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Originally Posted by rockyroad
I'm not really one of those people that "goes out" with the refs very often either...I like to get home to my wife and three sons and spend time with them...however, when I was younger and trying to "move up" I realized that the social aspect had a huge impact on my position within the association. So I made compromises with my wife and kids and sacrificed some time with them...at this point in my life/career I can look back and see both the positives and negatives to those compromises...would I do it again - yes. Because those sacrifices (which really in my case were only every other Friday evening after games) helped me get where I am...like it or not, there is a lot of "politics" in officiating, and to be successful, sometimes you have to play that game - I just like to think that I manipulated the game somewhat to my benefit.
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I want to make this clear (I am not picking you Rocky, just want to make a point). It is not a prerequisite to be a good official to go out. The point I was making earlier about this, was the fact that many things can and will be discussed after the game. There are people that will be at these "social events" you will not likely see during the season or talk to during the season. There might be someone at these events that can help you either directly or indirectly with a contact or an opportunity you might not have ordinarily received. It does not mean you cannot get to the same place without this help, but when someone can put a name with a face or look you in the eye, it is much better than having a cold conversation over the phone. We could take officiating completely out of this and talk about running a business or in a sales job. Many decisions are made out of the office or out of the board room. Many decisions are made on the golf course, at a banquet or at the bar. I know I tend to make contacts with others somewhere else than on that court or in the locker room. You do not have to go out at all and still be successful. You just might not be where people are to ask you first. Or to give you contact that will send your career soaring.
I will be at an association run social on Friday. Usually there are D1 Officials, State Final Officials, multiple playoff officials and a couple of assignors of either conferences or tournaments. Anyone attending is going to benefit if they simply introduce themselves to one of these individuals.
Peace