Tommy,

Without a doubt you got it (the point that is). ;)

Peace

Our association is pretty small ( 40 total officials). I'm in my sophomore season.

We run the gamut with seniority and experience; from guys with 30+ years to this year's cadet class of 9. Without an exception, the Senior Officials (purposely & respectfully capialized) go out of their way to coach, counsel, positively critique, and improve the officiating experience for those with less experience. Those that have an open ear, and a willing, learning attitude will advance to the upper divisions. I've been fortunate to move to a FR/JV/ limited V schedule this season.

Speaking personally, I could not have asked for a better group of folks to work with. I'm looking forward to many more years with my basketball officiating "family", and to stepping into a mentor and senior role myself in a few seasons.

that sounds good Coach2Ref-
even if it is just a half.
maybe it will spread

"It is still very much a work-in-progress, but varsity crews are now paired with FR/JV crews for all league games. On the boys side, all FR//JV crews are 3-man crews to give the newer officials experience in 3-man mechanics prior to moving up to the varsity level. At least one, and in many cases two or three of the varsity offiicials will watch part of the FR game and ALL of the JV game. Lots of interaction at halftime from a mentoring standpoint. Frequently, the FR/JV officials stay to watch at least half of the varsity game (and come in for the varsity halftime discussion)."

You Scratch My Back ...
 

Here in my little corner of Connecticut, varsity officials are strongly encouraged to be there for the tipoff of the junior varsity game, and to offer some constructive criticism, and encouragement, to the junior varsity officials during their halftime. Likewise, junior varsity officials are strongly encouraged to stay for at least half or the varsity game, and to observe the halftime varsity pow wow. Funny thing, most varsity officials do this most of the time. I can't say the same for the junior varsity officials (see earlier post).