[1] An opposing faction, headed by referee Tommy Bell also emerged at this meeting, who made the argument that increases in game fees could be won without establishment of a union.
[1] After protracted discussion and debate, a vote was taken and by a count of 34 to 17 the decision was made to establish a collective bargaining unit, financed by dues payments of $50 per member per year.
[1] A five-member negotiating committee was named to go to New York to meet with league commissioner Pete Rozelle, the representative of team owners.
[1] Early in March 1972 the organization was formally incorporated following a meeting in St. Louis as the "Professional Football Referees Corporation.
[5] Over further objection by a minority faction organized by Tommy Bell, a campaign was launched for the establishment of pensions for retired officials.