Sports Officiating:
The AZ Officiating Association welcomes your interest in youth sports officiating. We have attempted to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about sports officiating. However, we encourage you to sit down with a Board Member or the Executive Director to gain more information into this demanding, exciting, and incredibly rewarding avocation. It just might be what you’ve been looking for to fulfill your life!

Q: What does it take to become a good official?
A: It takes a lot of things, but most certainly a very thorough knowledge of the rules of your sport, a love of athletics and participants, physical ability, self-confidence, the dedication and determination necessary to work hard, and above all, personal integrity. The athletes and coaches look upon each contest as being the most important thing happening in their lives at that moment, and the official must prepare and look upon each contest the same way and react accordingly. This avocation is not for everyone, but if you have the interest and the attributes described above, you may find this to be some of the most rewarding work you will ever be involved in.

Q: What does it take to become a “certified” official?
A: Again, it takes a lot of things, but most certainly a very thorough demonstration of your rule knowledge and interpretation, along with professional attitude, proper mechanics and game management capabilities.  You will receive training and mentorship as you are assigned to work in lower level competitions.  Your mentor will be a veteran, certified official in each particular sport that will afford you the opportunities to work more challenging level competitions if desired.  Successfully completing these higher levels of competitions and the recommendation of your mentor(s) will allow you to attain the level of a “certified” official that is available to work ANY level of competition.
Q: What are the benefits of officiating?
A: Individuals may look at this in different ways, but officials will generally tell you they…
1. want to give something back to the sport they enjoyed playing and/or spectating.
2. want to stay involved in the sport(s).
3. enjoy the challenge of being in a pressure-packed situation.
4. want/need the physical exercise.
5. enjoy working with the youth and/or young adults.
6. want/need some extra money.