Experienced Backjudges?

[movingthechains]

I noticed some real helpful "experienced" people on this forum in the past weeks. Just wondering if anyone out there has any advice for a new BJ, allthough I recently got assigned some varsity games at BJ prior to the season my preparation was 4 and 5 man HL and LJ, and in the past I worked only the flank positions in High school games. We use 5 man mechanics, I got some work at BJ in a scrimmage, and I understand the basics such as pre-snap routine, keys on specific formations, positioning depth, and goal line mechanics.

Im sure a lot of you will have suggestions so please let me know if there are any "tricks of the trade"

[Ref inSoCA]

Know Rule 6

Don't get beat

Know Rule 6

Don't get beat

[HLin NC]

I've worked a bit of BJ in my career. Its not enough to get over the feeling that my rear end is hanging out of my shorts when I work it. It is weird to get used to the fact that you've got all that stuff in front if you and all that grass behind you.

Conditioning wise, you've got to adjust from a lot of side-stepping to back peddling.

[TXMike]

Lots of good info in these 3 threads:

Advice for new Backjudge

First year as Back Judge...need some tips

Backjudge

[RMR]

You will earn your money on punts and with your dead ball officiating.

[Reffing Rev.]

On a dead ball when a player goes into hostile territory (the opponent's bench) Go In and get him out.

Never turn your back on the play. You will find on a pass right at you that you'll want to "get spun" away to officiate over your shoulder. Try to spin towards the play.

If you're going to be a BJ for a while and aren't going to have on-field play clocks invest in a Ready-Ref timer or something similar. They are a lot better than taking your eyes off of the play to check a wristwatch.

The Original Ready Ref Football Timer

Keep your distance

Never backpedal with a whistle in your mouth.

Never backpedal into a goal post.

Watch crossing routes for "pick" plays.

Watch WR on potential crack-back blocks.

Never go on the field with just one bean bag. (Its tough to bag both first touching and end of kick with only 1)

Goal Line!

When you drop back with a punt receiver maker sure he know what a legal fair-catch signal is.

And as has been said already, be able to quote rule 6 like its your wedding vows.