1st Year Backjudge
 

Hey Guys,

I am going to be a first year backjudge on a Varsity Crew. I have read the manuals and so on but I know there is nothing better then persoanal experience. So what would your tips be for me. What are some to do's and not to do's. Let me have it!!:)

You're going to have everyone tell you "don't get beat to the goal line". And that's true, but if not getting beat means you are running a footrace with the players and failing to do your number one job, officiate the game, then it doesn't really matter if you win the race or not. There are times you are going to get beat, but there is no excuse for ever failing to officiate.

Threads you should take a look at:

http://forum.officiating.com/showthr...ight=backjudge

http://forum.officiating.com/showthr...ight=backjudge

Just remember that you may not throw many flags but when you do it is usually a big one that everybody sees. Be sure of yourself, take a second to process what you saw and then let it fly.

Note: Perso-anal experience's usefulness is relative from person to person.

You need to know the kicking rule, inside and out. If there's going to be a problem, it's going to come in the kicking game. If it occurs during a punt or FGA, it's going to be YOUR play!

a BIG one?
 

I thought they were all the same size. :cool::D:p

Some are center wieght and some are ball.:D

Know your keys and don't be afraid to get out on the wings and work the ball in to your U.

Well, I thought I had a handle on being a back judge after working there last year, but after working a scrimmage last weekend under the watchful eye of experienced back judges, I felt like I knew nothing and have to start all over.

Make sure you have good watch to time 25 sec count.

I highly suggest the ReadyRef (http://www.ready-ref.com/football_timer.html).

Also:

Know that a fair catch is dead by rule and don't let anyone try to talk you into a quick whistle in that situation. You are not there to "protect the receiver." The worst thing a BJ can do is blow an IW on a muffed punt.

I have one and I haven't worked BJ in years (I use it mainly when working R in a 4-man game). Couldn't imagine timing a play clock or timeouts without one.

To continue with what everyone else is posting. I would add to never take a play off. At times you can get bored back there, but always focus on your keys and your zone. The time you relax is when you'll miss that "big" call.