How to do your best with new/sub-par officials?

[jdw3018]

In the last two years I've really tried to take my officiating to a higher level. I'm visiting and participating in discussion boards like this one. I'm learning how to apply the rules, not just know them. I've been to high school and juco camps, I'm seeking out mentors and working hard on position and angles, applying advantage/disadvantage, etc. And, I've made real progress and my schedule last year showed that.

The question relates to how to continue to improve and "show my stuff" when working with brand new and sub-par officials? Unfortunately for my officiating progression, a job-related move has taken me to a brand new state with a completely new system for assigning games and rating officials. I'm proving myself all over again, and that's fine and to be expected, but I'm struggling with being on top of my game with partners who most obviously aren't.

Last night was my second scrimmage, and I've got another tonight before the season starts. My performance in these scrimmages is important, as I'll be given a rating by the assigners for my district based on my performance. So far, it's gone okay and I've gotten good feedback from my assignors, but far from where I want to be. I've been stuck in both with partners who are significantly sub-par, mostly due to inexperience. Last night with one who is brand new this year, and we were officiating two very athletic boys teams from the largest class in the state.

I made at least two calls that were "borderline" my responsibility, at best. One was flat out of my primary. I was just having a hard time trusting my partners and the game was getting a bit out of hand at times.

Sorry for the long, rambling post, but I'd love if any of you who are in or have been in similar situations have advice or suggestions on how I can continue to improve and grow in this situation. I anticipate getting a few varsity contests this year with other experienced and "well-rated" officials, but I'll be doing a lot of JV and maybe some MS, and will see last night's type of situation a lot.