DII camp, where to start?

[NWA_UMP]

First, if this is in the wrong forum, please move.

I am planning on attending DII camp this spring. I am wondering what I need to focus on? This will be my first attempt to move up into the college ranks. NCAA is different with regards to rules and mechanics. Is it better to start reading and knowing rules or studying mechanics knowing that rules knowledge would came with study and time?

Any tips or advice for a first timer?

[Magician]

I would review key rule differences (various resources available with these). Don't get too hung up on learning the rules until you work more. I also found study groups reviewing quizzes as the best way to learn the rules.

For mechanics I would get with an experienced official who is either still working HS or not too far removed from it. Have them review some key differences for the position you'll likely work.

Then get as many snaps as possible because that is where you are really going to learn.

One bit of advice I heard early in my career is when starting you are a high school official who works some college. Once you are full time on a college crew you are a college official who also works high school.

[texref]

Understand the basic rules (and how they differ from Federation) and mechanics of 7 man.

Don't know about your height and weight but if you need to lose a few lb's or more, start on it now. Like anywhere in life, first impressions are important.

Good luck.

[Kirby]

Camps:

On the field...
How do you look in your uniform?
Is your positioning proper?
Are your movements, signals smooth and precise?
Are you looking in the proper place based the given dynamics of the play?

In the classroom...
Do you come off as a know-it-all or coachable?

If/when approached for follow-up (spring/fall scrimmages, other camps, etc), BE AVAILABLE.

Good luck!

[Rulesman]

Remember that you have 2 ears and 1 mouth for a reason.

[Diablo]

Remember that you have 2 ears and 1 mouth for a reason.

That's the best piece of advice I've heard in a long time.  And it's universally applicable.

[NWA_UMP]

Thanks for the input guys. I have printed the rules difference between NCAA and NFHS. I have a good friend that is an R in the GAC and worked GSC before that. So I will try and pick his brain for mechanics and 7 man coverage. Someone made mention about weight. I am 6'2", 270lbs and as a former O-lineman in college, I carry it pretty well. However, I am actively working on cutting some weight. I run 3 miles 3-4 times a week and will be increasing that as I get closer to camp.

Keep the advice coming. I am attending with the expectation that I will have to go at least twice to get in. This is attempt 1 so I want to get a feel for how this works and just what they are looking for. Ears open, mouth shut and nose to the grindstone.

[Rulesman]

Don't go to camp with the idea you are trying to get hired. Take the approach you are going to camp to get better. If you are ready, you will be hired.

[Fatman325]

Don't go to camp with the idea you are trying to get hired. Take the approach you are going to camp to get better. If you are ready, you will be hired.

I would modify what Rulesman said by one word. Instead of you WILL be hired lets work with you MAY be hired. Keep in mind that Supervisors may not have a need for your position at this time or they may need someone from a different geographic region that works the same position as you. The bottom line is to do the work, have patience, and enjoy the level that you are working, no matter what that level is. Best of Luck.

[texref]

"Someone made mention about weight. I am 6'2", 270lbs and as a former O-lineman in college, I carry it pretty well. However, I am actively working on cutting some weight. I run 3 miles 3-4 times a week and will be increasing that as I get closer to camp."

From personal experience, 6'2" and 270 is considered HUGE no matter how well you carry it (I'm also a former O-line guy). You may get into D-III or D-II but moving up will be tough. Anything over 230 will work against you. Good luck.

[InsideTheStripes]

"Someone made mention about weight. I am 6'2", 270lbs and as a former O-lineman in college, I carry it pretty well. However, I am actively working on cutting some weight. I run 3 miles 3-4 times a week and will be increasing that as I get closer to camp."

From personal experience, 6'2" and 270 is considered HUGE no matter how well you carry it (I'm also a former O-line guy). You may get into D-III or D-II but moving up will be tough. Anything over 230 will work against you. Good luck.

That's my experience as well. 

I'm 6'4" and 230 and was told point blank by the DI supervisor at our preseason clinic that "if you get any bigger, we won't be able to use you anywhere but U".  I'm at the bottom of the numbers returning to the sideline:



To answer the initial question, I would start with mechanics.

You have to know them inside and out, so that they are second nature. I can't spot rules knowledge from the bleachers, but I sure as hell can tell when a guys isn't where he should be, when his signals aren't crisp, and when he doesn't move with purpose. If you fail the eye test, all the rules knowledge in the world isn't going to get you on the field.

As others have stated, listen, learn, and stay quiet. Take all feedback (positive, negative, or otherwise) in the spirit that it is intended and thank the person giving it to you. Incorporate the feedback into your approach immediately, if you can.

That said, the most important piece of advice I can give you is to have fun and enjoy the camp. You'll be around a bunch of people that love the game as much as you do and are interested in improving and being the best.

What more could you ask for?

[first_year_guy]

6'4" 230 ain't bad but don't turn your back to the field...