Tips for a new Umpire

[Forksref]

Always position yourself so you can see the ball.
Drop your whistle after the snap.
Stay with your keys.
Learn the types of holding. This will allow you to better spot a hold.
Be a good dead ball official: Don't rush the pile unless there is a problem there. Stay back and have a better view of more players so you can catch any cheap stuff.
Know your rule enforcements as you and the R will be working together on this.

[jTheUmp]

Know the penalty enforcement procedures by heart.

You will almost never blow your whistle (I use mine MAYBE once a game); use your voice constantly, let the players know you're around. Short, simple phrases like "That's it" or "Play's over" or "easy up" will help you out tremendously.

Your white-hat is the captain of the crew, you're the executive officer. Your job is to make your white-hat look good. In pregame, ask him what you can do to help him out, and then do it.

When a runner comes straight at you, the worst thing you can do is move backwards (the runner will keep running right at you, because now you're lead-blocking for him). Learn to hold your position and make the runner move around you.

Invest in a couple of good knee braces.

[mbyron]

Originally Posted by jTheUmp

When a runner comes straight at you, the worst thing you can do is move backwards (the runner will keep running right at you, because now you're lead-blocking for him). Learn to hold your position and make the runner move around you.

My umpire says that he stays put when a running back is coming, because they know how to go around you.

When a QB is coming, he gets the hell out of the way!