Camp Question

[blue3]

Here's the situation and then please give me your comments as to whether you think this is acceptable. Please keep in mind that each of our officials are considered to be an independent contractor. I don't know if that matters or not, but just wanted to mention it.

There is a tryout camp in our area run by a college official in April that our high school chapter uses to promote guys and girls from JV to Varsity. They must attend this camp to be considered for promotion. The camp is actually an AAU Tournament that pays him a boat load of money. The officials get zip. There are also a few other NCAA D-II and D-III officials on hand to critique varsity officials wanting to get better.

So, what are your opinions? I do realize that there is some benefit to be gained, however, in some cases he is asking that some officials work both days, Saturday and Sunday and perhaps, work up to four games each day, if they are able.

Is this really a camp or a revenue maker for the tournament director?

[Rich]

Originally Posted by blue3

Here's the situation and then please give me your comments as to whether you think this is acceptable. Please keep in mind that each of our officials are considered to be an independent contractor. I don't know if that matters or not, but just wanted to mention it.

There is a tryout camp in our area run by a college official in April that our high school chapter uses to promote guys and girls from JV to Varsity. They must attend this camp to be considered for promotion. The camp is actually an AAU Tournament that pays him a boat load of money. The officials get zip. There are also a few other NCAA D-II and D-III officials on hand to critique varsity officials wanting to get better.

So, what are your opinions? I do realize that there is some benefit to be gained, however, in some cases he is asking that some officials work both days, Saturday and Sunday and perhaps, work up to four games each day, if they are able.

Is this really a camp or a revenue maker for the tournament director?

Yes.

[crosscountry55]

Originally Posted by Rich

Yes.

Indeed. It is what it is. Sometimes you have to spend money to make money in this business. It's no different in college camps. Basically you yield your game fees to the camp staff in exchange for an opportunity. It's that simple.

[Rich]

I've been on both sides of the camp equation.

I still try to go to one "hardcore" teaching camp every year. I'm not that good and I can learn one or two things to take into the next season.

No real interest in trying out for anything, but that doesn't mean I don't get something out of people observing me and trying to make me better.

[Multiple Sports]

Welcome to the camp business....you have the option to say no. However, you seem to make a point that you aren't getting paid. One could ask...are you only in it for the $$$$$. If so, why does the supervisor want to use you ??? I have assigned
another sport for 18 years...guys in it for the $$$$ bother me.

If you don't like "the game", don't go but I guarantee you there are guys who will go, have a great attitude and "pass" you in the eyes of the supervisor...

[Raymond]

Originally Posted by Multiple Sports

Welcome to the camp business....you have the option to say no. However, you seem to make a point that you aren't getting paid. One could ask...are you only in it for the $$$$$. If so, why does the supervisor want to use you ??? I have assigned
another sport for 18 years...guys in it for the $$$$ bother me.

If you don't like "the game", don't go but I guarantee you there are guys who will go, have a great attitude and "pass" you in the eyes of the supervisor...

Why can camp directors and supervisors be in it for the $$$$, but an official gets judged negatively if he puts $$$$ first.

College camps are a money maker first, find officials second, for college supervisors. The HS camp in question seems to be money maker first, second, third, advancing officials forth.

[deecee]

Originally Posted by Multiple Sports

Welcome to the camp business....you have the option to say no. However, you seem to make a point that you aren't getting paid. One could ask...are you only in it for the $$$$$. If so, why does the supervisor want to use you ??? I have assigned
another sport for 18 years...guys in it for the $$$$ bother me.

If you don't like "the game", don't go but I guarantee you there are guys who will go, have a great attitude and "pass" you in the eyes of the supervisor...

What a bunch of hogwash. No one should work for free, even if you love something. In the end everyone should get something of value out of the exchange. Like BNR said, why can everyone else be in it for the money, but the official has to work for free?

[ILRef80]

Originally Posted by Multiple Sports

Welcome to the camp business....you have the option to say no. However, you seem to make a point that you aren't getting paid. One could ask...are you only in it for the $$$$$. If so, why does the supervisor want to use you ??? I have assigned
another sport for 18 years...guys in it for the $$$$ bother me.

If you don't like "the game", don't go but I guarantee you there are guys who will go, have a great attitude and "pass" you in the eyes of the supervisor...

As others have said, only supervisors are allowed to be in it "for the $$$", apparently.