new offical

[dsturdy5]

1. Work, work, work. Do not say no to an assignor unless it is absolutely necessary. If you do, sound greatful for the opportunity and leave the door open for future games.

2. Talk to as many experienced officials as you can. Take in everything they say. Over time you will be able to discriminate between the usefull and useless advice.

3. Practice your mechanics in front of a mirror.

4. Study and after you are comfortable with "everything" then let your friends and family who know the game ask you questions, "What if..." They will come up with some doozies and most of them will be in the case book. It will help you to realize what you need to focus on...also what a weird game this can be!

5. If you can, video tape yourself working. Watch it to see what you did well and what you need to improve on.

6. Pick one thing per game/assignment to work on. Do not try to perfect everything all at once. It will be too overwhelming.

[MikeK27]

Last season was my first year and this forum was a very valuable resource. You can learn a lot and get a good dose of humor here too. The forum search button is also a good place to check for answers too.

[KJUmp]

Originally Posted by MikeK27

Last season was my first year and this forum was a very valuable resource. You can learn a lot and get a good dose of humor here too. The forum search button is also a good place to check for answers too.

Same for me...last year was my first. The guys and gals on this board were an invaluable help to my development.
Never be afraid to ask these experienced officials a question (no matter how dumb or nieve it might seem to you)....you'll find your answers here. You've already received some great advice to the question you asked in your post.
You'll learn just from reading other posts and the replies.
Two things I can tell you with certainty...(1) you'll never get "flammed" or embarassed by any of the long time veteran posters on this board. (2) you'll be a better official by the end of your first season spending time here and learning from a great group of officials and following their advice.
KJump