What does it take to be considered a top notch official

[mightyvol]

I have often wondered about this. I have worked numerous High School Playoff games as well as the State Tournament while others that I think deserve to go are continually looked over. The things that I look for in an official must be totally different than what others look for. Would be interested to hear from you on what you would look for.

[JRutledge]

I think this varies from one place to another so drastically no one can give you a definitive answer. Of course working a state final would be a great help, but I would assume that working in the playoffs multiple times and working big high profile games can help. Even how you deal with coaches and the quality of your calls will also play a factor.

Peace

[ref18]

In advancing being good always isn't enough, it could also come down to who plays politics the best.

It's not fair, but that's the way it is.

[mightyvol]

Ill give a list of some things that I think are most important in being considered a quality official.

1. Appearance----meaning Posture, you can sell alot with a look of confidence.

2. Sharp Mechanics-------- be crisp, but dont over officiate. Dont draw unnecessary attention to yourself.

3. Judgement------ being consistent. See it happen then make the call. One of the greatest philosophies that I have learned over time.

4. Communication-----being aware of whats going on, clock, fouls, relaying messages amongst other officials.

5. Game mangagement------interaction with other officials and score keeper and timer. They are your best friends at the time, be their best friend as well.

Feel free, to add more.

[Terrapins Fan]

mightyvol



Ill give a list of some things that I think are most important in being considered a quality official.

1. Appearance----meaning Posture, you can sell alot with a look of confidence.

2. Sharp Mechanics-------- be crisp, but dont over officiate. Dont draw unnecessary attention to yourself.

3. Judgement------ being consistent. See it happen then make the call. One of the greatest philosophies that I have learned over time.

4. Communication-----being aware of whats going on, clock, fouls, relaying messages amongst other officials.

5. Game mangagement------interaction with other officials and score keeper and timer. They are your best friends at the time, be their best friend as well.

1 and 2 are at the top of the list for what you can do, but Politics is above them. Period.

Going to camps helps your chances.

#5 as far as the table goes, no way that helps anyone. JMO

[JRutledge]

What do you mean by politics? If you ask me that claim of politics is just an excuse for not taking responsibility for what you cannot do.

Peace

[MJT]

Originally Posted by mightyvol

Ill give a list of some things that I think are most important in being considered a quality official.

1. Appearance----meaning Posture, you can sell alot with a look of confidence.

2. Sharp Mechanics-------- be crisp, but dont over officiate. Dont draw unnecessary attention to yourself.

3. Judgement------ being consistent. See it happen then make the call. One of the greatest philosophies that I have learned over time.

4. Communication-----being aware of whats going on, clock, fouls, relaying messages amongst other officials.

5. Game mangagement------interaction with other officials and score keeper and timer. They are your best friends at the time, be their best friend as well.

Feel free, to add more.

I like your list, but I would like to add communication with and listening to coaches. I think this is one thing that can make a big difference for an official.

[Scrapper1]

I don't think anyone has mentioned this. Maybe it's what somebody means by "politics", but I think a big asset as a referee (and in life, in general) is the ability to get along with people. Just being a person that other people like being around. If you're just a miserable person that nobody likes working with, it's a lot harder to excel even if you can call plays. That's certainly not all it takes, but it helps.

[Junker]

I think the definition of a top notch official depends on what perspective you are looking at it from. If you are talking amongst other officials, mechanics, communication, rules knowledge, personality, etc. are all certainly what I look for in a partner. If you are talking about what it takes to get tournament games, you'd have to ask those that assign them. All of the aforementioned aspects are certainly looked at, but you also have to be seen on the right game on the right night, have good contacts, and there is absolutely a little luck involved. I try not to worry about the stuff I can't control. I try to get better every time out, be a good partner, and hopefully the rest will fall into place through my hard work.