Everyone has to decide why they officiate. Just because someone thinks they can only get experience by working these games does not make it true. I learn more from video we get from coaches on our Friday games or the class I help teach in the summer or the camp I help with in the summer where officials are working 7 on 7 and some contact days. It is like I tell officials in basketball, you can often learn more from watching games and seeing the game than actually working sometimes.

Peace

Agreed, I don't necessarily think I learn much from these games, I learn more from watching my game films from Friday, it is just something I enjoy (Call me crazy :) )

My comment wasn't directed to you personally, or your situation, rather just a general suggestion that when officials choose to make themself available for officiating youth football, it can be both a self rewarding exercise and also provides an opportunity (at times involving dealing with a little disorganization and annoyance) in helping those involved understand how the game is supposed to be managed.

I really did not take it personally. But I think we need to worry more why we get out their individually, than why others get out there. We are all not motivated by the same things and if people want to work youth ball I am fine with it. If I wasn't I would not still do it from time to time. But not everyone wants to do it for the reasons you mentioned. I have also worked enough years where I have more choices than others too.

Peace