first game(s)

[Stat-Man]

Originally Posted by pzebra

Registered in mid-Decemeber, first games today. Local youth rec league.

Three games...3rd grade boys, and two 3rd/4th grade girls today. 8:00 minute quarters, running clock. Halftimes almost non-existant (2 minutes). Boys game was close (but no OT), girls games lopsided.

I am already asking myself if I am cut out for this. I learned it is a lot easier to read the rulebook than to put it all into practice.

I will say the coaches were all very cordial and understanding.

Was supposed to have a 10 year veteran partner, but stuff happens. Ended up starting first game solo. So obviously no pre-game. Replacement partner arrives about a minute into the first game. (he had worked multiple games in the same league at a different site immediately before arriving) Partner has been registered less time than me, but had done a few games already. He carried me.

I found myself getting in a hurry adminstering throw-ins (esp. to the team that was behind). I was way too timid on blowing the whistle. Had a lot of jump balls the probably should have been fouls. Missed double dribbles that my partner called, but I clearly should have been in position for. I can think of many more things I did wrong, but then this post would be several pages long.

Welcome to the world of officiating. I, too, am in my first year.

In my first game (JV Girls), my partner arrived 15 minutes before the game and aside from introducing himself, didn't do anything before the game.

I ended up ball watching so much in the first half, I called a held ball ... being tied up by two players from the same team.

Once my partner and I talked at halftime, that broke the ice enough for me to feel better out on the floor.

Every game since, I try to recall areas I could improve on from previous games and try to improve in the next game. I have a game this week and I'm going to try to do a better job with block/charge calls (or no calls as appropriate).

Although one of our trainers commented that we should keep dead-ball time to a minimum, it's still important not to rush calls and such.

Hang in there, it does get better with experience and dedication to learning and improving.