Officiating varsity games at age 20
 

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?

Listen.

Warn when appropriate.

T when necessary.


It's human nature. They'll test you just like little kids test their parents.

I know a 20 year old who works D3 ball here. His father posts in this forum.

Observe how older officials handle challenges from coaches. Shouldn't be any different for you b/c of your age.

Wasn't Bragging
 

I was not in anyway trying to boast about getting varsity games I just wanted to explain my situation. I am very thankful for the opportunity. Just wanted to clear that up.

I know exactly what you are saying. I too am 20 years old, and this year did 24 varsity games. I think my biggest challenge has been coaches testing me.

It is only natural to expect a certain amount of extra scrutiny when doing a job at a young age. If your performance is good enough, this should take care of itself soon enough. But coaches can/will twist anything into a negative.

On any given night your age can be used against you:

"WHY DID THEY SEND ME THIS ROOKIE?"

against your partner:

"The kid is twelve years old and he's way better than you."

against both of you:

"Hey, kid, take your grandfather and go on home."

Funny story about the grandfather thing, Monday I worked with two very veteran officials one 78 the other 76 and they still are in better position then guys I've seen work that are half their age. My problem is with coaches challenging me on every call I make regardless of it was obvious or not. I had a veteran coach chew me every time I ran up and down the court he was a well respected veteran coach and never did it so anyone else could hear it always standing next to me. After the game while walking to our locker rooms he shook my hand and said I did a good job. Testing me alright.

Get older. ;)

It is probably as much related to their lack of familiarity with you as it is your age. You could be 40 and working their game for the first time and get the same treatment. He already knows how the veterans that he has seen 50 times will react. He knows what to expect from them. You're an unknown.

How do you know it's because of your young age?

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.

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. :|

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.

78 and 76? God bless 'em I still have a future!

Regarding crews always smart to mix ages, sizes.

What state are you from?

OP Says Kansas

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. :)

Those are my grandsons. ;)

Wear a belt?:D

No matter your age, they test you. I got into HS refereeing when I was 44 and in my 1st local varsity game, the coach worked me. Learn from it.

The more you work, the better you get, go to camps, do summer leagues.

Certainly a combination of age and lack of familiarity. At least that was the case for me when I broke into V games. Proper play calling, proper mechanics, confidence, using voice, and good sharp whistles show them you're capable of handling the game. Beyond that, they will test you to see what they can get away with, so focus on professional communication, giving short, rules based answers to appropriate questions and then warning/whacking when necessary.

Two Words Should Do It ...
 

Shut up.

He Can See James Naismith's Grave From His House ...
 

Big Deal. Mark T. DeNucci, Sr. is 99, and he's still working games.

two more
 

Rabbit ears:)

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

Why Do Referees Wear Black Suspenders ???
 

... to keep their pants up.

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

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.