FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I haven‘t joined the WSIFOA yet but I’m interested in officiating football. How do I join?
During July and August, you may come directly to one of our apprentice meetings, or contact us for more information at:
Whatcom-Skagit-Island Football Officials Association
WSIFOA Assignor: Pete Lockhart
petelockhart@gmail.com
Do I need previous experience as a football official?
Previous experience is good but is not a requirement. We provide a comprehensive training course for new officials that’s included in your registration fee.
What sort of time commitment would I have to make to officiate football?
In addition to the preseason apprentice meetings and regular membership meetings games are typically played as follows. Most week day afternoon contests typically kick-off between 3:30 -7:00pm. The following list is a typical breakdown of when each age group plays their games.
- Mondays: Junior Varsity/Freshman/Sophomore
- Tuesdays: 7th Graders
- Wednesdays: 8th Graders
- Thursdays: Junior Varsity/Freshman/Sophomore
- Friday: Varsity
- Saturday: Youth League
- Sundays: None
Of course you can work as much or as little as possible depending on your desire and availability.
What are the criteria for membership?
The WSIFOA bylaws spell out all the association rules. However, here are some basic requirements for membership.
- Passing a online rules test
- Stay up to date with online clinics
- Attendance at association meetings
What about the rules exam?
Each year WSIFOA officials are required by the Washington Officials Association (WOA) to pass a written National Federation of High Schools Football (NFHS) rules exam in order to work varsity games. All of the rule books are provided once you sign up and begin apprentice training. This exam is prepared for during meetings prior to the season beginning. A passing score of 70% is required.
How do I receive pre-season scrimmage assignments?
Prior to the beginning of the regular season there are typically pre-season scrimmages and jamborees that the assignor will assign as needed. This is a great opportunity to practice officiating skills before the real games begin.
How do I receive game assignments?
The WSIFOA Assignor assigns all games. During the season you will periodically receive emails letting you know that you have been assigned a game. Using our web based assigning system you will then need to login and accept or decline your assigned games. Prior to, and during, the season each official has the ability to determine which days they are unable to work. These dates are noted in the assigning system, and the assignor will not assign you to games on those dates. It is also important to note that you should always contact the assignor immediately if you are unable to make a scheduled assignment.
I’ve been assigned a game. How do I get directions to the school?
When you receive a game assignment you will be able to view the address and map to the school you will be officiating as well as the other officials you will be working with that day.
What equipment will I need to officiate?
The uniform required to officiate consists of the striped shirt, black pants with white stripe on the side, black socks, black shoes, black hat with white piping. Equipment needs will be a penalty flag, bean bag, down indicator, and whistle. The typical setup to get started will cost approximately between $150-$200. This cost can easily be recovered by working just a few games. We have some donated gear available if you cannot afford a complete uniform right away.
When should I arrive at an assigned game?
For all varsity games you should arrive 1½ hours prior to kick-off. This will allow ample time to dress and run through a pre-game meeting with your crew. For all sub-varsity games it is best to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to kick-off and be on field dressed and ready 15 minutes before the scheduled kickoff.
How do I get paid?
Officials are paid from the WOA for middle and high school games within 48 hours of a game being completed. We use an assigning software to schedule games and pay officials so you will be required to have internet access.
Is my officiating income taxable?
Each official receives an IRS form 1099 at the end of the year. As an independent contractor, each official is responsible for the reporting of the income, typically on a schedule C of their IRS tax return. A copy of each 1099 form will also be filed with the IRS as required by law.
Where do I get the NFHS rule books for each season?
Once you sign up and begin apprentice training you will receive the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) football rules book & case book.