2nd Year Official

[refbuz]

Originally Posted by Refsmitty

I was working a scrimmage last night as U. I am learning the position but have a decent feel for it. During a break, another U spoke to me and said as U, he very rarely blows his whistle. Shortly thereafter, a run up the middle, I see the play in front of me, the leather, and the down... am not blowing the whistle - the kid gets blasted with a late hit - your thoughts and recommendations?

I think that you should try to be more vocal around the pile. Don't be afraid to talk to the players and do some preventative officiating. It will save you a ton of headaches in the long run. The players are less likely do something stupid if they hear your voice.

Originally Posted by FTVMartin

As a U I keep my whistle in my mouth prior to the snap while looking for a FS. After the snap I drop it out of my mouth. The only time I blow the whistle to kill the play is if the ball carrier is tackled right in front of me. Even then I have to reach down and find it and then bring it to my mouth so I will not be to quick with it.

I used to do the same thing, and caught an earful working a my first college scrimmage. I hate wearing one but I use a finger whistle now.