Thanks for your interest in finding out what it takes to become a certified high school volleyball official for BBOWS. Please check the BBOWS website at www.bbows.org
What is BBOWS?
The Baltimore Board of Officials
for Women's Sports is a service organization
providing the most desirable sports officiating services to girl's and women's
sports. Our Board recruits, trains, and provides continuing education for
people interested in becoming an official.
The members of the Baltimore Board strive to provide the leadership appropriate
in terms of ethical conduct and consistency with the highest level of
performance and achievement of the athletes involved.
In general what times are volleyball matches scheduled?
Matches are generally scheduled on all weekdays at starting times ranging from 3:15PM up to 6PM. Officials need to arrive at the game site no later than 30 minutes prior to start time of the game and dressed and on the court 15 minutes before game time. There are minimal Saturday matches that occur during the season. You will need to be able to get to game no later than 5:00.
What schools does BBOWS provide officials for the sport of volleyball?
As of the 2009 season the following schools are serviced:
· Baltimore County Public (MPSSAA)
· Baltimore City Public (MPSSAA)
· Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland (Private and Parochial Schools)
· Other various Independent Middle and High Schools
The volleyball season runs from September to November. There is Recreation ball in the spring and summer.
What is the registration fee to become a BBOWS volleyball official?
As of 2009, the total registration fee is $150.00 for a brand new official. This covers the cost of the training class, annual BBOWS sport specific season registration fee, MPSSAA sports insurance coverage, high school federation rules and casebook. There is also a requirement of your attendance at regular volleyball sport meetings as well as the annual BBOWS meeting that is held in the June.
What type of instructional training is provided for officiating volleyball?
There are instructors who provide classroom and courtside training. Training classes are held in August from 6:30 to 8:30 at a local high school. There are organized play dates that provide non-paid officiating opportunities prior to the start of the season. The rules for high school volleyball are governed by NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations). The NFHS test must be taken and completed with a passing grade. A training fee is associated and must be paid prior to the first class.
What are physical demands associated with the sport of volleyball?
They are not very physically demanding. You must be able to stand for 1 hour and a half at least. Your concentration level and ability to anticipate what will happen next is a must.
What are the uniform/equipment requirements and their associated costs?
The uniform consists of:
ü Black slacks with black belt
ü White volleyball shirt
ü All black shoes and socks
ü Black Fox 40/Mini Fox worn with a black lanyard
Optional Equipment for the first year consists of:
ü BBOWS Jacket
The associated cost for all of this uniform and equipment is generally less than $150 if you have shoes.
What are the match fees for officials?
In general for 2009, two officials working together on a Varsity game make individually between $62-$65 per match. Two officials working together on a Junior Varsity (JV) level game can make individually between $52-$55 per game.
How am I assigned games?
BBOWS uses an assigner for each sport. Officials do not get assigned by an individual school or school system. Your games are scheduled using a web-site (THEARBITER.NET) and internet e-mail. Factors influencing assignments are availability, attitude, experience, and dependability.
Contact information
Bill Kearney Chairperson 410-967-8945
Tim Trotta Chair-elect 443-286-4181
Kenny Spriggs Teacher 410- 215-6072
Kirk Jones Teacher 410-916-2664