If you're new to officiating, a great way to learn is to pick a good varsity game and watch the officiating crew in action. Back in Part I, I talked about the need to get to the game early, sitting away from the fans if possible, making sure you have plenty of paper and pencils for notes, and so on. Well, now you're at the game and ready to watch some great officials in action. Is there a right way to watch? Yeah, I think so, and here are a few of my favorite techniques.

How to watch

There are several good ways to observe the officials. I use any and all of them when I'm at a game and watching, not working.

• Key on a position

If you normally work one position, you might focus on just that position. For example, if you're a Head Linesman, then look for the official meeting with the chain crew before the game. Where and when does he meet them? How long does he spend with them? Watch how he checks the chain; not all chains you'll come across measure out to 10 yards. Does he demonstrate how/where to place the clip?

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