I think this sort of thing has long term effects on us retaining officials. This is the epitome of the good ole' boy system. How many 3rd years come close to working the Southland, much less are on a HS crew of stature good enough for a late round playoff game?
I don't care much. Where he works doesn't affect me, and I still bust my BUTT in-season and out. But I know several (at least 4) 10-12 year guys who left with this exact thing -- 2-3 year officials working good crews and college -- being one (but not the only) issue why they quit. Its funny how they all pretty much said the same thing -- politics and coaches in different orders. You may think, "that's their problem," but its all of our's problem when some of our best, most capable guys are leaving right in the prime of their career.
This doesn't speak of whether its a good idea to have someone with limited experience actually working this weekend. Were you ready for that in your 3rd year? I wasn't, and I did everything to prepare: clinics and state meeting before I ever took the field, 70 some odd games my first year and 50+ my second; playoff game my third year, and not in a small chapter. I played college basketball, and I'm a pretty good hoops ref. But the first time I stepped on the court in a stripped shirt and whistle, I was totally clueless and my playing career meant nothing. That stuff helps you five years in when you've mastered the basics and are working on the fine details of improving -- game management, dealing with coaches, etc. And I've worked with guys who haven't played a down of football or shot a basketball since jr. high that are damn good officials in their sport.
Smaller chapters have different issues, but larger chapters can put in a 5 year plan: something like, first year, subvarsity only; second year, 6 man, possibly small private schools; 3-5, small schools. After 5 years, crew eligible and they've worked 30+ varsity games already. Obviously, the details are debatable. But is it really a good idea for a crew chief to have a final say in whether an official is ready when we ALL know there is a better way?