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I don't know about NC, but here in MD it was possible.
I was a first year official last year (2000), and I ended
up working several varsity games, but not because I was
assigned/scheduled for them. Here are a couple of things
that worked for me:
1) Every Thursday and Friday afternoon, I made a call into
the commissioner to let him know that I had availability for
Friday evening or Saturday afternoon should he have a last
minute opening. I was fortunate that he took a chance on me
early in the season and that I worked a my first couple of
games with some good people (officials) who were quick to
let the commissioner know that I was capable of working at
that level. The commissioner never got tired of me calling,
and he made it clear that he was glad I called. He actually
ended up assigning me to a couple of late season varsity
games.
2) I worked the box on a chain crew on a varsity game when I
did't have one. Every crew (especially HL) I approached
was delighted to have an official on the chain crew. Even
if I wasn't not throwing flags, I'd get no better training
than being on the field with the same view as a wingman. I
was involved in every play: counted defense, offensive
formation. I developed a feel for the speed of the game.
Additionally, the crew always included me in their pregame
and halftime (during which I remained silent unless they
asked my input). This whole exercise not only helped
develop my skills, but it also got myself some exposure to
my officiating organization and it let them know I am
dedicated and serious about being out there (I could of
hung out in a bar with some friends on a Friday evenings
wishing I was on the field).
3) I ALWAYS carried my officiating stuff with me. I
never knew when I could called to action. I worked 3 games
last year, because I voluntarily came to work the chain crew
and found that one of the officials was stuck in traffic,
and they threw me out on the field until he got there.
Another time, the crew decided that it would be great to
work a 5 man game (we only work 4 here!!), and they asked
if I'd like to participate pro bono (If you want PT, it's
not about the money!). Another time, there was an unknown
scheduling error where an official was placed on another
game at the last minute and the new official was told the
wrong game site. Well, I happened to be there and picked
up another varsity game.
4) I was gracious. I told the crew that I appreciated the
opportunity to work the box for their game. I really was
thankful. If the commissioner assigned me a game, I'd
personally thank him for the opportunity and that I would't
let him down - I knew he was sticking his neck out for me.
5) I wasn't cocky. I tried to be perceived as the lowest
man on the totem pole out there on the field to my crew,
but appeared able and confident (this kept the coaches off
my back). I did my job and took care of my area of the
field as best as I could. I did A LOT of LISTENING, and
spoke little when asked. I did what ever my white hat
told me to do no matter if I thought(or knew) it was wrong.
I'd approach him about it after the game in an inquisitive
manner (not challenging).
6) I steered clear of the political babble that goes on in
the crew. I made no disparaging remarks about anyone or how
things were run.
7) I didn't have any BIG screw-ups. Sure I had a some
mistakes in mechanics and I missed a few calls, but none
that cost a kid a scholarship or kept a team from the
playoffs. I tried to make all of my calls BIG. No ticky-
tack or marginal stuff. I remembered, nobody has ever
played, coached or OFFICIATED a perfect game.
All in all, if you really want to get out there early, you
are going to have to create the opportunities for yourself
and make the best of them. Of course it heavily depends on
how your local chapter works, but I'd be willing to try any
of this anywhere. I would not consider any of what I did
overly aggressive or ingraciatory.
This is my 2nd year, and I just got my schedule for the
first half of the season and it is full ...
Hope this helps
[Edited by Zeke5 on Aug 1st, 2001 at 05:04 PM]
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