Seniority.......

[Jerry]

A couple of things come to mind. First . . . in a couple more years, you'll be a "senior" official and faced with the same dilema; especially if you're working with someone already.

Secondly . . . make sure that your uniform is impeccable, that you study the rules and interpretations backwards and forwards, that you show up early for all your games and that you conduct yourself as a "senior official" . . . even if it's for the lower level games.

Thirdly . . . assuming the old-timers are friendly/personable guys, PICK THEIR BRAINS. As 'em questions on what they'd rule in certain situations, how they cover the mechanics, etc. Ask if they could use a "three-man", so all of you can get some practice. I think you'll find yourself fitting in fairly quickly. At least at the top of the list for being a substitute in case one of them can't make it for a game.

Good luck.

Jerry