Now I'm ANGRY

[mikesears]

I just checked our state association website for any new rankings that have come in. In Illinois, you are supposed to get a ranking from 1 (best) to 5 (worst) from each Varsity contest for which you officiate. You can also get ratings from the highest ranked officials (certified).

This is what I just received:

1 "four (below average)" from a coach. (No explanation allowed). (Probably from the moron coach who was threatening me with poor ratings during a game - I've only done three Varsity games and this was early in the season.)

1 "three (average)" from a certified official. This official said I need to work on three categories: Rules knowledge, mechanics and positioning, and judgment.

Now to what makes me a little angry:

#1. No real mentoring program. I've been a member of my association for several years now and haven't gotten any kind of mentor to assist me. I really want to know how to improve. I don't want coaches rating me "4-below average". How can I find a mentor?

#2. Veterens aren't providing any insights. After many of my games (especially where I work with veterens), I ask what I can do to improve. I usually get the standard, "you did fine" or "just keep working on your mechanics". I really want specifics.

I really just want to vent but also encourage veterens out there to help us who are getting started. This board is GREAT for helping out with rules knowledge. However, no of you SEE me work so it is hard to work on mechanics and positioning and judgment.

Just venting a little over some pretty average ratings.