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Generally, there are two types of lacrosse assignors located throughout the country - those that require US Lacrosse membership in order to officiate youth games (because their youth leagues mandate the use of US Lacrosse officials), and those that do not require US Lacrosse training, testing, and membership (because their youth leagues are not affiliated with US Lacrosse).
If you work through this web page, and through the US Lacrosse Chapter structure, you will be connected with US Lacrosse assignors, and with the Men’s Division Officials Council (MDOC) certification process. The role of the lacrosse officiating assignor is a complicated one. Not only do they have to balance officiating assets (or human resources) among the scheduled games, but they have to consider the level of competition, experience, availability, crew personalities, distance from the game site, and history with those programs.
These concerns must also be balanced against input from coaches, the need to continually improve the body of officials, and balanced coverage for all games. All of this is maintained using limited resources. Most officials want to work the big games, but generally, you must first prove yourself to an assignor before getting these assignments. This is done by maximizing all of your officiating opportunities, by getting good reviews from your crew, by being patient, by maintaining peak physical fitness, and by being consistent. It’s also critical that you master the rules, the game mechanics, and the rules interpretations appropriate for the age group you are officiating.
Other important factors in an official's development include the ability to work under pressure, and the ability to effectively communicate with players, coaches, and crew members. If you make yourself a viable asset, you will be used as a viable asset.
Generally, the profile for advancement in lacrosse officiating follows the 90-90-9 Rule: 90 percent of lacrosse officials, can reach 90 percent proficiency, within nine years.
Depending upon where you live, and the level of level of lacrosse in your area, strong officials can rise to the top of the scholastic ranks and apply for membership in the College Officials Committee within nine years. Along with your mentor, your assignor will have the most consistent feedback on your performance. If you wish to improve your assignments after your initial season, then speak with your assignor about how to improve your performance. Many assignors now use web pages, such as assignedbyweb.com, or thearbiter.com to assign games over the Internet. Please contact your YOC Rep to determine when training will be offered in your geographic area, and who your assignor will be.
Once your Level One training has been completed (including passing the Level One examination and initiating or updating your membership with US Lacrosse) would be the appropriate time to contact your assignor and set up a password to the organization’s website.
• Main Officials Page | Main YOC Page
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