Summer camps

[Toren]

I'm convinced I need to leave the state this summer for a camp. I've attended just about every in state camp that is offered here.

My mentor has pointed me to the Emerald City Officiating Academy in Washington State.

Anyone have insight on this? I read some of what they offer and it definitely looks inviting, but has anyone attended and can give a personal account of your experience?

Also are there other camps that are learning camps (not try-out) camps that anyone recommends?

I'm in my 3rd year overall, 2nd varsity year. This is the first season I have done playoff games. Had 2 playoff games last week and 1 this week. I expect that will be my last game. But I'm looking for a learning camp to get me into a final 4 setting in high school and perhaps lead me to my ultimate goal of D1.

[HawkeyeCubP]

D1 men's or women's?

[Camron Rust]

There are certainly many camps out there. Whether it would be worth leaving your home state to go to camp, I can't say. But I'd bet that you could easily find appropriate camps closer to home for a 3rd year official, even if you went a 2nd time and even for a very good 3rd year official.


That said, I have not been to this camp but I've heard nothing but great things about it....from some of my close friends who have. I've been to other camps where the ECOA directors were clinicians...and they were among the mot useful clinicians I've experienced.

A camp that I'm usually a clinician at models its methods after the ECOA camp. (Metro Allstars Officials Camp website is out of date but they're still operating...new data should be posted soon)

[Toren]

Originally Posted by HawkeyeCubP

D1 men's or women's?

I'd eventually like to do D1 mens. But I'm not really good enough yet to make that decision, but as I'm trying to get better, I would like to gear my camp career toward mens.

[refiator]

As a 3rd year official, be careful about becoming overzealous......You may be an outstanding official who can move up quickly, but don't miss the forest because of the trees. I'd get to some JUCO camps in your area. You need to establish some relationships...That is critical to move to higher levels.
I went to a D1 camp in my 5th or 6th year...It was eye-opening to the power struggles in officiating. Though I never made it to D1, I did meet some JUCO and D2/3 assigners there that I was able to sign on with after a short while.

That said, most any camp is a good camp...And I may be telling you things you already know.....

Good Luck!!!!!

[rockyroad]

Emerald City is an excellent camp. Great balance of teaching with having enough people there to "be seen" by. It will be worth your time and money.

[Jeremy Hohn]

There is a good camp right in Fort Collins to get you started. Dave Hall is a good instructor and has a great staff.