The Beginners Guide for Football Officiating

Navigation: Home - Info for the New Official - Moving Forward - General Links – Return to the OAFO website

How do I advance my career in Football Officiating?

The first and last piece of advice is this:

IMAGE! IMAGE! IMAGE!

There is nothing new about the expression, “You seldom get a second chance to make a first impression”.

Examine everything about your personal presentation. There are things you can change and things that you cannot change. If you can change something and you think it needs changed, then fix it! Stay ahead of the game, do not wait for someone to tell you that you are overweight or your uniform is dirty. You do not need to show 4 yellow flags out of four pockets and have bad breath.

Put the stripes on with pride. Put the uniform on clean. Your uniform will get dirty in a game, but the next time you wear your uniform it better be clean. Knickers need to be a solid bright white. Faded is off white – and is NOT acceptable! Shine your shoes. Always shine your shoes!
Find a Mentor. Seek out an established football official that is in your local area. Do not go to this person for advice until you are very confident with your image. Does it help to “know somebody”? Only a fool would deny help and assistance from an established football official. Did you know that the NFL currently has 6 sons of former NFL Officials?
Hustle, but do not over hustle. Learn your position mechanics. Listen to your Mentor.
Work all Positions. Don’t be too quick to specialize a position. Make an effort to work all positions. Specialization usually occurs no sooner than your third year. Knowing all positions will enhance your growth opportunities.

If you agree to everything that has been said, then accept this:

Age is your greatest asset!

Start Young

You have to work hard to “move up the ladder”! Stop waiting for the phone to ring.

It has to be you making the call!

RETURN TO THE OAFO WEBSITE

Last updated: 18 Feb, 2004