GLASRA.org

GLASRA Referee Jonathan McCoy was selected from more than 200 officials at the Region II Tournament to referee at the 2011 U.S. Youth National Tournament in Phoenix, AZ (July 26-31). He is one of only two Michigan referees selected for the tournament. This year marks the second year in a row that GLASRA has had one of its officials selected for Nationals. In 2010, GLASRA referee Korey Carter was selected for the prestigious tournament.

Jonathan McCoy is an MSU senior currently studying Kinesiology which helps him as a referee. "It (kinesiology) helps me understand how to make my movements more efficient and effective allowing me to perform at a higher level." For officials at this level, fitness is a huge part of their officiating. During Regionals, McCoy ran 34 miles and averaged 6.8 miles per match officiated in sunny, 80 degree weather. Speaking about the level of fitness required, he said, "You're exhausted. It's even harder than running a marathon because you are stopping and starting all the time. In a marathon, you get to stay at one steady pace." He continued, "If you aren't in tip-top shape, you simply aren't going to be in position to make the important calls."

This is his 11th year as a referee and he has spent the past three years as a GLASRA member. During that time, he has upgraded to become a grade 6 referee.

When asked what officials should be doing if they want to officate at Nationals, McCoy recommends working hard to build a strong foundation. "You have to improve basic mechanics and learn how to be professional. Also, you have to find a person or group of people at a higher level to mentor you to help make you a better referee."

This past spring, GLASRA expanded its mentoring program to include the 720 game CASL season. GLASRA will be expanding its referee mentoring program to five additional leagues in the fall. Referees interested in being mentored through the program should contact GLASRA Mentoring Coordinator Joe Gazda at joe_g_mnzmnz@yahoo.com.

Other GLASRA officials who attended Region II Regionals included Korey Carter, Joe Gazda and Bob Burgee. Dean Kimmith served as an assessor and Francisco Villarruel served as tournament staff and assessor.

Lansing area certification and recertification courses have been posted at msysareferee.net.

Entry level course:
http://www.msysareferee.net/EntryLevel.htm#LANSING_AREA

Bridge course (recertification):
http://www.msysareferee.net/EntryBridge.htm#Lansing_Area