Any Advice For A Rookie?

[Canfootball52]

Originally Posted by Mark Dexter

Rule #3 regarding whistles is actually the opposite of this - NEVER "mirror" another official's whistle or TD signal.

In our local association we tell ALL our officials, especially the new ones, unless you see the player down with the ball in his possession, do not blow the whistle. We also teach our officials to only signal a TD if it is to their side of the field, and they clearly see the TD.

To sum it up, see the ball, make the call. If you don't see the ball, don't make the call.

As for your original question regarding advice, don't let the crowd bother you. The best thing for you to do is pretend they are not there. The only call that matters is yours and that of the other officials. Not the few people in the crowd who apparently have a rule book at home.