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How to Join the PFOA
Thank you for your interest in officiating football. The following has been developed to give you an idea of what officiating football entails. Hopefully, after reviewing the information, you will decide to participate in this satisfying and rewarding avocation.
-- Commissioner Bob Wellnitz, Portland Football Officials Association
BACKGROUND
First, all football officials in the state of Oregon are assigned through local official's associations which are certified and regulated by the state governing body which is known as the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA). Our local association is the Portland Football Official's Association (PFOA).
The PFOA is the largest association in the state and serves a total of 55 High School and 21 Middle School programs and numerous youth games. Games range as far east as Hood River and as far west as Tillamook.
The association has approximately 170 members and its activities are governed by an elected board. All games are assigned by the commissioner, Bob Wellnitz. All assignments are made at the sole direction of the commissioner.
If you are interested in becoming an official, please contact Commissioner Wellnitz by
or by phone at 503.665.9999
TRAINING PROGRAM
When you start you will enter the training program. This consist of a minimum of three years of classroom training for the study of rules and mechanics, observation of games, scrimmages, actual games and participation in regular meetings. The training meetings begin in early August and are held prior to the regular scheduled meetings.
The classes are concise and of great value. On occasion, varsity members attend the training sessions to brush up on various aspects of rules and game situations.
Our training program is exceptional and known throughout the nation for its quality. We have provided four NFL officials from our association, as well as numerous PAC 10, Big Sky and local college officials that gained their expertise through the PFOA training. An official is advanced based on their demonstrated ability, rule's knowledge, and dedication. We expect an official to complete the training program in three years, but in no case do we allow it to take more than four years.
FINANCES
Now the subject near and dear to us all... MONEY. Obviously we get paid for officiating games. And obviously there are outlays and expenses required to begin officiating. Let's begin with the outlays.
You will be required to purchase a packet supplied by the OSAA. This packet contains rules and mechanics booklets, sample tests, thought pieces and insurance coverage (secondary). The packet costs $69 and is available from the PFOA Treasurer.
Next you need a uniform. Most equipment firms offer starter sets at a reduced price for the whole package. The clothing supplies will run about $100. Your instructor can assist in the choice of equipment and firms from which to order your uniform. Many times' veterans will donate, or sell at reduced cost, used or "grown out of' equipment. Specialized shoes may many times be found at local thrift shops at greatly reduced prices. As you gain proficiency, expertise and officiating fees, you can methodically add to your officiating wardrobe.
Now about the fees. The normal custom is for the schools to provide funds to the association for distribution to the officials. We pay the officials at the meetings every third week for all games worked.
The fees for varsity contests are the highest. The payment amount decreases by league level and by age group. The fees range from a high of $58 to a low of $28 per game. Your total income from officiating is dependent upon your willingness to work games. The need is there. The games are available. The choice is yours. An average schedule should net you about $600. Some first and second year officials have earned as much as $1400.
TIME COMMITMENTS
In addition to the time actually spent working the games, there are other requirements:
- Meetings. The meetings for the regular members are held once per week beginning in late August. The training classes begin three weeks prior to the regular meeting. There are mandatory attendance requirements, failure to adhere to them will result in lost assignments and/or difficulty in advancement.
- Study. You are on your own on this. Rules and mechanics knowledge are imperative. You need it for the exam and it is a must on the field. Time for study is just a process of replacing a couple of TV shows or bedtime reading material.
- Observations-Discussions. Take the time to go to games and watch the officials. Do not look at their calls, but instead, watch their mechanics and how they handle the tough situations. Take the time to talk to veterans and listen to their experiences. Most veterans love to share their stories and will welcome your interest.
NEGATIVES AND POSITIVES OF OFFICIATING
Many beginners have the belief that if they learn the rules, use proper mechanics and be honest and objective they will be appreciated by all. Not so. Occasionally, you will have to take abuse from players, coaches and fans. The official soon learns that rewards come from within, because it is rare to hear "great job ref".
You do not have the right to lose your poise, no matter what the provocation. And you do not have the last word. You are expected to respond quickly and accurately to situations never before experienced. It has been said that the proof that officials do not have proper judgment is that they became officials in the first place.
Well, given that, why the hell would anyone want to do it?
THE BOTTOM LINE
Reasons' people officiate are the following:
- They have the self-satisfaction and pride that they are doing a job many cannot do. Few avocations or professions afford the opportunity for you to be in control of your destiny. Your work toward rules, mechanics and experience are directly translated into positive results.
- They develop strong friendships with fellow officials which are, on the whole a quality group of dedicated and responsible people. Backgrounds run the full range from corporation officers to the unemployed, but they share a special camaraderie of putting it on the line to do a good job.
- They achieve or maintain a level of fitness.
- They are active in a sport they enjoy, and have the "best seat in the house".
- Armed with the right attitude, it is just plain fun. We still get the thrill after twenty years of officiating.
- The money. After all, we all can use a few extra bucks.
SUMMATION
Obviously we believe the positive aspects of officiating far outweigh any negatives, but that is your decision.
Those who enjoy officiating and stick with it have many traits in common. If you decide to enter the profession of officiating you must be prepared to:
- Officiate every chance you can get
- Posses a positive attitude and approach of every game as if it is the "Super Bowl" *
- Study and know both the written rules and mechanics
- Get along and communicate with people
- Observe and learn from each other
- Have courage and confidence
The easiest way to fail is to:
- Lack dedication to officiating
- Lack integrity
- Be unreliable
That's the story We hope your decision is to join our officiating fraternity. Any questions about any aspect of officiating can be directed to your instructor, the commissioner, or any executive board member. We can guarantee you outstanding support and training. The rest is up to you.
GOOD LUCK TO ALL!
For more information on joining the PFOA please complete this form.
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