Need some advice.

[Texas Aggie]

I'll let others deal with traveling.

As far as the strong/weak partner, I think EVERYONE struggles with this. I know I did. Here's some things I would suggest:

1. Not caring what level, have a good pre-game. Take control, or insist that they take control. Sometimes it isn't so much a weak partner as it is a lazy one.

2. Work very hard to help him out, even if he doesn't do the same for you. An example is on fouls, while still watching the player, let him know that you've got the shooter.

3. Talk, talk, and talk some more. Timeouts, halftime, etc. The tendancy is to think, "boy, if we can just get this game over with..." and ignore him, but then you get into the trap of him pulling you down.

Ultimately, you have to be the best official you can be. Study the rules, get your mechanics in tip top shape, watch as many games with other officials as you can, and work as many games as you can. If at all possible, have someone video your games. I found that the better YOU are, sometimes that helps other weaker officials rise up.