[MCBear]

I have used a plastic card that could be erased after each game and, also, a custom made double wheel that fit in the palm of my hand. Each side of the custom-made item had a wheel that had a spring-loaded lock underneath the wheel so that when you rotated the wheel to show who was in RB, etc., it would not slide around without doing an intentional turn to rotate the wheel. I used it until 1995 when a National Official told me to lose it and learn to keep the rotations in my head.

I do use a small form that has both starting line-ups and libero on it but I only use it when I am working a match by myself and do not have an umpire to check lineups. I check the starting lineups and then put it in my pocket. It stays there unless I lose my rotation and need a refresher as to who is supposed to be where!

I usually track all six rotations using the setter and captain as my guides. I always want to know where my captain is located and, also, the setter and whether the setter is front-row or back-row at any given time.The rest of it is simply based on experience and getting used to seeing the alignments that coaches and teams throw at you.

As was posted, get hooked up with an experienced partner who can guide you through the ropes. In addition, if you have the opportunity, go watch some of the better officials in your area work matches and pick their brains for techniques and tips that may help you.

Good luck as you begin your volleyball officiating career!