I begin officiating high school football again starting next week. A scrimmage then the real games start on the last weekend of August. I am always ready to get started and this year is no exception.

I have only been an official for six years. This is my seventh. In that time, I have been lucky enough to be chosen to do one of the four Maryland state championship games at M@T Bank Stadium in Baltimore the last two years. 

Officiating is fun, but not for everyone. You have to know the rules, be in pretty good shape and no where to be on the field at all times. All of that can be done by just about anyone. No what makes officiating not for everyone is the abuse one must take.

I've seen and heard it all in my short time as an official, but so far nothing major. I've been yelled at by coaches, fans and at the adult flag and semi-pro level players. I've been on crews that had to be escorted off of the field, because of unruly fans. I've had people wait in the bleachers or outside to yell at me. I've seen fellow members go through similar incidents. 

Believe it or not, it doesn't bother me. I just look at it as time to put on the armor and go to work. If you have ever been to a high school football game then you know that people get out of their right mind sometimes. What I always tell myself is don't take it personal even if they make it that way and I'll be fine. I look at it this way. The game that we are officiating is the most important game to the people who are participating and cheering. Treat it as such whether it is a championship game or a game between the two worst teams in the league.

I think that I have a pretty good rapport with the coaches. I try to communicate with them. And when they get upset I let them vent. When they are getting close to crossing the line I just say, 'That's enough coach,' and walk away. They or someone on the sideline usually gets the message. I will let them say whatever they want as long as they don't cuss or make it personal (in this case I have no choice, because the rest of the team will take the coaches cue). But only the head coach. I will not allow an assistant to yell at me. And players are definetely to be seen and not heard.

So now it's that time again. Time to put on the armor. Time to turn the other cheek.

With that said, God I do love it!   

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