Quote:
Originally posted by Junker
Thanks for the thoughts everyone. As far as pregame, so far I've only had JV and freshman games from this assignor. I try to be at the gym even for lower level games at least 20 minutes before tipoff, ready to go. In most of my games so far this year, pregame has consisted of meeting each other and shaking hands as that was about all we had time for. I hate to say anything about staying in your own area and such because I don't want to be the annoying new guy that thinks he knows everything.
|
This explains a lot. There is a reason that many officials are working this level. If they did everything the way they were supposed to, they would be working varsity ball on a consistent basis. Now please no one tell me that "I work lower level games all the time." I do work those games as well from time to time, but I most of my schedule is not lower level games. Many of the guys you will come in contact either do not know any better and are younger officials. Or you have veterans that cannot get past that level for things they have not shown they can consistently do. Unfortunately that is the nature of many lower level games. That is never going to completely change no matter how experience of an official you become.
Quote:
Originally posted by Junker
The comments about them not knowing or trusting me got me thinking. What do you look for when working with someone for the first time? I know last night when my partner walked in just before tip off, grabbed the ball and left his watch on, I thought I might be in for a long night. Next I look for mechanics on the first couple of calls. I guess the most important to me is that they make eye contact with me as soon as there is any whistle. What do you all look for?
|
I really am not sure I understand your question. The reason I stated having a pregame is very important is because it can set the tone for the game. You are not always going to have a 15-30 minute pregame. Many times it will be 2-5 minutes at that level. But you cover the major points that you will deal with like coverage area. Try to make sure both of you not watching the ball. Double whistles. Coverage of lines according to the mechanics. Eye contact and anything else that might be important to you. You cannot worry about how you are going to be perceived when a partner just shows up before tip-off. You have to cover what you can before the game and if you have to come together during timeouts and between quarters, you do that. Never be afraid to take charge. Maybe the assignor put you on the game with that partner so you could be the strong official. Do not just get frustrated. Take it as a challenge and a badge of honor.
Peace