Quote:
Originally posted by NCnewref
I am just getting started in becoming a basketball official. I am going to attend my first camp this June and would like some advice. Is there anything special I should take with me other than the normal stuff or are there other things I should know. I am eager to get started and would like some advice from the vets out there on some important tips. You can imagine I am a little nervous about this being I have no exp as of yet.
Thanks!
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Probably the most important thing you can do at this stage of your career, is to find a mentor. It needs to be someone that is rather accomplished as an official, at a level you want to work at (varsity, college, NBA maybe?). Then when you go to camps, just listen to everything being said. You might here conflicting information from time to time, but just listen and not question the info. Officials tend to not always agree on what is best and there are many things that different official might do. Read the mechanics books from front to cover and try to follow them as close as possible when you are starting out. It will help you understand any confusing language that might be repeated over and over again. And most of all, have fun. You are going to learn so many things over a short period of time and it will be overwelming. We all have been there, it will be like taking a crash course that everyone expects (outside of the officials) will want perfection from. It will take you a few years to completely have a clue to what is going on. Just understand that going in, and you will be fine.
Good luck to you.
Peace