[camaulds]

I first started Officiating in Louisiana in 1976.

After a few games on the wings the R asked me to move inside...I must have had a rough first half because at half time he got all over me about not moving in when the O showed pass...He must have sensed that I was a little bit timid about moving toward the line...I don't remember the exact words but he told me he was looking for me to come close enough to "stick my nose up their (butts) the next time they show pass."...He warned me he would be watching.

The first play after the 2nd half K/O the O line back peddled showing pass...Like a good student I got my nose as close as I could...The D line penetrated and suddenly the QB dropped a screen pass over the middle...When the O line and RB began to run up field I was the only thing between them and the goal line.

I was trampled...Literally!

The R followed the play as best he could but it's hard to run when you are laughing so hard...He helped me up and said "well, you did what I told you to do...You're gonna be alright"...I wasn't sure if he meant for the rest of the game or as a FB Official.

I have worked Varsity at 4 of the 5 field positions...The only position I have never worked a V game is...You guessed it...Umpire!...I still have those cleat marks on my face, chest and legs...LOL.

Here in Mid Michigan many of the Umpires look like they popped out of the same mold...I am sure my day is coming but to date I can still run and I have the shape to stay on the wings...My favorite position has always been Line Judge which is what I work for V games with my crew and for P/O games...My second favorite would be Referee.

I admire all the guys I know who are good at the Umpire position...It take special skill to stay on your feet there, get a feel for the game, Officiate the point of attack and establish a rapport with the kids...The ones who can master those things are world class Officials in my book.

Just for the record, the U on our crew is as good as they come...He has worked 3 State Finals and numerous Semi's...When it comes to Officiating I can't hold his flag...I am blessed to be able to work such a competent Offical...Our R is like a walking rule book and has a great feel for the game but having such a knowledgable U in the middle really helps the LJ, HL and BJ...It makes it easy to Officiate your area when you have confidence in the other people around you.

One critical thing that makes our U so good is that he absolutely loves his spot...My advice would be to find a U who loves the spot and knows the game...You have to love that spot to be effective.