Understanding Roles.

The process of establishing clear role definitions, acceptance and accountability, can only evolve by the Instructor/Mentor working together in a democratic manner.

When the official and the Instructor share an understanding of the officials' role and ability, several benefits will become evident:

• Communication increases, anxiety decreases
• The official feels that his/her experience and knowledge are valued
• The official understands his/her strengths and weaknesses
• The official self-evaluates and takes responsibility for his/her performance
• The official is accountable in a more objective manner, reducing the chance of unfair criticism from the Instructor/Mentor
• Mutual respect increases

The official and the Instructor/Mentor both have the critical information they need to do their jobs under pressure and within the demands of the game.

By establishing his role within the group and taking pride in the fact that he is contributing in a tangible way, a rookie can achieve a sense of control in his officiating life. Not only is he able to learn, he is able to acquire the acceptance and respect of his co-officials.