TerrapinsFan, I totally get where you're coming from. I know that scenario all too well myself. And you are right: It's all politics.
Politics: the unwritten rules by which a group or organization
really operates. Those who would succeed need to know what the rules are, and find ways to work within them too.
Young people often rise quickly based on "the look" and perceived potential. Man, it's easy to hate the game, and sometimes even the playah, when we don't have that kind of "automatic" in.
You and I have to break in on proven merit, through building relationships, and by controlling what we can control. This is where I live. Rules knowledge, hustle, mechanics, game management, mentoring younger officials, being a leader, infectious enthusiasm, availability, positive attitude, constantly working to get better, humility, being a team player, going to camps, and maybe most important of all, being seen to be doing all of that. That's stuff I can control. That's what's got me noticed. And this year, I'm even working very hard at being as "pretty" as I can be.
When I finally "make it" (which may well be this year, the jury is meeting soon to do rankings), me and the pretty boys will be back on equal footing. Only I'll have more experience, better game management skills, be more respected, and have all those other qualities that I "had" to learn....and they won't. So bring on the pretty boys; we R's need U99's to fill out the crew!
