Film Doesn't Lie
I have set a lofty goal this year. No, not work the state playoffs (although that is one of my long-term goals), not get an NCAA DII playoff game, or make it to the NFL.
I want to receive game film from 70% of my high school games. Assuming I get 10 regular season games, that equates to 7 DVD’s. Should be easy, huh?
As many of you know, getting game film can be a difficult task. I had a comment from a reader inquiring about formatting the DVDs so I thought I’d add my plan of attach to the blog and see if anyone else has any unique strategies or techniques they have found successful in getting game film for review.
- Here’s my plan of attack:
- Call the AD of the school the day prior to the game
- Stress the film is need for the officiating to IMPROVE
- The film is being used for training purposes
- Have a stamped, addressed envelope ready.
- Deliver it to the AD and/or Coach prior to the game (usually when I arrive at the locker room/dressing area)
- If not the coach, I take the time to have the R,U or LG mention it to the Head Coach during the pregame meeting or on the sideline. (just a reminder that we have requested the game film)
- I also take a $5 bill and put it in the envelope for the guy making the copies. I tell the AD its for the copy guy too.
So that’s my master plan. The $5 bill idea comes from Allen Baynes, NFL Side Judge and former CUSA deep official. He found the AD’s to be more appreciative and willing to follow-up on the DVD after the fact because we offered a small token of appreciation. I also like the idea of stressing the importance the video makes in improving the level of officiating. Coaches and AD’s alike understand that mentality.
So what are your ideas? Leave a comment, or email me at todd@profootballreferee.com
I was going to try this for the first time this year, I was thinking of including a blank DVD/RW in with the envelope, I guess in place of the $5 would be equivalent…not sure if this is easier or not…carrying a hard disc may not be too easy in knickers!
Comment by Tom — August 21, 2009 at 4:16 pm
Tom,
I’m 1 for 1 after week one! Just received the film today and spent an hour watching it tonight. Really eye opening seeing yourself on tape and having a chance to really examine each play.
I did the blank DVD and touched base with the coach/AD ahead of the game. I did tuck a five dollar bill in the envelope like a tip for the film guy. It worked!
Todd
Comment by Todd Skaggs — August 24, 2009 at 10:16 pm
I usually get at least 70% or more of my videos back each year. What I do in my coaches letter is ask if I should bring a DVD or VHS (most are all DVD nows) and tell him if they can make a copy of the game and leave it at the front desk by Monday. I will have someone pick it up. Then I send a reminder email the following Monday. This works for me because most of my games are in the metro area where I live and a person on my crew travels all over the valley and can pickup the DVD for me.
Comment by David — September 4, 2009 at 10:51 am