About 5th Quarter Officiating
Wally Hough
Executive Director + Founder
Wally, a Tampa, FL native, made a lasting impact on the football field at Plant High School, where he was honored with induction into the Plant High School Hall of Fame in 2005. After high school, he continued his athletic journey as a Gator at The University of Florida, earning four varsity letters from 1977 to 1980. One of Wally’s proudest achievements is donning a different jersey. His officiating career began in 1989 with the Central Florida Officials Association (CFOA), where he served for three years before joining the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 1992.
During his distinguished tenure with the SEC, Wally officiated 17 bowl games, including the Rose Bowl and the Alamo Bowl, as well as one SEC Championship game. Due to the rule prohibiting officials from officiating their alma mater’s games, he often reflects on how many more championship opportunities he might have had – Go Gators! His career is marked by cherished memories—ranging from bowl games shared with his wife, Renee and family, to enduring friendships formed across decades and state lines with crews and their families. Since retiring from the SEC in 2019, Wally has continued his engagement with The University of Florida as an officials’ liaison. In this role, he assigns officiating crews and coordinates practices while overseeing game-day operations in The Swamp. Inspired by his experiences, Wally founded The 5th Quarter to support the next generation of athletes as they transition beyond the game. Wally brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for sports that inspires those around him. His leadership, commitment to excellence, and dedication to developing the next generation of athletes and officials set him apart as a leader in the field.
Will Adkins
Director of Recruiting
A dedicated sports enthusiast and experienced coach, Will has built a robust career that bridges athletics and leadership. As a two-sport athlete in high school, excelling in both football and wrestling, Will developed a deep passion for competition and teamwork that laid the foundation for a successful athletic career. At the collegiate level, Will was a four-year starter in football at Bacone College, competing at the NAIA level. This experience not only honed his skills on the field but also instilled a strong understanding of the dynamics of college athletics.
Transitioning from player to coach, Will served as the Offensive Line Coach at Bacone College for two years, followed by a role at Gainesville High School in Gainesville, FL. In these positions, Will not only developed athletes’ skills but also nurtured their personal growth, emphasizing the importance of discipline, resilience, and teamwork. Currently, Will is the Operations Director at Hahn Appliance Warehouse, where leadership and operational efficiency are key. This role has further refined his management skills, enabling a strategic approach to recruiting and developing talent. With a profound passion for college football, Will is eager to leverage his athletic background and coaching experience to recruit former athletes for clinics. He believes that the discipline and camaraderie cultivated through sports can greatly benefit participants, and is committed to fostering an environment where athletes can thrive both on and off the field.
Lydia Hough
Director of Operations
Lydia’s journey in sports began on the softball field and has evolved into a passionate career dedicated to shaping the future of youth athletics. After four years of collegiate softball and earning her Bachelor’s in Sport Business Management, she transitioned from player to mentor, currently serving as a high school head softball coach in Florida. This role allows her to inspire and nurture young athletes, a commitment she values deeply. In 2020, Lydia earned her Master’s in Sport and Entertainment Management, solidifying her resolve to champion the importance of youth sports in fostering personal development and teamwork among young players. As the Director of Operations for 5th Quarter, she ensures that every aspect of the organization runs smoothly and efficiently, much like a well-oiled machine. Fun Fact: Lydia has visited 17 out of the 30 MLB parks to cheer on THE New York Yankees!