Any advice for a young official?

[rainmaker]

You are moving up fast, and that means you've got something on the ball. Figure out what it is, and work on making it even better. Then figure out what is most likely to hold you back, and work ten times harder on that. Don't ever think too highly of your self, and don't ever think too little of yourself. In August and September, spend some time setting referee-ing goals for yourself. Decide what is the highest level you'd like to attain. Find five people who have been at that level for a while, two who are just arriving, and three who really wanted to get there but never did. Ask them all what you should do. Arrange to go to some of their games and to talk to them afterwards.

Specifically in the games next week, 1) don't argue with a partner, 2) don't chat up the coaches 3) don't try to be friends with the players. Do 1)maintain a quiet, confident demeanor 2)be sure you're in really good shape to run and 3) have fun!!

If Mark Dexter of this board doesn't answer you in a day or two, go to one of his old posts and e-mail him about how to ref players your own age.

Good luck!!

And let us know how you do. The advice, sympathy and congratulations of this board will help you more than almost anything else.