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First Class Officiating"DR. JOHN" RABER-DIRECTOR OF OFFICIALS FOR THE NHSCA An opinion of the official is formed the very moment they arrive on the scene. From the point of arrival the official's approval rate either goes up or it plummets. Dress is important. Shoes should be shined, shirt clean and tucked in, properly fitting pants, and arm bands that are clean and form fitting. Take a close look in the mirror. You can't hide from the man in the glass. If you feel and look good you probably have adequate pride to also take pride in your officiating skills. Dress, proper weight control, and proper physical and mental conditioning are all key elements but oral presentation is also critical. Are your calls weak or are they authoritative ? Prior to the meet when you talk to the wrestlers and coaches do you explain or do you threaten ? Do your communication skills indicate a love for what you are doing or are you perceived as an official who is there because of a desire to inflate your ego or are you there strictly for financial gain ? Poor or fair officials seldom ask for an analytical review of their work.Great officials ask other great officials to watch and critique them. If the match is filmed, ask if you can borrow and review the tape or better yet, have someone video you in action. The video is a great teaching partner because of its propensity for showing everything from positioning, vocal calls, visual calls, eye contact, movement time, reaction time, correct signals, anticipation, control of any and all situations, etc.. Officiating is a profession and it is up to you to to be a professional or a failure. If you give anything less than your best you disgrace not only yourself but every aspect of this great sport When you give your best you bring honor and the sport you officiate profits from your professionalism.
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