Quote:
Originally Posted by BillyMac
Once the scholastic season starts, new officials should observe as many top notch varsity officials as they can. Under no circumstances should they be leaving the site earlier than halftime of the varsity game following their subvarsity game.
If a new official was observed by varsity officials showing up early for their varsity game, new officials should be asking for advice from more experienced varsity officials, "So, did you see anything out there to help me out?". Ask for advice, don't wait, and expect to be given advice.
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My first year I believe I stayed after MAYBE 2-3 games at most. My second year maybe a dozen and it sure wasn't to watch the officials. By my third year I was getting playoff games most 8-10 year guys wish for. Keep in mind, the most important part here, is that I do not at ALL consider myself well above average. I do, however, know my limits and put in countless hours fine tuning my craft. Watching most varsity officials just wasn't something I thought was worth my time. I could spend an hour or two in the book, video recording myself at home, watching my own games, watching past HS 5A+ state final refs. Watching NCAA refs on TV, etc.
I'm sure this method works wonders for many, but I'm just not wired to get much out of it -- and I know that. I wouldn't say what was said in bold is 100% true for everyone.