Dennis Barela embarked on his officiating journey in New Mexico High School Football and Basketball in 2015. His career then took him to the LoneStar Conference and the RMAC, where he began as a Line Judge in 2019. Presently, Dennis continues his role as Line Judge in the RMAC.

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His dedication and expertise led to assignments in the NCAA DII post-season RMAC crews as the Line Judge in 2022 and 2023, showcasing his proficiency in officiating at the collegiate level.

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Beyond officiating, Dennis serves as the New Mexico Central Region High School Football Coordinator, playing a pivotal role in training officials through the non-profit organization Behind The Flag in New Mexico.

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Academically, Dennis holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. Prior to his officiating career, he dedicated 20 years to serving the Albuquerque Police Department before transitioning to his current role as a Technical Surveillance Countermeasures Technician with the Department of Energy / National Nuclear Security Administration.

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Family plays a significant role in Dennis's life. He is married with two adult children, a 7-year-old son, and a granddaughter, with another grandchild on the way this fall.

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During the off-season, Dennis indulges in his passion for fishing, often found casting lines along the Russian River on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska.