Over the years, we have tried several different programs to maintain interest and yet, be a learning experience. I'll tell you what has been the most successful for the past several years in our local association meetings.
We allow our supervisors 10-15 minutes (maximum) to discuss whatever subject they need to address. After that, we have organized discussions with different officials (of the association) leading the way. Their subject has already been selected days before, and they are expected to have 'full' knowledge of the subject material.
These 'speakers' will have 5-8 minutes to explain rules, mechanics, points of emphasis, or officiating philosophy. Then, they'll answer questions from the group.
Our members tend to pay closer attention to their 'peers'. It seems they listen closer to make sure the speaker doesn't say anything wrong. The speaker, on the other hand, tends to prepare themselves better knowing the challenge that is ahead of them.
We select younger officials along with the older ones. Each meeting we'll have all geographic areas represented by a 'speaker'. The supervisors oversees the discussion and will throw-out any unwarranted or bizarre questions.
Also, each mmeting we'll spend a few minutes on the floor covering mechanics. Again, utilizing our officials. The key element, and it's easier said than done, is ORGANIZATION. Keep the meeting moving and discuss several subjects at each meeting.
Since we incorporated this procedure, we have had better attendance and our discussions have been thought-provoking. The feedback has been all positive and I think we have officials that actually look forward to the meetings. It wasn't that long ago when most of our officials considered the meetings an inconvenience.
One other key element, keep ALL discussions about mechanics and rule interpretations on the high school level. While we have several people working at all levels of NCAA, we are a High School association. Not that we discourage the college guys/gals, we fully endorse them. But, they don't discuss H.S. at their college meetings! But remember, alot of the basic philosophical ideas are identical whether its jr. pro, jr. high, high school, or college.
Best of luck.........
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