[Bob M.]

REPLY: Jeff is correct that different parts of the country may do things differently, and that everything you hear should be validated with your local authority. However, here is a list of recommendations that pretty much transcends geography. It was compiled by Mike Buck from Texas. Some really good advice here...

POINTS TO PONDER
compiled by Mike Buck, Texas Association of Sports Officials


1. Player safety is your number one concern…after your own
2. Make the tough call
3. Don’t get emotionally involved
4. If you look like an official, you will perform like one
5. Count the players
6. Correct obvious errors
7. See leather
8. Know the down and distance
9. Sell the call but never over-officiate
10. Call what you see and see what you call
11. Don’t guess – know
12. If two officials are marking the spot one could be doing something else
13. Let the mind digest what the eye has seen
14. What efect does it have on the play?
15. It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts
16. Don’t get trapped inside…. Stay wide
17. Don’t get beat deep
18. Continue to officiate after throwing the flag
19. 4th down, stop the clock
20. Take a second look
21. The three virtues of a good official are attitude, consistency, and competence
22. Be decisive…. Indecision gives the impression of uncertainty
23. If officials are close enough to touch each other, something is wrong
24. Don’t get mad and don’t get even
25. If the fans and coaches don’t know your name or who worked the game, you’ve had a good day
26. It is more important to get it right than to look good
27. Don’t dillydally – if you are going to get it wrong, it is better to get it wrong quickly than it is to get it wrong slowly
28. False pride has no place in officiating…you’re only as good as your next call


Welcome and best of luck. Maryland operates under National Federation rules. You might also want to join the Discussion Forum at the NFHS site: http://www.nfhs.org