Working my way through
 

I am looking at MS volleyball starting up next month. In reading through the rule book--and I am not quite finished--it appears that as the 2nd referee, that substitutions and positioning are the most complex of the rules that I will be dealing with as a new official. Are there certain rules that I should really focus on learning more quickly than others? Thanks.

I'm not sure that I would say that the substitution rule is that complicated but then, I've been officiating for around 20 years. I would say positioning (being able to recognize if a team is in proper alignment) is the most 'complex' rule. I've found from working with new officials that it takes the longest to understand. As I've said before, if you miss an illegal alignment almost no one will even know it. Not that it isn't important, it's just that most fans (and many coaches and players) don't recognize it, either.

The most important rule you should focus on (as R2) is the net and center line rules. The R1 will be following the ball and your partner NEEDS you to be able to keep your focus on the area between the attack lines. As you gain experience you will be able to expand your field of view and be of more assistance to the R1 in other areas but until you have a few games under your belt, stay in your primary (to borrow a basketball term).

Thanks. When I played, the sub could only enter at the serve position. Points could only be score on the serve. Sorta like pre-AP arrow days in basketball.

Observing MS DH on Monday, then on the court 3/10. Learning on the fly, I guess. Thanks for the tips.

Have you had a chance to work any scrimmages?

No. I will observe up close, two matches on Monday. Then put into practice
what have learned on Thursday. MS, so there shouldn't be as much over the net play.

If you can, ask a veteran official to come watch you and give you feedback after the match is over. And have a really thorough pre-match and post-match with your partner about things that went well as well as those things that need improvement. Good Luck!

First match done. I was an observer with the down official for the first match and about half of the second match. The scorers handled sub counts etc, so that was helpful. I brought in subs for the final game and a half of the second match. Missed a couple of net violations as I was trying to get used to positioning. I will be the R2 on Thursday with no training wheels.

On the plus side, my order of shirts got here in time.

Just like anything else, it will take some time to feel comfortable. How did Thursday's match go?

I did okay...I anticipated subs & time outs. I am glancing quickly over at the benches after points...esp after a change in service. I only had one net violation. My partner is someone with whom I worked in basketball, so that was a help. Someone new next Thursday.