starting position(s)

[svm1010]

Originally Posted by cdoug

I'm unsure what you mean by "getting sucked into the line play." I think you mean just make sure that's not all I'm watching and be aware of my other duties too, but can you clarify, please?

When working the U the first couple of times (and the wing for that matter) I found myself wating to step forward towards the action to "get a better look" at what was going on and I would get so close I would be out of possition to make effective calls and ended up getting run into by the players more often than not. It wasn't till later that I learned a step back will improve your view of what is going on.

[GBFBUmp]

Our crew starts rookies at U for the reasons listed above by others.

Remember, let the wings determine when ball is dead. They have the best view, and can get an accurate spot. As umpire and somewhat as back judge I can go entire games without using my whistle, except on scrimmage kicks and free kicks.

Good advice to let RB run around you and not move, you will inevitably move directly into where he was planning on running.

[With_Two_Flakes]

Here in the UK, we generally favour starting rookies at U for all the reasons others have stated above. For me the major reason is that they are surrounded by the other experienced officials who can easily get to them to quietly offer help and advice.

[JugglingReferee]

In most places I know of here in Canada, you start as the HL. The thinking is to keep you away from the benches, as most new officials don't have any officiating knowledge. For some of those that do have officiating experience, do not know football well enough yet to handle the coaches properly. Our U job is different than the US umpire - I think the U here is responsible for more. That leaves the HL - which works out quite well. Managing the sticks isn't very difficult.

[bisonlj]

My first game was a JV game and I worked the U. My training was mostly rules and very little mechanics and I didn't know any position any better than another.

On the 4th play, the HL came in to let me know part of my job was to spot the ball. You learn through experience!

I worked several positions that first year in sub-varsity and youth games and started at HL the following year when I joined a varisty crew. I took that position only because it was the opening the crew needed to fill. I think you can argue for just about any position (besides R).

[LDUB]

Originally Posted by bisonlj

I think you can argue for just about any position (besides R).

I agree that for one's first game ever being the referee probably isn't the best idea. But after a few games it is just another position. Basically in a underclass HS game the only additional duties of the referee is to blow the RFP and give the signals after a foul. I've seen guys try to make the referee's job seem extra important, but to me it is no different than working any other spot on the field.

[Mregor]

My first game ever, after one scrimmage, was varsity U. The R was a basketball partner of mine. They told me to not throw a flag or blow a whistle. That and some rule/case book reading and multiple tips on the ride to the game, was my pre-game training. It really won't take long to get the hang of it. Here's a quick tip, when walking off penalty yards, take 1-yard steps.

Mregor