Some officials end the season on a high note: perfect weather, respectful players and coaches, a close contest, maybe even a big playoff assignment. That’s a memorable way to finish.
Others don’t get that ending. Maybe you battled injuries, had crewmate conflicts, didn’t receive a playoff assignment, or endured a stretch of bad games. Maybe you felt unseen and disconnected, and you’re now tempted to walk away.
Football officiating can be a “trail of triumphs and disasters.”
Every official has those nights when everything flows — the mechanics, the communication, the confidence — and the game just feels easy. But we also have the other kind, the ones that feel like a grind from the opening kickoff to the final whistle, where nothing seems to come easy.
Victory and failure will be part of our officiating journey. One doesn’t define us any more than the other should.
Reset Strategies for the Off-Season
1. Reflect with Honesty (not regret).
Don’t lie to yourself. What really went well? What consistently failed? Did you put in effort to get better, or did you simply wait to think about football when you walked on the field each Friday? Did you attempt to reach out to find a mentor or others with whom to connect, or did you keep to yourself?
2. Reconnect Your “Why.”
Why did you start officiating? What part of it still matters? Reigniting that purpose fuels motivation.
3. Set Small, Buildable Habits.
Don’t plan a mountain climb for the off-season. Pick one or two mechanics, communication habits, or rules areas to improve. Consistency over intensity.
4. Connect With a Mentor or Trusted Veteran Official
Improvement rarely happens in isolation. We all need others who challenge and encourage us. If you’re feeling discouraged, reach out to a veteran official you trust and talk through your season. Honest conversations with experienced officials can help you turn frustration into growth.
Don’t Quit — Reset
Walking away gives the “last word” to discouragement. Reset gives you the chance to write a better comeback.
If you’re close to the edge, take a breath and remember that even the greatest officials have had games or seasons they’d rather forget. But many returned stronger.
The trail includes triumphs and disasters. Treat both as teachers, not verdicts.
Quiz
Quiz
Read the quiz stem and then choose the best answer.
A11 is under center and in position to receive a hand-to-hand snap. A51 snaps the ball in one continuous motion, the ball touches A11’s hands, and A51 pulls the ball into his body and advances.
- Legal play
- Snap infraction, live ball foul
- Snap infraction, dead-ball foul
Review Rule 2-40-2, 7-1-4, 7-3-2a