[Robmoz]

The phrase "in need of officials" can mean different things to different people. Although there may be an adequate number of registered officials to cover all the needs in a particular sport, there are many that do not work a full schedule. This may be due to date conflicts, lack of interest to work girls vs boys, or perhaps just plain too tired to work more games.

In any event, I know plenty of qualified officials that CANNOT get a full schedule even though they desire one. This is due to the fact that many assignors give multliple games to the same officials all the time. Call it a good 'ole boys network if that helps but the shortgage is overblown IMO.

As a result, games at lower levels that can be used as good training experiences for newer officials many times get the "connected" veteran, hence the notion of politics. Meanwhile, many qualified officials are relegated to CYO, AAU, and Rec ball until they can break in to the right network. It may take a few seasons of this struggle for recognition but in the long run you will get more work if you desire.

Don't expect to get a 20 game varsity schedule unless you are active in your association, pay your dues, attend the assignor's camp, and never turn back assignments no matter how crappy you may think they are...be patient.

In Michigan, the greatest need is for Lacrosse officials as 2005 will be the first year MHSAA has sponsored the sport on a statewide basis and most schools will now field a team. They are offering $75 per game in an effort to entice officials to sign up.



[Edited by Robmoz on Feb 9th, 2005 at 02:21 PM]