Getting feedback from the Varsity Crew

[SmokeEater]

Originally Posted by zebraman

Rainmaker has a good idea in contacting the varsity crew ahead of time. Whenever a newer official calls me or e-mails me and asks if I'll critique them, I make sure to get there early for their entire game and give them a written evaluation. That way, I still have something to give them even if I don't have time to talk to them after their game (a thorough pregame before my game is very important to me).

Last time I asked a senior Official to come out early for some feedback he wanted to charge me $30 for an evaluation. Thanks but no thanks.

[Odd Duck]

Originally Posted by SmokeEater

Last time I asked a senior Official to come out early for some feedback he wanted to charge me $30 for an evaluation. Thanks but no thanks.

Well, let's do the math. I just paid $200 for a camp and had 4 games. That works out to $50 per evaluation. Granted, the clinicians were all D1 on the womens side and not a "local yokel", but they also stated up front that they would be focusing on floor positioning and mechanics...not rules...and that we needed to remember that "when in Rome...". They also stated their recall of NFHS rules may not be 100% acurate and to check with our local rules interpreter. Now, I learned a lot at the camp and got some fantastic pointers on floor coverage and techniques for us not-so-fleet-footed guys.

With the local guy, you get the local preferences/exceptions/customs on both mechanics and rules application. Would I ask for a game fee...no. Is the request unreasonable...not really...IMO.

[refin1]

odd Duck, Some V officials forget where they come from. My advise is to find a veteran official who's been thru the fire, ask them if they would be willing to mentor you , accept their advise graciously and go along for the ride. Have fun with officiating and always remember to keep your family first

[zebraman]

Originally Posted by SmokeEater

Last time I asked a senior Official to come out early for some feedback he wanted to charge me $30 for an evaluation. Thanks but no thanks.

I hope you don't let that one experience keep you from trying it again. I have never heard of anyone doing that. It takes all kinds. Most veterans I know enjoy helping an enthusiastic rookie (yes, for free). We remember the kind veterans who helped us along in our first 3 or 4 years.