[JRutledge]

I have been fortunate and blessed to do varsity games since my first year. I got those games in my first year in order to cover the weather problems that we had at the end of the year. I think I only did about 2 or 3 that year and all were makeup games. My next year because I was considered good by many I did nearly 60 or so varsity games between the boys and girls. And ever since then I have been doing varsity almost exclusively. Now I say this because I feel that my improvement came from things I did off the court. I watched a lot of NCAA game on TV or in person when I got the chance. I read everything I could get my hands on like, Referee Magazine and the many other publications that they had, I watched games anytime I was not doing a game. That was rare but I had to do my best. When I did a JV game, I would always stay and watch the varsity officials. I think that this is huge to grow as an official. If nothing else you need to see the competition. You need to see what guys are doing or not doing and how it relates to your game. If you do that you will be better off. And you never know, they might tell someone about you. I know I cannot stand officials that do JV games and they do not stay, because I might be able to help you out down the line if I get a chance. Assignors and ADs ask about younger officials to other officials that they have not seen as much. Now I do not quite agree with Tim that you need to do 100 games or more because I really do not feel doing games in and of itself is going to make you better. It is what you do when you are not officiating that can be more important IMHO. I have found that my study of rules, philosophies, practices or just reading and talking to officials is just as valuable. Just talking basketball alone will make you more and more confident when the lights come on and it is time for you to perform. And those are things that have made me successful even though I could right a book on it alone.

But other than that have a great holidays everyone and a great New Year and rest of the season.

Peace out!!!