The Pro's And Con's Of New Officials Attending Camps

[Marty Rogers]

After two short seasns of HS subvarsity and rec ball,
I went to my first ref camp (IAABO, RI). What I
learned is that I REALLY STINK at reffing (so far).
It was a great experience, but the campers had too
wide of a range of experience. from brand new to
very experienced.

I have just completed five years (many more games
per year now) and I will attend the IAABO camp
(2 man) in July in Orlando. I know I will get more
out of it this time, because I have all my basics
down, and won't be overwhelmed by everything.
IAABO has changed their format to offer separate
camps to new and experienced officials (good idea).

Dan Picard offers two weekend camps at Boston College
in June and July. Campers take either 2 or 3 man
mechanics. I attended this one also, last summer. His
e-mail is [email protected]

Camps are very good, but in my case, I feel that I
must (want to) attend one every few years to sharpen my skills. My board doesn't provide much in the way of
working on mechanics and on the floor evaluation. I think the more you know what you are doing, the more you learn.
This can be accomplished by more years and more
games only. Camps are a tool to help you along the way