Newbie questions

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by euby

Now my questions...FINALLY

What was the hardest transition to make during your first year?

I am assuming you mean "transition" from a house league to HS officiating. In one word "EVERYTHING." I bet your experience is going to be totally different than what you are used to.

Originally Posted by euby

As a newbie what should be my primary focus be on... rules, mechanics, networking, conditioning?

Everything. Being a good official cannot be broken down into one or two areas. You need to learn the rules but that is going to come with time. There are veterans that have to keep up on their rules knowledge because they have not seen over the course of their career. You cannot be a good official if you are not in position to make calls. So you cannot just focus on one aspect of the game and hope to get better from there.

Originally Posted by euby

What should I avoid while dealing with AD's, coaches, other officials?

Not sure I understand the question clearly. Go out and work games. Be willing to learn and listen. Seek out advice. Throw out what does not work and apply what works.

Originally Posted by euby

Anything else?

Unless you have something very specific, there is not much else for me to say at this point. All I can say is officiating is not easy but can be a lot of fun. Set specific goals (HS, college) and be realistic about those goals. Work hard and you might just achieve most of them.

Peace