Officiating varsity games at age 20

Originally Posted by Eastshire

I started at 19. I looked 13. I solved the problem by wearing a neatly trimmed goatee which stopped me from looking so young. Coaches treated me with far more respect with the goatee than they did before I had it (which by the way, gives the lie to referees should not have facial hair theory).

I agree with ya. I wear stubble. It helps me look a few years older/tougher.

[Welpe]

I started umpiring baseball at 13 so I've been in your shoes in similar situations. I do believe you will get challenged more due to your age. There's not much you can do to prevent that. You can help head it off when it happens by always conducting yourself in a professional manner and let your conduct be beyond reproach. Some older officials or those more familiar with the coaches can get away with things that younger guys can't. Figure out what works for you and maintain a professional demeanor and you will do fine.

Good luck to you, it sounds like you're doing fine so far.

I've gotta say, I'm feeling old right about now. :|

[Rich]

Originally Posted by Welpe

I started umpiring baseball at 13 so I've been in your shoes in similar situations. I do believe you will get challenged more due to your age. There's not much you can do to prevent that. You can help head it off when it happens by always conducting yourself in a professional manner and let your conduct be beyond reproach. Some older officials or those more familiar with the coaches can get away with things that younger guys can't. Figure out what works for you and maintain a professional demeanor and you will do fine.

Good luck to you, it sounds like you're doing fine so far.

I've gotta say, I'm feeling old right about now. :|

No kidding. 20 years ago I was older than the OP is now and was working varsity hoops in a place I lived 4 states ago.

[j51969]

Originally Posted by Cvincentsmith

I am asking a question which is unique to my situation. I am a 20 year old college student who has been registered in my state (Kansas) for 3 years now. I am a 7th year official overall starting with rec ball at a young age. I have received several varsity dates this year and have more assigned to me for next year. My problem is coaching testing me, see how far they can get with me and challenging my calls due to my young age. How do I stop this from happening?

I am 45 and new in my area this year. Due to my job I move about every three years. I have found that a good court presents, strong mechanics, being decisive, and approachability are great communicators. You are never going to please these guys. Do your job and be a good mediator. Time will take care of the rest.

[letemplay]

Originally Posted by Cvincentsmith

I am asking a question which is unique to my situation. I am a 20 year old college student who has been registered in my state (Kansas) for 3 years now. I am a 7th year official overall starting with rec ball at a young age. I have received several varsity dates this year and have more assigned to me for next year. My problem is coaching testing me, see how far they can get with me and challenging my calls due to my young age. How do I stop this from happening?

Wear a belt?

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by letemplay

Wear a belt.

Shut up.

[letemplay]

Originally Posted by BillyMac

Shut up.

Rabbit ears

[Sharpshooternes]

Originally Posted by letemplay

Wear a belt?

I don't think belts were invented yet. It would have been suspenders.

[BillyMac]

... to keep their pants up.

Originally Posted by Sharpshooternes

It would have been suspenders.

Not allowed in my little corner of Connecticut, even if they were all black.

[stick]

Originally Posted by Cvincentsmith

I am asking a question which is unique to my situation. I am a 20 year old college student who has been registered in my state (Kansas) for 3 years now. I am a 7th year official overall starting with rec ball at a young age. I have received several varsity dates this year and have more assigned to me for next year. My problem is coaching testing me, see how far they can get with me and challenging my calls due to my young age. How do I stop this from happening?

Keep in mind if your assignor is giving you varsity games he must think you can handle it. Coaches know this too but no matter what age you are some coaches will test you if they've never seen you before. It goes with the territory. We all have varying ways to handle being tested but a good rule of thumb for starters is to hustle, be firm on your calls and carry yourself with confidence.
--body language. If you look lost, dazed, confused or intimidated certain coaches are going to be on you like hot peppers on chili.