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I'm 29 and started officiating NFHS games at 21. I started in MD/DC, did 5 years, and then moved to Nevada.
My perception is that when coaches see a new face, they form an opinion based on appearance.
If the official looks young, they think that he is inexperienced. If the official looks old or overweight, they think he is slow and will be out of position.
Basically, you just have to deal with these first impressions.
After a few years in MD/DC most of the coaches learned to accept me and weren't worried about my youth.
After moving to Nevada, I had to start over with the coach/official relationships. Most coaches thought I was a rookie. For many of them, it only took a couple of calls and a quarter or two of basketball before they accepted me. For some coaches, it took a warning, and for a select few it took a T.
I agree with those who wrote that a lot has to do with how you carry yourself and how you interact with the coach, but mostly it just takes some time and experience working games for that coach. He needs to see you and learn a bit about you before the comfort zone sets in.
Lastly, I think this was a very interesting question, but I have had a harder time because of my age with other officials, not with the coaches.
I think some of it is jealousy. Many of the local veterans had the attitude that I shouldn't be assigned to certain games because I didn't have enough experience. I found one particular case amusing when a 10-year year guy, learned that I had 8 years, just this past season! He kept going around saying that I was a 3rd year official. I guess it is similar with fellow officials until they see you work a few games and get to know you, their early perception based on appearance will be dominant.
Bottom line:
If you work hard and are good, you'll get your shot. Some sooner than others. Don't worry too much.
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