How long to master?

[grunewar]

Originally Posted by Splute

Okay it seems we have everyone from babyspanking new to gracefully aging on this forum; how long does it take to master officiating? or do you ever really get there? What are realistic goals to set for one's self regarding knowledge of the rules, mechanics, etc? I know I learn something new everyday on this forum. Is 3 to 6 months realistic to have firm knowledge of the rules? the same for mechanics?

You may get a lot of opinions here and each one is going to depend on the individual.

I've done Rec games for several yrs, but just started doing MS, JV, HS games this yr. Like you, I learn something new every game and watch my senior partners closely. My mechanics have gotten a lot better, but my knowledge of the game has a long way to go. Every time I come to this Board, I find out just how much I DON'T know. While I feel 100% better about my game than I did when the season started, until I can feel really confident in my case and rule knowledge and game management, which could be a while, I won't consider myself "there." I worked with an official the other night who managed the game very well. I watched her closely and strive to be as calm, cool, and confident as her. Good luck.