Help me ...I'm wrestling with myself...

[wanja]

Attend an official's camp that includes video tape review, has an emphasis on instruction, includes a high level of play and preferably services a team (rather than individual) camp. If you can, talk to someone who has attended the camp before signing up.

Besides more physical play, the speed of the game and the intensity of players and coaches are the factors that I need to adjust to most at higher levels. This is usually offset by better skill. If you can handle the speed and intensity then here are some tips that help me with physicality:

1. referee the defense first

I know this has become a cliche, but it works. If you cannot specifically identify what the defense has done wrong then don't penalize the defense because there was contact.

2. reward good defense

If borderline contact occurs after a good defensive effort (e.g. clean blocked shot), let it go.


3. penalize bad defense

If borderline contact occurs after bad defense (e.g reaching across offenders body for a block) nail it unless doing so would take an advantage away from the offensive player.


4. If legitimately calling a foul is likely to decrease later fouls and improve the game, get it.

5. Observe how other officials handle physical play, e.g. focus exclusively on post play for a few trips.

6. Set the tone early by not passing on early fouls. Most times players will adjust for the rest of the game. If your officiating team finds that you are calling too tight, it is easier to loosen up rather than tighten up.

7. If you are questioning calling a foul and there has been clear displacement, call it.

8. Look for opportunites to penalize over aggressive play against both teams early and within a short time frame.

I continue to struggle with handling physical play, so if anyone else wants to share tips, bring 'em on.