Every league everywhere is always short of referees. If you feel you aren't getting enough games, or if you just want to work more, the games are there for you! It is YOUR responsibility to contact the assignor in the areas you wish to work (and for the age/skill you want to work). It is all about communication. You as a referee must get to know who is assigning in each particular league and then make them aware of your availability, ability, and contact info.

The style and communication method of assignors varies greatly. Some assignors prefer telephone contact, others have so much communication to do that they rely almost entirely on e-mail. Some assignors will want to watch you work before assigning you games at certain levels. References from senior referees in your area, and from assignors you've worked for in the past are always very helpful.

Get to know the assignor and what their goals and needs are. Make them aware of what games you are experienced with. Do not ask or accept games that are above your skill level. When you want to move up to more skilled games, tell the assignor this and ask to be assigned with more senior officials for the first few games. And key to it all, do not back out of game assignments, or you could be dropped from their list. Be flexible and forthright about your availability.

If you have not found a mentor as a referee yet, do so and let them lead you into your next level or league.

Remember, you are a professional. You are being paid. You should conduct yourself in a professional manner. The way you act, the way you dress, the way you carry yourself and the way you treat your fellow referees and the coaches and players in your games all reflect on you as a professional, and will affect the types and levels of games you are given in the future. BE PROFESSIONAL!

Click Here for a list of Leagues/Tournaments and their Assignors