Great questions!

1. Ball mechanics – Given the 40/25 second clock in NCAA games, flow is critical. Ball mechanics – getting the ball in and out of the field of play – is of prime importance. Spots and ball exchange may differ from crew to crew and from conference to conference. For example, the WVIAC like the ball spotted with the wing official’s foot outside the numbers. The deep official retrieves the ball from the ball boy and relays it to the umpire while the wing keeps the ball on his downfield foot. Inside the numbers – the U or the R typically handle the spot using the wing’s spot but we keep the ball in play…maintaining a consistent flow of the game.

Bottom line – check with your mentor or other conference officials and ask how they handle ball mechanics. You’ll look much more prepared for that BIG change relative to NFHS ball mechanics.

2. Equipment differences – Two small but important changes with regards to equipment. Bean bags and position placards. Most scrimmages won’t require position placards on your shirts however, if you know you are a U and are serious about working that spot in college then I suggest you get a shirt with a U sewn on. Aside from that position, it might not make sense to take it that far. You could do velcro placards but they cost about $12 each so it could get expensive. It looks good to have the right one on, but I don’t think any supervisor would ding a new official for working without one.

Bean bags – WVIAC requires blue as do most NCAA conferences. Buy two the next time you place an order for officiating supplies and get a new flag too. You want your equipment to shine and pop. Don’t show up with a dirty taped up white bean bag (smile).

Hope that helps, and thanks for taking the time to reply to the post!

Todd