Ohio Certification

[TheViper]

I realize that most certification classes are held in September each year but does anyone know of any possible way that I could become certified before summer? I have talked to everyone I know in my area, and nobody can do anything for me until September. I need to be certified for this summer so that I can referee two local summer leagues. (Money for college!)

[mbyron]

Go to the OHSAA website and locate your local association secretary. Make your case to him or her, and ask for a letter to the state association requesting that you be allowed to take your test now (or May, or whenever). If you have your secretary's support, the state might allow it.

[rgncjn]

The earliest I have seen is a class in July. They have not held this class for the last two years. Follow what mbryon said.

I know that this is about the time a lot of people (in my area) are upgrading their officiating permit from Class 2 to Class 1. I do not see a reason why you would not be able to take just the Class 2 portion of the exam.

[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

The Viper:

The Buckeyes that posted before me have given you good advice. But the reality of the situation is that the OhioHSAA sanctioned classes really can't start much earlier than the middle of September. The earliest I ever started my class with the Wood Co. Bkb. Off. Assn. was the first week of October.

If you are worried about getting games. That shouldn't be a problem. As a first year Class 2 official there will be plenty of jr. H.S. doubleheaders, H.S. freshmen games, and CYO games to officiate and gain experience. As an example, my oldest son took the course this year and became a Class 2 basketball official. Because he is a senior in H.S. and swims for his H.S. swim team, his open dates were limited, but he was still able to schedule seven jr. H.S. doubleheaders and one Special Olympics regular season doubleheader. I don't know what your availability situation will be next year but you should have an opportunity to officiate enough times to get experience.

MTD, Sr.