|
|
How to Join OWLUA
Thank you for your interest in officiating women's lacrosse. The following has been developed to give you an idea of what officiating lacrosse entails. Hopefully, after reviewing the information, you will decide to participate in this satisfying and rewarding avocation.
The OWLUA is the only women's lacrosse officials association in the state and serves OGLA High School and Middle School programs from Bend to Tillamook and Portland to Ashland. The association has approximately 80 members and its activities are governed by an elected board. All games are assigned by the OWLUA assignor and posted online.
If you are interested in becoming an official, please contact Development Coordinator Juliet Baker by
or by phone at 503.432.6701.
New Officials must Register with US Lacrosse.
TRAINING PROGRAM
The training program consists of both classroom and on-the-field training and includes the study of rules and mechanics; observation of games and scrimmages; and participation in regular meetings. The training meetings begin in early Spring 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.
First year officials must attend a training clinic. A fee of $35 ($25 for early registration - received three business days prior to the clinic) covers the cost of umpire kits (yellow flag, whistle, and cards; red, yellow, ltgreen) compensating the trainer for the clinic, and for the clinic site.
 US Lacrosse/OWLUA umpires are required to take a written rules exam annually to maintain their rating. The minimum score requirement for each rating is as follows:
- Youth and Apprentice: Open book exam; min. score: 80
- Local Umpire: Score 86 or above
- District Umpire: Score 90 or above
- National Umpire: score 92 or above
RATING
US Lacrosse and the Women's Division Official's Council do not approve or encourage the use of unrated umpires. As an affiliate of US Lacrosse, OWLUA requires all umpires to become US Lacrosse rated umpires.
Along with US Lacrosse, OWLUA is committed to ensuring that all umpires have proper training and the skills necessary to keep the game safe. The rating process acts as an integral part of the improvement and training of umpires. The levels of umpires (Youth, Apprentice, Local, District and National, International) and the requirements are described in detail in the US Lacrosse Women's Division Umpire Manual.
FINANCESOfficials 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 become a member of US Lacrosse. This covers a rules booklet, tests, and insurance coverage (secondary). The annual membership costs $50. You must be amember of US Lacrosse prior to taking part in any on the field training session or umpiring of any scrimmages or games.
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.
Teams provide funds to the association for distribution to the officials. Officials are paid twice per season. The fees for varsity contests are the highest. The payment amount decreases by league level and by age group. 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, you'll want to attend meetings, take time to study rules & mechanics, observe veteran officials and take the time to talk to veterans and listen to their experiences. Most veterans love to share their stories and will welcome your interest!
Officiating can be challenging, but it can also be very rewarding. Along with helping to ensure that our young athletes are receiving the level of officiating both they and the great game of lacrosse deserve, the camaraderie and fellowship that can be found as a member of the OWLUA can also help make the experience worthwhile.
Please Click Here to begin your career as a lacrosse official right now!
|
|