I'm going into my second year as an official, after what I thought was pretty good rookie season. I have been assigned many JV Boys and Girls games. Last year I only worked one JV level game.

Not sure if I'm a little jittery about the "move up", or if I'm just excited to get the season started.

How do you folks feel at this time of the year?

Hartsy

Grab a few games at your local rec gym and it'll help you work out any nervousness. Then you'll know you're just excited to get the season rollin. I still get that feeling before big games. You've got the pep-band, cheerleaders, full gym and all, it really gets you going. Those butterflies in my stomach go away as soon as we jump-it-up.

I agree with Hartsy completely. Each year I get excited about the new season as well. I always try to work as many summer scrimmages and attend two or three officiating camps as possible, so I can work out any pre-season jitters that I may have.

The biggest recommendation I would give to you is just worry about calling each and every game that you have assigned too. The cosmetic presentation (i.e. mechanics) will come in time with each and every game that you work this coming season. Just make sure that your focus is on hustleing and calling the game.

Have a GREAT season this year.

I think you will find that it is "easier" to ref games as you move up. Let me explain. You will have less traveling, double dribbles, fumbled balls etc. The skill level will be better. That being said you will have higher expectations in terms of rule knowledge, mechanics, court coverage, communication with the table and your partner and your "people skills" in dealing with the coach and players. If you have a good grasp of the rules and mechanics you will have confidence when you walk on the court. Be sure to have a good pregame with your partner and after the game discuss with your partner how he/she thought you performed. Don't be offended by what they say. File away the useful information and trash can those things that you positively know that are wrong. Also keep a journal on each game and review it periodically. If it's a prelim game and the varsity officials are there early. Ask them what you did right and what you did wrong. Above all, hustle, look good and have fun.

Relax you'll do fine. Good luck this season.

I always start my year working Jr. Girls for a couple of reasons. 1) Gets me going and some early running, 2) gets rid of the jitters and 3) if an injury occurs, you have plenty of time to get your spots filled. With that said, have fun!!! Basketball season is almost going (Varsity Girls start next week here). I hope everyone has a great season and I wish everyone luck!

This could be a difference with an area, but officials where I started always did JV games when they started. The talent is better with JV games, but at least where I was it was not a bigger deal or considered a "move up." Actually, the sophomore prelim games were more stressful because there were more fans and more people paying attention. I do not think you will find much of a difference with JV games as it relates to atmosphere. If you can handle those freshman games, the JV games tend to be easier to call. Just continue to call the obvious.

Now having said that, officiating is like riding a bike. I remember my second year I had some varsity games and I was really nervous before that season at most of my games early on. Each year the intensity of that feeling would go away. Now I am feeling more anticipation than nervousness. That had to come with time and more games I have worked. But what you feel is very normal and common amongst all officials.

Peace