Many refs, especially younger officials, are starting out officiating football and want to make it to a power 5 college conference or the NFL one day to officiate. However, when they are starting out, they are most likely refereeing football or in high school and have many years and promotions until they get a chance to be on a big stage like that. Here are 8 things football officials can do to help climb the refereeing ranks.

1. Prepare well for everything.

If you want to get promoted, you need to show your fellow officers that you care about what you’re doing. If other officials see the work you’re doing, they’re more likely to speak highly of you to supervisors, opening new doors for you.

2. Perform well.

This should go without saying, but officials need to do their job well. All football officials will make mistakes, but try to make sure you’re getting the easy calls. Missing a judgment call is one thing, but losing a simple call is more difficult for supervisors to look beyond to see its positive aspects.

3. Meet others and network.

Networking isn’t just for the business world! If you’re a football official looking for promotion, the more people who know you and think well of you, the better. Many officers who have been officiating longer may have relationships with supervisors where they will recommend you for promotion.

4. Contact supervisors.

If you ever want to move up to a higher level of officiating, supervisors are the ones who will give you that opportunity. Be sure to introduce yourself and try to get to know yourself.

5. Go to the clinics.

Clinics are not only great places to learn new skills that will help you become a better referee, but they are also great places to network. Use these clinics as places to show off your skills and introduce yourself to supervisors.

6. Practice and improve.

Hear what other officials are telling you and what you are learning at the clinics. That’s how it gets better. After assimilating that new knowledge, practice it. Then it will be second nature to you in the field.

7. Take every opportunity you can.

Sometimes you may be offered to work on a game at a higher level, even on game day. Take advantage of that opportunity, accept it and act well. This will impress teammates and supervisors letting them know you are ready for that level of soccer.

8. Keep a record of what you do.

Keep a list of the games you officiate. Sometimes supervisors want to see what you have officiated and it is easier to give them a list. It also shows that you were prepared for this and that you want to move up.