Division one college football referee, one of three BEF Hall of Fame inductees

BEATRICE – He’s the man wearing the white hat….and he’s one of college football’s top referees. He’s also a 1989 graduate of Beatrice High School.

Kevin Mar was one of three new inductees into the Beatrice Educational Foundation Hall of Fame on Sunday. Mar, who referees Big 12 Conference football games, has reffed 13 bowl games and several conference championships. He was nominated by his friend, Ben Essam…a Beatrice Middle School Teacher.

Mar still refs high school basketball games at Beatrice in his off-season. He called it a great honor to be inducted, calling it a privilege and a moment of reflection.

No matter what stadium he’s at, Mars says he always carries his ties to Beatrice with him. He thanked his wife Julie for carrying the weight for their family when he’s on the road. He also thanked his brother Ken….who helped him start in sports…and his parents John and Kathy Mar for showing him what hard work looks like.

Also inducted into the Beatrice Educational Foundation’s Hall of Fame is the late Gary Nickels…..a 1958 BHS graduate who became an art teacher at Beatrice, later an instructor for Grand Island Public Schools and who also was a crop insurance adjuster. Maureen Nickels accepted the award.

Dr. Mark Vrtiska…a 1982 Beatrice High graduate is also a new member of the Hall. He is a Professor at the University of Nebraska and a Wildlife Management Specialists with the School of Natural Resources.