Getting Your First Game: Insights and Strategies for New Football Officials with Jerry Letofsky

Your First Downs - Introduction to officiating high school football

Ready to elevate your game as a new football official? We've got a treat for you. Joel Pogar and Kirk Russell sit down with Jerry Letofsky, a seasoned Colorado assigner, who offers his guidance and insights into embarking on an officiating journey. Jerry sheds light on the exciting world of assigning, reveals how to land your first games, and shares tips on leveraging technology to your advantage. As we navigate the process, we also delve into the challenge of juggling officiating with a full-time job, and the professional way to handle game cancellations.
As we journey further, we delve into the nitty-gritty of confirming assignments and honing your officiating skills. Uncover the secrets to establishing rapport with host organizations and the mechanics of assignment confirmation. Get an inside look at the demanding role of the referee and learn how to upskill your rule knowledge for more significant games. We also underscore the essence of being an excellent crewmate and discuss professional growth strategies for sports officials. From the art of effective communication and owning your calls to the importance of being coachable and the value of post-game work, we cover it all. As a cherry on top, we engage in a stimulating discussion on the philosophies surrounding camps and clinics. So tune in and equip yourself with the tools to thrive in the world of football officiating.