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Somebody told me once that it takes 500 games (at any level) to prepare yourself for the varsity level. The idea was that you'd probably see just about everything by then.
That probably holds true in Ohio to some extent. At FR and JV they assign double headers. Work 3-4x a week for 13 weeks and thats roughly 80 games. Add in some kids stuff here and there and summer ball and 100 games a season is pretty easy to hit. Seems like around here, if you are gonna move up, it takes about 5-7 years so doing the math, 500 games is doable in that time frame.
In my opinion though you also have to weigh what leagues you work. Not all high school leagues, regardless of the level are created equal. Example, in Cincinnati, if you work GCL or GMC boys JV games, you have likely worked a tougher game than 40% the varsity games in the 50 mile vicinity but you get to do it two man vs. three. In my mind, this really builds exerience and confidence.
But to the question...what makes an experienced official? Is the word "experience"? Or is the word Quality?
So what makes a quality official?
In shape? Or at least can run?
Battle tested?
Knows their primary?
Calls the obvious?
Ref's the D?
Trust their P?
Works on their avocation thru camps and clinics?
[Edited by Larks on Jun 29th, 2005 at 02:22 PM]
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