Blah blah blah
 

You know, I read all this stuff about this, that or the other rule or why some guy who got caught on U-Tube had a bad call, or how some newbie made some bonehead decision.

But I wicked (New England reference) love getting out there and being part of the game,whether varsity, JV, or the myriad of kids leagues.

Don't tell anyone, but I'd do a lot of it for free.

I know what you mean, but.......
 

While I have done some charity work, I wouldn't say I'd do "a lot" of it for free. :)

I seem to recall someone's tagline being, "We officiate the games for free . . . they pay us to put up with all the #*/?# we have to take!"
Recently, after a coach was having a really bad day, and apparently was trying to spread it around, during the game, with his behavior, and comments to my partners and me, a couple of the parents commented about his behavior, and I responded with that line. They thought it was great!
So, thanks to whomever it was that originated that line.

Quid Pro Quo ...
 

Agree with the part about getting out there, and being part of the game, at all levels. I wicked love it.

As far as the free part goes. This past season I traveled almost 1600 miles back and forth to games, spent over $250.00 on expenses, attended several association meetings, and rushed after work to observe countless subvarsity contests before my varsity assignments. I'd say that I was fairly compensated. I certainly wouldn't do it all for free.

All payouts are not financial. If gas, expenses, mileage on the car/truck and camp and association fees were all free than yes I would. But none of those things are. And I certainly could make more money doing other things that I sacrifice to work a game. If it was not for the love of the game and officiating especially I would not be doing this to this extent. And there is no money in the world that will make me do all levels. Some of those levels I worked hard to not have to do ever again if I choose.

Peace