Next step in my progression as an official.

[FootballRef05]

I'm luck to be in an association that is very well organized and spends a lot of time on developing new officials. It takes 4-5 years here to get a Varsity game. When I started it seemed crazy but I will tell you I was well prepared. I had a mentor my first 4 years that was very helpful. We have classroom instruction weekly starting in the beninning if Aug until we take the Fed Exam then bi-weekly once the season starts. This is for ALL official no matter how many years you have been officiating.

Go watch experienced officials officiate and ask question.
Have a good official watch you when they can.
Take as many games as you can. (pee-wee is a great learning ground)
Use the ARS CD ROM in conjunction with reading the books
Get some of your buddies together and talk football
Read this forum, though you will see many different opinions I learn stuff from these guys all the time and it gets you thinking.

Just a few things that I do or have done.