Lessons in survival

[rainmaker]

I'm at the end of my fourth season, and have come from "hopeless" to "a most promising future" (actual unsolicited quotes from actual people about me). I can attribute it largely to the input of more experienced refs, and to my own hunger to improve. Our association has plenty of peoplw who are willing to help, but it's not always easy to find them. But our class teachers are very willing, and also channel folks to others, and we usually have a camp or two where less experienced people can meet and get acquainted with their superiors. We also had a mentor program this year, which was great for some, not so good for others. But the classes, camps and mentor program do at least get the "newbies" a little in touch with the "oldies".

Some of the things that are said in classes, meetings and camps that have encouraged me to pursue the opinions of others: 1) After your lower level game, stay and watch one quarter of the next game. Ask the officials at the end of the quarter, or at half-time if you could ask two questions. 2) Find out ahead of time who is doing the game after yours, and ask them to fill out an eval form for you. 3) Ask questions at meetins about rules, or case situations. 4) If a more experienced official doesnt seem to want to help, ask someone else.

What to say to the more experineced officials to encourage them to be helpful and open 1) These younger officials may bail you out of a jam one day, such as a sprained ankle or arriving late due to a traffic snarl. 2)This new person may be your partner soon. you'll want him to be at his best. 3) Remember that someone helped you once, pay it forward! 4) helping out the younger officials earns good brownie points with the association and assignor!