You've read the rulebook, the case book, the officials' manual, and what seems like dozens of other reference materials in your attempt to be the best-prepared rookie going. Now your first game is upon you, and suddenly all the rules and mechanics knowledge take a back seat to the reality of being on the field. 

The first game

My spouse attended my first officiating effort, a freshman game with a 3-man crew. Afterwards she commented that I looked a "little uncomfortable" out there. I do remember a lot of aches and pains the next day, and I'm sure I did look more than a little "uncoordinated." I also remember being extremely nervous and anxious, as one of my journal entries reflected:

- need to relax

All rookies quickly learn:

Rookie Rule #6: You can study all you want, but there's nothing that can substitute for actually working the game.

There's an old expression that a football team makes the most improvement between its first and second games. The same can be said for rookie officials. The first game gives you some valuable perspective on:

Continued...