[tomegun]

I've posted before the fact that I think some people on this board have gained a reputation for typing good instead of really being good on the court. Over time I have learned that some of those people have a high probability of being a good official and some don't. That is my fault for maybe speaking up too soon pure and simple. However, I know for a fact that there are officials that work at a high level on this board but get dumped on because of their post count. I can't change that, it is what it is. What we should realize as veteran officials is times have changed and this recent trend on the board is just a reflection of that. A new official wants it now and they don't want to read/listen more than they talk even though that might be the best thing to do.

1. I emulated the veteran officials when I started. From the uniform to the mechanics.

2. While emulating those veterans I was seen and not heard. In other words I shut up and listened.

3. Given the choice of mentoring/advising a "young official" that is 21 or a seasoned professional in their job I would take the 21 year old 8 days a week. Some think success in their profession means success as an official.

4. I have seen some posts that make me wonder also "I had an intense 8th grade game." Huh? Is that possible?

I think young officials should ask questions but it would probably help the entire situation if they ask complete/precise questions. It seems like information is left out too many times and it comes back to bite them. Officiating requires thick skin and sometimes we get our arse kicked when we don't realize this.

P.S. Totalnewbie, I'm very curious to know who these "squared away" officials are that are your mentors. Since I lived where you are I'm sure I know them as does Nevada. I also know that a lot of the officials that are really "squared away" are constantly on the road doing college games. Can you post your mentors initials (I know that might be much)? I think I was pretty "squared away" when I lived there and I might be able to help you out some.

[Edited by tomegun on Feb 1st, 2005 at 09:59 AM]