classes for over 20 some years, Wrestling and Football. He has also shared his expertise as a State Tournament Evaluator in four different states, helping to maintain high standards in officiating.
With a background from Ohio State University and Northwest Missouri State University, and a strong belief in giving back, he also serves on the Board of Directors for The Ethan Foundation for Autism and the committee for the “Wrestle Against Autism” tournament.
Now, through Refman’s Library, Fred now channels decades of experience into Refman’s Library to help educate and develop the next generation of Wrestling Officials, coaches, fans and enthusiasts.
Explore the resources within Refman’s Library to benefit from this extensive experience.
This May, Frederick Feeney conducted a clinic for our Referees Association in Western New York. I initially reached out to Frederick after reading several insightful articles he had posted on the Wrestling Referees Only Facebook page. From our first interaction, Frederick was enthusiastic, professional, and a pleasure to work with. Coordinating his visit was seamless, and his time with us could not have gone more smoothly. Frederick’s clinic, titled "Being a Duck: The Importance of GREAT Mechanics," drew from his decades of experience as a referee, evaluator, and mentor. His presentation was designed to help officials of all experience levels enhance their skills by focusing on fundamental techniques that are essential to effective officiating. Using a blend of storytelling, humor, and real-life examples, Frederick inspired attendees to reflect on and improve their officiating approach. His emphasis on proper mechanics, paired with clear and practical demonstrations, made his teachings easy to understand and apply. Frederick encouraged active participation, responding to questions with immediate examples and real-time demonstrations, providing valuable context for in-match situations. Everyone in attendance left the clinic with new insights and renewed confidence in their abilities. Frederick’s passion for officiating is contagious, and his impact on our group was significant. If you’re looking for a clinician who brings experience, clarity, and inspiration, Frederick Feeney is an outstanding choice.
Matt Moscato Secretary, Niagara Frontier Wrestling Officials Association (NFWOA)