New official advice

[ref08]

I am just starting out officiating and wanted to get some advice. I won't be able to work game due to my current work schedule until this fall but wanted to get familiar with rules, etc. well before then.

I wanted to know if there was anything, other than watching officials working games, the rule book, case book and manual that would be good to have or be helpful in learning rules (i.e. different forms of the rule book, etc.). I know there are some different types of rule books, like the rule book illustrated, so wanted input and help on deciding what to purchase.

Thanks in advance for all your help.

[daggo66]

First find out which rules your state uses. Purchase the rule book and the case book. Many new officials also seem to like the illustrated book. It might also be helpful to get the book that shows the differences between NCAA and NFHS rules. Find a clinic and attend!

[Welpe]

I just finished my first year and I honestly didn't find the Simplified and Illustrated book that useful. A study guide I would highly recommend is the Redding Study Guide for NFHS Rules.

You can purchase it at www.honigs.com or www.doublesdistributors.com .

Also, check out www.usafootball.com . They have some good free material on there and I hear the material on the paid side is very good as well.

Otherwise, I just spent some time reading the forums and going over plays with fellow officials. I obviously have much to learn but I feel I had a pretty good start.

[Jim D]

Go to Grant's web site and look at some of the material he's gathered. He's got a lot of great information you have a tough time finding on your own.


http://home.comcast.net/~minnmo/football.htm

[grantsrc]

Originally Posted by daggo66

It might also be helpful to get the book that shows the differences between NCAA and NFHS rules.

This is probably not a good idea. This will only confuse you.

Find out what rules code your state uses. If you live in Texas or Massechusetts, they use NCAA. Otherwise, focus on NFHS. The rules by topic or Reddings guide are great resources.

Don't overwhelm yourself with reading the whole rule book. Focus on rule 2 first. Although probably the most boring part of the book, these definitions are vital to understanding the rest of the book.
Massachusetts, they use NCAA rules. Otherwise it is most likely that you should focus on NFHS rules first. There are various resources out there for either code. The Redding's Guides are a great resource. The Rules by Topic (NFHS) is also a great resource. Both these are available at

Find a local association or study group. Don't be afraid to ask questions, but also don't be "that guy". Every group has a "that guy", the one who talks all the time about his upcoming games or games he's worked, or asks totally irrelevant questions. Sometimes it's better to be a little quiet at first and once you feel a little more comfortable, then you can speak up more. Now I am not telling you to be totally mute, but be aware of your surroundings and the dynamics of the group. When at these meetings you will quickly get a good idea of who is a good resource and knows that they're talking about compared to those that just like to hear themselves speak.

Good luck! These boards are great resources.

[waltjp]

Originally Posted by grantsrc

focus on NFHS. The rules by topic or Reddings guide are great resources.

I agree. These are two of my favorites. Read through the NFHS Case Book too. Ask questions. This forum, along with others are a great resource. Have fun.

[ljudge]

If you're not already there get in shape now. Do NOT try to "play yourself into shape" as some athletes do.

One main thing all officials need at all levels is CONCENTRATION and that gets easily lost as you wear down physically in a game. If you have the stamina to work 4 quarters (and then some), then the ability to make (correct) crucial calls when the game is on the line is much easier because you won't easily lose your concentration due to fatigue.

Work hard right now starting today!

[Texas Aggie]

I wouldn't worry too much yet about the rules. LJ is right: get in shape. If you want to get an early start, find out who in the local association you need to get signed up with, dues paid, etc. Then, start looking for clinics. Even if its an on-field clinic, you can go watch. That's what I did in the spring before my first year. Then, I went to the association meetings/training, the state meetings, and the local clinics. Then scrimmages.

Start budgeting for expenses. We don't wear shorts except for scrimmages, so for games, we need the full uniform. Your league might be different. At least, you'll need a shirt ($30), a hat ($12), shoes ($75), flags, bags, and notepads (~$25), down indicators ($2-5) and a few whistles ($10). You'll likely need knickers ($40 for good ones, $30 otherwise), and socks ($7 a pair; need at least 2 pair). Most guys have multiples of each item except maybe shoes. Also, you'll probably want other items like sports briefs, under armour (or the like) tops and bottoms, etc.