Thinking About Becomming an Official...a few questions

[whaler]

When starting out you should be looking for JV and middle school opportunites. JV matches usually start at 6PM and run about an hour as the varsity is normally scheduled for 7PM start. MS matches in West Michigan start at 4PM which can be tough for a lot of guys to make due to work commitments, but might open a lot of opportunities if your class scedule allows. MS meets can vary from 45 minutes to a couple of hours.

Plan on being at the site early so you can prepare (be in uniform) and talk to the teams. AD's also appreciate it when you show up early so they have one less thing to worry about.

You can make $25 to $40 dollars for a MS match, JV's usually pay $2 per match and some schools, although not required, will pay a minimum to make it worth while for the offical.

Training is pretty much on the job, although prior to the season there are clinics during which you get mat time (scrimages) with a senoir offical by your side. Other than that, go to matches, observe the officals and if you work JV stay for the varsity. Join an association (West Michigan Wrestling Officlas Association operates in your area).

The pay for Saturday tourniments varies from around $125 to $200. You will earn your pay as you can plan on being in the gym all day.