Nov. 8, 2006

This article was a "Parting Shot" in the August/September issue of Lacrosse magazine. If you would like to receive Lacrosse magazine, become a member of US Lacrosse by visiting our membership page.

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I missed my chance to play lacrosse.

I still remember the day I overlooked my opportunity to pick up the sport. A friend's father brought several lacrosse sticks to the park and was more than willing to teach us the game, but we, as a group of 11-year-olds, opted for kickball instead. Just like that lacrosse passed me by.

When I arrived at high school --- the next time I encountered the sport --- the skill level was way past anything I could make up. I became enthralled with the sport during my prep and college years, but my role was limited to that of spectator. Seven months ago I finally decided to get on the lacrosse field, nearly 25 years after my initial chance. I began the process of becoming a certified high school official in Northern California.

There was some trepidation about undertaking this quest. While I have watched the game for over 20 years and have a working knowledge, I wasn't sure if that would translate into becoming an adequate official. In addition, I didn't know if I would be treated as an East Coast interloper out here in NorCal.

While the first issue is yet to be determined, the second was not an issue at all, thanks to the tireless work and positive reinforcement from several dedicated officials. Efficiently run by Greg Simon and John Boone, who are both universally accepted as two of the best refs in the region, the certification process was fun, thorough and rewarding. Both were tremendous in teaching me the basics and the nuances of the game. When new lacrosse officials are trained in Northern California, the emphasis is not completely on classroom work and testing, but rather new officials are thrown into the fire with an experienced referee to accelerate the process.

It is a daunting, but effective, way of training and one that has paid off for me even though I haven't been able to ref as many games as I'd hoped (but certainly not due to lack of availability). As I move from California to Idaho in the coming weeks, I hope to continue my development, however slow it is.

There are a lot of people out there --- fans, parents, friends --- who were in the same boat as I: they've fallen in love with the sport of lacrosse, but too far along in their lives to actually play it. I'm here to tell you there is still an outlet for you to participate. If I can do it, there are not many who can't.

And, you'll be filling a great need in our sport. Lacrosse needs officials. Games simply cannot be played without them. US Lacrosse has recognized this and devoted many resources to recruiting and training officials. It's easier to become an official now than ever. Log on to our Web site, sign up to start taking classes in your region and become a lacrosse official. Start at the youth level and work your way up or try to step in at a higher level --- whatever you feel comfortable with.

Lacrosse officials are in demand all over the country and the trainers and assigners are ready to help you through the process. Don't let another opportunity slip away.