GLENDALE, Ariz., Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Mike Carey, an 18-year veteran NFL game official, was selected to be the referee for Super Bowl XLII in Glendale, Ariz., on Sunday.

The game between the New York Giants and New England Patriots will be Carey's first Super Bowl as referee. He was an alternate for Super Bowl XXXVI and has worked 14 playoff games, including two conference championships, in his career.

Carey was the referee when the Patriots beat the Giants, 38-35, in the regular-season finale.

Also on the officiating crew will be umpire Tony Michalek, head linesman Gary Slaughter, line judge Carl Johnson, field judge Boris Cheek, side judge Larry Rose and back judge Scott Helverson. The crew has 71 combined years of NFL officiating experience and 43 combined post-season game assignments.

Ken Baker is the replay assistant.

The National Football League selects its Super Bowl officials through an evaluation system. The highest-rated officials at each position, if they have five years NFL experience and previous playoff assignments, earn the chance to work the Super Bowl.