Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016 Issue 17 10/21/2016

CORRECTION: USAV Volleyball Clinics

Note that the start time for the clinic on October 30th was incorrect in the last newsletter – the correct start time is 1:00PM

The USAV season is right around the corner. Want to earn some extra money officiating volleyball this spring? Want to get more reps to become a better referee? There are several clinics being conducted in the Austin area soon. If you are interested, there is more information available at lsvolleyball.org. Click on Officials Clinic and Info and then on Paid Ref Tournaments for all the information you need to get started officiating USAV. If you have not officiated USAV in the past, the best clinic to attend is scheduled for October 30th at the Austin Sports Center in Cedar Park from 1:00-4PM. The contact for that clinic is David Plaisance at drp2nd@hotmail.com.

If you are unavailable for that clinic, others that are available are listed under the Officials Clinics and Info Page.

October 23rd at Austin Sports Center South from 8-11:30AM followed by ratings until 1PM. Contact is Kevin Carlyle at kscarlyle@gmail.com

November 13th at Westlake Athletic and Community Center from 11AM-2:30PM. Contact is Craig Smith at csmithvb@sbcglobal.net

December 3rd at Austin Sports Center South from 9AM-12:30PM followed by ratings from 12:30-2PM. Contact is Ronnie Kaase at kaasedad@aol.com

December 3rd at the PAC in Leander from 4-7:30PM. Contact is Joe Lizama at lizamajm@hotmail.com

December 3rd at Comfort Suites in Buda from 1:30-4:30PM. Contact is Charlie Tamez at charlietamez@gmail.com

 

More Ranking Information

Some members have expressed concerns about their individual ranking that was recently communicated. This was not unanticipated. Communicating rankings is one of many areas the board is trying to address regarding transparency concerns raised by a few members. As was noted in the ranking release, there is no specific ranking required to work certain levels of matches. It is one of the components used when assigning matches. It should go without saying that we as a chapter, and the schools we serve, want the best officials working all our matches.

 

Rankings help the assigner ensure we meet that objective. Some officials are content to work only middle school or only sub varsity or only lines. Those matches are important to the participants and deserve the best possible official, so the board has consistently provided training opportunities to ensure all are aware of the current rules, techniques, and protocols. However, while an official may be current with all requirements, one’s ranking wouldn’t necessarily change unless they’re seen officiating higher level matches.

 

The board made the decision this past year to have two trainers rather than one so we would have more availability to evaluate officials and provide feedback. Many officials were evaluated this past season and the plans are to continue the evaluations to update and improve the accuracy of the rankings. If you feel that your ranking is significantly wrong, please contact your at-large rep so that a list can be generated of those who want their ranking reviewed.

 

Our last point is that these rankings are based solely on NFHS play. While you do not have to call USAV, NCAA, or NAIA, officiating these matches allows you to be seen which leads to opportunities to officiate higher levels of NFHS which can lead to a higher ranking. There is no question that the more one practices a craft after receiving feedback/instruction, the better one becomes. That said, the chapter has many highly ranked officials that only call NFHS.

 

From the President

I announced in the last meeting that I am trying to find out if Sunday, November 13th (12pm-3pm) would be better than Wednesday November 9th (6:30-8:30PM) for our end of the season meeting.  Below I have listed some pros and cons. 

Cons:

Meeting was already scheduled for a Wednesday date

Too late to change

I already have plans that Sunday.

Sunday is my day to relax

Pros:

No traffic

More time to discuss voting agenda

More time to discuss possible By-Law changes

Able to relax with members after the meeting.

 

Please complete the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PY6QBYF to answer this question (A link has also been posted to the FAQ page on the chapter website):

Would you like to keep the meeting on Wednesday or move to Sunday?

Yes, Keep it on Wednesday

No, move it to Sunday

 

Either way your Board is okay with the decision, that is made by the members.

This questionnaire will end at midnight, Saturday, October 22nd due to time constraints. 

 

 

ACV NEWSLETTER 16

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016
Issue 16
10/19/2016

 

Final Meeting of 2016

The final mandatory meeting for all members will be held at the Austin Police Union Hall. The meeting will be held on either Wednesday, November 9th from 6:30-8:30PM or Sunday, November 13th from 12-3PM. Please complete the survey at xyz.com to indicate your preference of meeting dates. Please note that the current By-Laws only allow for votes for the election and possible By-Laws changes from those in attendance at the meeting.

 

From the President

I announced in the last meeting that I am trying to find out if Sunday, November 13th (12pm-3pm) would be better than Wednesday November 9th (6:30-8:30PM) for our end of the season meeting.  Below I have listed some pros and cons. 

Cons:

Meeting was already scheduled for a Wednesday date

Too late to change

I already have plans that Sunday.

Sunday is my day to relax

Pros:

No traffic

More time to discuss voting agenda

More time to discuss possible By-Law changes

Able to relax with members after the meeting.

 

Please complete the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PY6QBYF to answer this question (A link has also been posted to the FAQ page on the chapter website):

Would you like to keep the meeting on Wednesday or move to Sunday?

Yes, Keep it on Wednesday

No, move it to Sunday

 

Either way your Board is okay with the decision, that is made by the members.

This questionnaire will end at midnight, Saturday, October 22nd due to time constraints. 

 

Final Meeting Meal

Please be on the lookout for an email announcing the event on Arbiter. Please accept or decline the meeting based on your planned attendance so that the Chapter can order the appropriate amount of food.

 

Elections

The nomination process for open board positions started at the meeting on October 12th. The vote will be conducted by secret ballot at the final meeting of season in November. The following positions will be open and nominations accepted: Vice-President, Assigning Secretary, Recording Secretary and At-Large Representative #2. Please contact Bob Block to submit a nomination - bobblock@austin.rr.com

 

Current Nominations

Vice-President – Christle Miersma, Linda Polley

Assigning Secretary – Harvey Madrigal, Ronnie Kaase, Craig Smith

Recording Secretary – N/A

At-Large Representative – N/A

 

Scrimmage Credits

An email will be sent prior to the final meeting with the amount of your scrimmage credit and how much you owe for 2017 dues. Once you receive it, you will need to also complete a 2017 Austin Chapter Volleyball application to submit with your dues. Please remember that you must submit your app and dues prior to December 1st to take advantage of this credit. Dues submitted late will not only forfeit the scrimmage credit, but also incur a $25 lat efee.

 

By-Laws Changes

There is a possibility that By-Laws Changes will be presented for approval at the last meeting. A page has been placed on the chapter website where these will be posted. You will also be notified via a newsletter or other Arbiter announcement when they are available for review.

 

USAV Volleyball Clinics

The USAV season is right around the corner. Want to earn some extra money officiating volleyball this spring? Want to get more reps to become a better referee? There are several clinics being conducted in the Austin area soon. If you are interested, there is more information available at lsvolleyball.org. Click on Officials Clinic and Info and then on Paid Ref Tournaments for all the information you need to get started officiating USAV. If you have not officiated USAV in the past, the best clinic to attend is scheduled for October 30th at the Austin Sports Center in Cedar Park from 1:30-4PM. The contact for that clinic is David Plaisance at drp2nd@hotmail.com.

If you are unavailable for that clinic, others that are available are listed under the Officials Clinics and Info Page.

October 23rd at Austin Sports Center South from 8-11:30AM followed by ratings until 1PM. Contact is Kevin Carlyle at kscarlyle@gmail.com

November 13th at Westlake Athletic and Community Center from 11AM-2:30PM. Contact is Craig Smith at csmithvb@sbcglobal.net

December 3rd at Austin Sports Center South from 9AM-12:30PM followed by ratings from 12:30-2PM. Contact is Ronnie Kaase at kaasedad@aol.com

December 3rd at the PAC in Leander from 4-7:30PM. Contact is Joe Lizama at lizamajm@hotmail.com

December 3rd at Comfort Suites in Buda from 1:30-4:30PM. Contact is Charlie Tamez at charlietamez@gmail.com

 

Haven’t Been Paid Properly for a Match?

Some members have expressed concerns about various schools or districts either being slow to pay or not paying mileage or other issues with pay. In an effort to determine if there are specific schools or districts that have regular issues, there is a form located on the Match Tools page – click on “What If?”.

This form also contains the steps to follow if it has been 30 days since your match and you have not been paid. Please complete the form if you have encountered problems with pay.

ACV Newsletter 15

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016
Issue 15
10/09/2016

 

Next Meeting

The next mandatory meeting for all members will be held at the Austin Police Union Hall on October 12th at 6:30PM. Pizza will be available beginning at 6PM until it is gone.

 

Playoff Availability Form

The Playoff Availability Form is now available on austinvolleyballofficials.com. Please complete and get it to Marilyn no later than the October 12th meeting. The UIL and TAPPS Playoff Pay Sheets have also been added. Note that some concerns had been expressed about the wording on the form and it has been updated.

 

Elections

The nomination process for open board positions will start at the meeting on October 12th. The vote will be conducted by secret ballot at the final meeting of season in November. The following positions will be open and nominations accepted: Vice-President, Assigning Secretary, Recording Secretary and At-Large Representative #2.

 

A Personal Note from the VP and Newsletter Editor

As noted above, elections will be held at the final meeting of the season. I believe sometimes many members believe that those of us on the board, particularly those who have been in office for an extended period of time, are “lifers” so to speak. This should never prevent you from running for a position or getting involved to help make this the best Chapter in the State. Even if you are pleased with the way the chapter is being run and are happy with the people in office, “new blood” is always welcome. This all leads me to let you know that I will personally not be running for Vice-President this year. It is time to take a break and enjoy more grandkid time. I encourage anyone interested in running for Vice-President who has questions about what the position entails to contact me.

 

A Personal Note from the Assigner

I just wanted to take a minute to thank all of those who have believed in me over the past 10 years. Thank you for your support in my ongoing efforts to take care of the Volleyball athletes of our area. I am also announcing that I will not be running for Assigner this year. It is also time for me to take a break. Please contact me if you are interested in learning more about what all is involved in Assigning for the Chapter. You might want to know that work begins as soon as January for the new season.

 

Middle School Matches – Patience Pills

We continue to receive reports of “grumpy” referees at middle school matches. Sometimes, the officials may actually be grumpy, but most times that is only a perception of the coaches based upon some of the calls made or interactions with the coaches. For instance, a referee arrives at a middle school and while checking the net notices that the metal connectors at the bottom of the net are missing the little Velcro covers. The referee immediately approaches the coach and says, “Coach, you know we can’t play the match without the metal being covered”. Immediately, the coach becomes defensive and perceives the referee as being grumpy. Remember, as opposed to high school matches where most of the players already know what to do and there are a number of experienced coaches that take care of details like this, that is not the case at most middle schools. Many middle school coaches may be the only coach for their grade level for both the A and B teams. They may be new. They may not even really know the rules and protocols. Many are still learning. In these cases, we need to be the facilitators and teachers of the game. A better approach: the referee goes to the coach and says, “Coach, I was checking the net and noticed the metal connectors are missing the little protective sleeves. You know we need those covered?”

When the coach responds that they didn’t know or they can’t find them the referee responds, “No problem, coach. Yes, we have to have them covered for the safety of the players. If you can’t find the sleeves, we can use a towel and some athletic tape to cover them.” Now, you the referee has become a friendly facilitator rather than a grumpy old fart.

I always take a “patience pill” before entering a middle school gym. Early in the season, when entering a gym for 7th grade matches, I might take several. Remember, particularly at the middle school level, all of the players should be there to learn and enjoy the game of volleyball – the referee should be doing everything they can to make that happen.

 

 

Haven’t Been Paid Properly for a Match?

Some members have expressed concerns about various schools or districts either being slow to pay or not paying mileage or other issues with pay. In an effort to determine if there are specific schools or districts that have regular issues, there is a form located on the Match Tools page – click on “What If?”.

 

This form also contains the steps to follow if it has been 30 days since your match and you have not been paid. Please complete the form if you have encountered problems with pay.

ACV Newsletter 14

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016
Issue 14
09/26/2016

 

From the President’s Desk:

Hello members

As you continue to officiate, I would like to applaud many of you on a job well done thus far. On many of your officiating assignments you go without a thank you, or a pat on the back, and at times are not even asked if you need anything prior to a match.  I would like you to know that many coaches have expressed their thanks and gratitude.  They have also told me how happy they are when they see you walking in.  Let’s keep the good vibe going and do not forget to have fun!  Great job ACV officials!  

 

I also want everyone to know that I would like to start a “ACV Board Member Shadow Program.”  This program is set for any ACV member that is interested in running for a board position. Over the years, many of you stated that you are interested in running for a position but are unaware of all the duties that may come with a board position.  Implementing this program will allow you to see some of the fun and some of the not so fun the board deals with. This will help you understand what the board does and will give you a different grip on some of the decisions that are made. While participation in this program will be highly encouraged, it will not be required to run for a position. Once all the details are set, I will let you know when this program will start.   

Until then, keep up the good work and I hope to see everyone at the meeting.

 

Next Meeting

The next mandatory meeting for all members will be held at the Austin Police Union Hall on October 12th at 6:30PM. Pizza will be available beginning at 6PM until it is gone.

 

Uniforms – Sub-Varsity

We continue to hear concerns about what is legal and what is not for uniforms.

Remember – at anything other than the Varsity level – the word of the day is leniency.

This means that as long as the libero jersey contrasts enough with the rest of the players for you to be able to tell the difference, we are playing. We prefer that they have a light vs dark combination. Dark blue or dark green vs black jerseys is probably not contrasting. Dark pink and red are also probably not contrasting. We are not concerned in any way with the solid-color jersey rule at the Sub-Varsity level.

 

Legal Uniforms

Please review Page 17 of the rule book and review what constitutes a legal uniform. We have been made aware of at least one school’s jerseys not all being exactly the same color. Note that the rule book says they are to be “like-colored”. The wording is the same for the shorts/uniform bottoms. Earlier this year, I worked a match where most of the players were in standard black spandex, but two were wearing similarly colored black soccer-style shorts over their spandex. Rule 4.2. Art.1.b.1 makes this legal. We have been made aware of some sub-varsity teams whose jerseys marginally meet the definition of “like-colored”. Remember – Sub-Varsity – Leniency is the word of the day.

 

Varsity – Solid Color Jersey Rule

Either the libero AND/OR the players must be in a jersey compliant with the solid-color rule. If a team is not able to meet this standard, they should not be allowed to play with a libero.

Varsity libero jerseys should be clearly contrasting. This has not changed with the solid-color jersey rule.

Please take a few minutes to review the NFHS Power Point on the 2016 Solid Color Jersey Rule and the TASO/UIL/TAPPS Statement on the Solid Color Jersey Rule so you are clear on what is compliant.

Both of these documents have been posted to the FAQ page on austinvolleyball.com.

While “clearly contrasting” is up to each individual referee, we need to be consistent in enforcement of the solid color jersey rule. If we don’t enforce it now, we are setting up teams for trouble when they reach the playoffs.

 

Proper Signal Sequence at End of Time Outs

Some members have asked questions concerning the proper sequence at the end of a time out when a substitution is also going to be administered. Once a time out is initiated, the time out should be completed prior to administering a substitution. For instance, during a time out, one team is ready to play before the other and wants to substitute. Any time there is a requested for substitution after a time out has been signaled, the substitute should be informed that the substitution will occur upon completion of the time out and they should be in the substitution zone at that time.

Signal sequence – with 15 seconds remaining in the time out, if a horn or buzzer is not sounded, a whistle should be blown by the R2 to alert the teams that they need to return to the court. At the end of 60 seconds (or if both teams are ready to play sooner), the time out is ended – if a horn or buzzer is not sounded, a double whistle should be sounded by the R2 and the number of time outs used by each team displayed. The R1 repeats the display of the number of time outs used. With the substitute in the substitution zone, the R2 whistles and signals for substitution. Once the substitution is recorded by the scorekeeper the R2 will signal the return of the court to the R1 on the receiving side.


 

Middle School Matches – Patience Pills

We have been receiving reports of “grumpy” referees at middle school matches. Sometimes, the officials may actually be grumpy, but most times that is only a perception of the coaches based upon some of the calls made or interactions with the coaches. For instance, a referee arrives at a middle school and while checking the net notices that the metal connectors at the bottom of the net are missing the little Velcro covers. The referee immediately approaches the coach and says, “Coach, you know we can’t play the match without the metal being covered”. Immediately, the coach becomes defensive and perceives the referee as being grumpy. Remember, as opposed to high school matches where most of the players already know what to do and there are a number of experienced coaches that take care of details like this, that is not the case at most middle schools. Many middle school coaches may be the only coach for their grade level for both the A and B teams. They may be new. They may not even really know the rules and protocols. Many are still learning. In these cases, we need to be the facilitators and teachers of the game. A better approach: the referee goes to the coach and says, “Coach, I was checking the net and noticed the metal connectors are missing the little protective sleeves. You know we need those covered?”

When the coach responds that they didn’t know or they can’t find them the referee responds, “No problem, coach. Yes, we have to have them covered for the safety of the players. If you can’t find the sleeves, we can use a towel and some athletic tape to cover them.” Now, you the referee has become a friendly facilitator rather than a grumpy old fart.

I always take a “patience pill” before entering a middle school gym. Early in the season, when entering a gym for 7th grade matches, I might take several. Remember, particularly at the middle school level, all of the players should be there to learn and enjoy the game of volleyball – the referee should be doing everything they can to make that happen.

 

School Mileage Key

Some updates have been posted recently to the School Mileage Key on the forms page on austinvolleyballofficials.com. Veritas and Texas School for the Deaf are both now listed as TAPPS schools and the TAPPS pay sheet should be used. Note the TAPPS mileage listed is for everyone regardless of how far you are personally from the school. This is based the distance from a center point in Austin to the school.

 

Playoff Availability Form

The Playoff Availability Form is now available on austinvolleyballofficials.com. Please complete and get to Marilyn no later than the October 12th meeting. The UIL and TAPPS Playoff Paysheets have also been added.

 

Years of Service

Every year, the chapter submits a list, based upon chapter records, to the TASO office for 5, 10, 15, 20, etc. years of service awards based upon the number of years completed during the current season. The following year, the awards are distributed at the State Meeting. Despite our best effort, it seems that every year someone is overlooked or receives the wrong award. These records are based on what is passed along at the chapter level. TASO does not currently track this. As Kevin has done in the past, he will be sending a separate email to all members to review the information on file. Please take the time to review it and respond if the information is incorrect. Please only respond to the email.


 

Elections

The nomination process for open board positions will start at the meeting on October 12th. The vote will be conducted by secret ballot at the final meeting of season in November. The following positions will be open and nominations accepted: Vice-President, Assigning Secretary, Recording Secretary and At-Large Representative #2.


 

TAPPS Mileage

The mileage distance for TAPPS schools is based on the school’s distance from a center point in Austin, not the distance from your home to the site. The school mileage key on the Forms section of the website shows the appropriate dollar amount to claim.

ACV Newsletter 13

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016
Issue 13
09/08/2016

 

 

Transparency of Assignments

Over the past year, there have been some questions and concerns about assigning by the chapter.

In an effort to be as transparent as possible, we have made last year’s schedule available for all active members. Additionally, current year’s assignments for all matches are now viewable by all members. In Arbiter – go to Schedule – Then Master Schedule. Click on View Slots and you will be able to see officials assigned for all matches.

Last year’s schedule is available in the forms section of Arbiter. The 2015 playoff schedule is also available separately in the forms section. If you have any concerns, please contact your At-Large Rep.

 

Training Topics from Last Night’s Meeting

Below is the script from the training that was covered at last night’s meeting.

Line-up Card Discussion

Please be aware that despite the discussion regarding the use or non-use of a line-up card during matches, there is no intent by the trainers or the chapter to discourage use of the line-up card. This was merely a discussion to explain potential reason why and how some officials use a line-up card on a very limited basis. If you regularly use a line-up card to better facilitate your matches as an R2, please continue to do what you have been doing.

R1/R2 Signals for Net and Center Line Violations

Please review the information below – even if you were at the meeting.

R1s should not be repeating the violation signal when R2s initiate fault calls.

Late Line-Up Submission

There was a discrepancy as to the penalty for a coach submitting their line-up late. The penalty is a loss of rally – point for the opponent. Remember – line-ups are to be submitted 2 minutes prior to the end of timed warmups prior to the start of the match and 1 minute prior to the end of the interval between sets.

As discussed at the meeting, it is the responsibility of the R2 to provide preventative officiating to avoid the need to penalize a team for submitting a late line-up. Prior to penalizing a team for a late line-up, you should ask yourself – “Have I done everything possible to avoid having to penalize this team?”

 

Lineup card vs No lineup card

o   The lineup card is a tool available to use as an R2. (Rule book Rule 5 – Section 5) Second Referee responsibilities, Art. 1 Note: “The second Referee has the sole responsibility to record both teams in starting floor position on his/her lineup card. The lineups are submitted to the scorer from each coach are in serve order.” Points of emphasis #4 (rule book page #52 discusses the “proper use of lineup card”.

o   1-3 year officials should be using lineup cards, you are working mostly middle school and sub varsity and often the scoring table is inexperienced. Some more experienced officials, officials who call other rule sets, etc. often do not use lineup cards during the match and are able to recognize positional faults, service order errors, libero replacement errors, etc. Keeping or not keeping is not right or wrong.

o   Think about your duties as R2 and the best way for you to perform those duties. If the flow of the match is not delayed then why not use it. The goal is to recognize faults, not catch them doing something wrong, but not allowing an advantage because someone is out of position. If you use the card and it helps you recognize faults then use it. If it is not helping you then you should ask for further explanation on how to keep your lineup card.

o   Using a lineup card does not make you a bad official. It is a tool available to use if you choose. When keeping a lineup card here are some things to keep in mind:

§  Remember, your card is written in service order. The serving team should have their 1st server in RB or position 1, the receiving team should have their 1st server in RF or position 2. Then follow around in order.

§  Only record as much or as little information on your lineup card as the competency of your scoring table dictates.

§  If recording subs on your lineup card, make sure you have finished writing and your card is put away BEFORE giving the court back to the R1.

§  Challenge yourself to learn to recognize positional/alignment faults by serve receive formations.

o   If not using a lineup card here’s some tips:

§  Memorize your setter and opposite, what position is the libero going in for, who is she serving for?

§  With more experience the different receive formations will become more recognizable to you.

§  If you’re unsure, ask the scorer who is the next server and then locate your opposites and you should see a formation/pattern. Remember the reason they are using these weird formations is so the setter does not pass the 1st ball.

§  Asking the scorer who your next 3 servers are will tell you who should be in your front row, RF, MF and LF. Again, locate your setter and the opposite and it becomes easier to see your pattern/formation.

R2 area of focus

o   During play the R1 and R2 should not be looking at the same things, if you are then one of you are unnecessary.

o   R2 main area of responsibility during play is focusing at the net area looking for net contact or center line violations, ball out on their side of the court.

o   R2 secondary responsibility is assisting the R1 with touches off the block or no touch (4 hits), libero setting in the front zone and/or other illegal back row attacks. A good R2 is able to help with discreet signals and only calls back row violations if 100% sure of a fault and after making eye contact with the R1 and the R1 does not communicate they saw otherwise (safe signal)

o   Avoid tunnel vision down the net but DO NOT Watch the ball during play.

o   Position yourself near the center line extended about 4 - 6 feet back from the court (can be back further if there’s room). Shoulders parallel with the court.

o   R2 should always transition to the defensive side of the ball (blocking side)

o   Your field of vision should be wide enough to be able to see the 1st contact and by the 2nd contact you should have transitioned into place and be stationary but still able to see the 2nd contact either through the net or around the pole. If your view is blocked by the pole. Do NOT lean around the pole to see. If you are leaning around the pole to see, you are too close to the court and need to move back.

o   By 3rd contact your vision/focus narrows to just the action at the net; seeing the block, any contact with the net and all the way down to the center line. So the eye sequence would be hands, net, feet. When the players transition off the net, you transition and widening your focus again.

Signal mechanics

R1 mechanics and R2 repeating

·        When the R2 initiates a fault call, the R1 does not repeat the fault signal (if it is a net violation, the number of the player at fault is repeated)

·        When the R1 initiates a fault call for a net violation, the R2 repeats the R1’s signals ( Award the point, signal the net violation, indicate the number of the player at fault)

R2 initiating the call (net violation, center line, out on their side)

·        It is not necessary for the R2 to actually touch the net

o   Who repeats what?

Consistency, professionalism, etc.

o   Pay attention to details: We don’t call a match from a plyo box, make sure that courts, nets, playing area adhere to Rule 3.

o   Use effective time management and enforce when the line ups are due, time outs, warm ups, etc.

o   Appearance. Uniform shirt should be white, unwrinkled and tucked in.

o   Don’t be a lone wolf. If you allow someone to wear something illegal or non-compliant, then the next ref looks like a jerk when they don’t allow it. This applies to non-contrasting libero jersey’s, jewelry, hair bands, etc. If you’re at a tournament and the tournament rules say that the games are best 2/3 games to 25 (cap at 30) per UIL, then don’t be a lone wolf and allow the 3rd deciding set played to 15 just because the coaches agree.

o   Remember you and your partner/crew are a team and have your own duties to perform. Make sure you are a team player and doing your part. You don’t want to be someone that other officials avoid working with. We have all worked with that official that made us feel we are calling the match by ourselves, or worse…wished we were. DON’T be THAT official. You should strive to be the official everyone wants to work with because they know you are knowledgeable, consistent and professional.

o   Ball handling: Understanding that everyone’s judgment is different and each game is unique we should still be striving, as a chapter, to be consistent in how a match is officiated. We don’t want to be overly officious but sometimes calls just need to be made. A coach wants to be able to teach his setter that if she contacts a ball a certain way then she will be called for the violation. If I call it but you don’t call it then we are inconsistent. If a player hits the ball with an open palm and you call that a “lift” but I don’t because it was not “prolonged contact” then we are inconsistent. The spinning of a ball does not always mean that a double contact has occurred. If you did not see 2 distinct contacts on the ball, then you should not call a double, even if the ball is spinning. But if it comes out with a weird change of direction spinning like a Frisbee, chances are that a double contact has occurred and you should call it. Obviously there are many variables i.e. grade level of the match, skill level of the teams playing, etc. This is something that you can discuss with your partner at your match so that you and your partner are consistent that night, and the chapter becomes more consistent as a whole. A good rule of thumb at all levels is to set your tolerance line just below the skill level of the better team. In other words, if Team A has an awesome setter who does not make any mistakes and Team B’s setter has hands like bricks. Then set your line just under the level of Team A. Yes it’s going to be a rough night for Team B’s setter but, they should not gain an advantage over Team A just because you don’t want to “beat up their setter”.

ACV Newsletter 12

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016
Issue 12
8/21/2016

 

 

Rules Questions of the Week (Answers at the bottom)

1)     A libero exchange occurs after the whistle and signal for serve. What’s your call?

2)     A substitute runs into the sub zone and the R2 whistles and signals substitution. The coach pulls the substitute back and withdraws the request for substitution. What should the R2 do?

3)     After #3 for Team A serves for points 13,14,15 and 16, then serves into the net giving Team B their 20th point. Prior to team B serving, it is discovered that #3 was the wrong server. What should the R2 do to correct this? What is the correction if it is discovered after Team B has served?

4)     A JV team has jerseys that are non-compliant with the solid-color rule, but the libero has a clearly contrasting (also non-compliant with the solid-color rule) jersey. What action should the referees take?

5)     A Varsity team has jerseys that are mostly white with 6 inch wide panels down the seams on the side that are gray. The libero has a completely solid-color red jersey. Is this considered compliant with the solid-color rule?

 

Arbiter Announcements

All members should check the Arbiter Announcements daily for any updates.

 

Word Version of Pay Sheet

A Word version of the UIL pay sheet has been posted to the website and is completely fillable – including match and mileage information. You will be prompted to download it when clicking on the button.

 

Assignments

All assignments should be worked as scheduled (including tournament schedules), unless changes have been approved the Assigner/Tournament Leader. This includes R1/R2 assignments.

 

Tournaments

Per UIL rules, tournaments that are played best 2 out of 3 are played to 25 (all three sets capped at 30).

 

Non-Public School Mileage

All members should review the School Mileage Key in the forms section of the website. This form shows the proper pay sheets and mileage to use. This is particularly important when calling matches at non-public schools.

 

Deciding Sets to 15

District 25 5A voted to play the 3rd deciding set to 15pts on JV & 9th grade matches.Schools are Austin, Ann Richards,Crockett, Eastside,Lanier, McCallum, Reagan, Travis

 

Rules Questions of the Week Answers

1)     A libero exchange that occurs after the whistle and signal for serve results in an out of alignment call and loss of rally point and serve to the opponent.

2)     A withdrawn substitution that has been whistled and signaled should result in a yellow card delay warning. (If there was a previous delay warning in the same set, the result would be a red card delay penalty) The team is not required to substitute.

3)     If a wrong server is discovered prior to the opponent’s serve, the result should be removal of all points scored by the incorrect server. No additional points should be awarded since the opponent has already received a point due to a loss of rally by the incorrect server. If the wrong server is discovered after the opponent has served, no removal of points should occur. The team with the incorrect server should be placed in the proper rotation.

4)     There is no action necessary with sub-Varsity teams that are not in compliance with the solid-color jersey rule. The libero must still have a clearly contrasting uniform from the rest of the team.

5)     Yes, only the team or the libero for Varsity teams must have a jersey that is compliant with the solid-color rule.

ACV Newsletter 11

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016
Issue 11
8/10/2016
 
 
As is always the case, the beginning of the season has some cobwebs to shake off. Below are some issues that have arisen in the first couple of days of the season. Please review all of these so that we are all on the same page as we go forward.
 
Sub Varsity Matches – NO Cap – 3rd Sets to 25
The UIL Rally Scoring Regulations document has been added to the website under member information. Please note that there is no cap for any match other than Varsity Tournament matches played 2 out of 3. The cap is 30 for Varsity Tournament matches.
Also, the only sets that should be played to 15 are the 5th set of Varsity matches. The only exception is sub-varsity and middle school match deciding sets where there has been a prior agreement communicated to both teams before the start of the match.
 
Solid-colored Jersey Requirement new for 2016
Beginning in 2016, either the players or the libero are required to be in a solid-colored jersey. Please review exceptions below.

  1. We do not stop any sub-varsity or middle school team from playing with uniforms simply because they do not comply with the solid-color jersey rule. You may discuss with the coach that they are not compliant for the first few weeks of the season, but once we get to the middle of September we should not be concerned with this. If the libero uniform is not clearly contrasting from the players on the team, that is a totally different situation. Most sub-varsity teams use previous year’s Varsity jerseys.
    This weekend and next as we work Varsity Tournaments and matches, let’s all keep in mind that we are the facilitators of the match and shouldn’t be unreasonably punitive. Perhaps team’s uniforms have not arrived for the new season, they didn’t receive what they ordered, or they ordered the wrong uniforms that are not compliant with the solid-colored jersey rule. As long as they are clearly contrasting, we should let them play. By all means, we should be informing the coaches that they have non-compliant jerseys if they do and ask If they have an alternative to be compliant.
    Rouse and Dripping Springs High Schools both are using the same jersey style. They have a pattern down the seam of the sleeve that is no wider than one inch. These jerseys have been determined to be compliant with the solid-color rule as there is no requirement that piping or trim along seams be solid in color.

 
Del Valle Replay Screen
Del Valle High School has a screen that shows advertisements and replays rallies. While the rules specifically preclude an electronic device from being used to review a decision by a referee, there is no rule against showing replays.
 
Players Standing During Play
NFHS rules say that all players must be seated during play. Please see recommended exceptions below:

  1. Tournaments – most tournament do not have enough chairs and there is no choice but to have players stand past the end of the bench/chairs. They should remain back from the court. It is much safer for them to be standing that sitting on the floor.
    Regular season matches – this is a judgment call. Many teams have a large number of players, coaches and team members keeping stats. If all the chairs are filled and a few players are standing at the end of the bench and are remaining back from the court, we should not be concerned about this. On the other hand, if they have 15 coaches and other personnel sitting on the bench “keeping stats” and all the substitutes are standing at the end of the bench, we can request that some of the “stat-keepers” move to the stands to track their stats so that the players can sit.

 
PAVO Line Judge Clinic Attendees
If you attended the PAVO line judge clinic this past Sunday and are interested in being evaluated Friday or Saturday, please contact Harvey Madrigal at harvey.ref@sbcglobal.net.
 
From the President’s Desk
As a reminder, I recently sent out information to everyone regarding the ACV Treasurer Position.  If you are interested, or know someone that would like to run please send your recommendations to Bob Block at bobblock@austin.rr.com.  This election will take place next month, at the September meeting.
Thank you and good luck with your season.  

ACV NEWSLETTER 10

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016

Issue 10

8/7/2016

TASO Rules Test and Online Clinic

Per the letter from TASO regarding the TASO Rules Test and Online Clinic, the requirements for completion of the test and/or District Clinic prior to working any matches is currently suspended and on hold until the issues with the test and clinic are resolved. Please stay tuned for further details.

TASO Test Score Visibility

Here are directions for checking your test score - While signed in on the TASO site, at the top of the page is desktop, send message, edit account, sports data tabs. Click on sports data and you can see all of your 2016 information including exam score. I have had reports of the scores not showing, so I will also be sending periodic emails with your test score in case you can’t view it. If possible, when you complete your test and see your score, you should get a screen shot in case there is an issue with your score being recorded. There is no need to send that to Kevin unless requested.

New Logo Required

Remember that when you start working regular matches on Monday, only the new Logo (Red, White and Blue) shirts are authorized. You are considered out of uniform is you are in the old black logo.

2016 Pay Sheets

2016 Pay Sheets with the updated mileage rate are available under forms and documents on the chapter website and in the forms section on Arbiter. These are “fillable” for everything except the specific match amounts and mileage.

School Mileage Key

The School Mileage Key has been posted under forms and documents. You can go here to determine if you need a UIL or TAPPs Pay Sheet. This form also shows each school listed under its appropriate school district – in case you need to contact the District about a pay issue.

Website is Mobile Friendly

Thanks to Ian Evins for all of his work on updating our new website and making it user friendly. Take a minute and check it out from your tablet or smartphone and see how well the mobile version works. If you are missing something from the old site, fill out the form on the Contact Us page and he will take a look at it.

ACV NEWSLETTER 9

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016

Issue 9

8/4/2016

TASO Rules Test

You should have received an email earlier today with regard to testing issues and issues with the online district clinic. Stay tuned for details as they become available.

TASO Test Score Visibility

As you can now see your own test score, I will not be emailing that info this weekend. Here are the directions - While signed in on the TASO site, at the top of the page is desktop, send message, edit account, sports data tabs. Click on sports data and you can see all of your 2016 information including exam score.

New Logo Required

Remember that when you start working regular matches on Monday, only the new Logo (Red, White and Blue) shirts are authorized. You are considered out of uniform is you are in the old black logo.

2016 Pay Sheets

2016 Pay Sheets with the updated mileage rate are available under forms and documents on the chapter website and in the forms section on Arbiter. These are “fillable” for everything except the specific match amounts and mileage.

School Mileage Key

The School Mileage Key has been posted under forms and documents. You can go here to determine if you need a UIL or TAPPs Pay Sheet. This form also shows each school listed under its appropriate school district – in case you need to contact the District about a pay issue.

Collegiate Line Judge Clinic

This Sunday, August 7th , there will be a line judge clinic conducted for those who are interested in calling lines for local colleges. Contact Harvey Madrigal at harvey.ref@sbcglobal.net if you are interested.

Website is Mobile Friendly

Thanks to Ian Evins for all of his work on updating our new website and making it user friendly. Take a minute and check it out from your tablet or smartphone and see how well the mobile version works. If you are missing something from the old site, fill out the form on the Contact Us page and he will take a look at it.

ACV NEWSLETTER 8

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016

Issue 8

7/30/2016

Mandatory Chapter Meeting

All members are expected at the first Mandatory Meeting of the 2016 Season. It will be held at the Austin Police Association Union Hall on August 3 rd from 6:30PM until 8:30PM. The Hall is located at 5817 Wilcab Rd #1, Austin, TX 78721.                                                                                         Sign-In Sheets                                                                                                                              When you arrive at the meeting on Wednesday, please note that you will sign in with your At-Large Rep. If you are not able to attend, please email your At-Large Rep prior to the meeting with why you are unable to attend.

TASO Rules Test - - - Not the Austin Off-Season Test

The TASO rules test that all members are required to complete prior to working a match is now available. Note that this is not the Austin Chapter Get Ready Test. You should have received an email notification from TASO Thursday evening or Friday morning. In case you missed it, here are instructions on how to access the test. Log in at taso.org (not via Arbiter). Near the center at the bottom of the page, you will see “2016 Volleyball Test” and a “Start Test” button. Click on the Start Test button and complete the test. If you don’t remember your password, use the Forgot Password button on the site. The Chapter does not have access to it. Remember, a minimum score of 90 is required to officiate Varsity Matches and Playoffs. By current TASO Policy, a passing score of 70 is required prior to officiating a match – Please take the test as soon as possible.

New Website

Please update your favorites to reflect our new website address – www.austinvolleyballofficials.com What’s missing from the site that you would like to see added? Send your requests to Kevin or click on the Web Manager link at the bottom of the home page of the site.

First Two Weekends of Tournaments

Some members have inquired as to why they were not assigned tournaments the first two weekends of the season. There are not as many tournaments and officials needed as in year’s past for the weekends of August 11-13 and August 18-20. 

Scrimmages – August 5 th and 6 th

Please remember that all members are expected to be available for a minimum of 3 hours of scrimmages. In addition to the obvious training and refreshing opportunities scrimmages offer us, they are also a significant source of chapter funds. If you have not yet self-assigned or been assigned to scrimmages, please self-assign yourself or contact Marilyn.

Availability

Your availability should already have been entered in Arbiter. Marilyn will also need a hard copy for her records. The form is available in Arbiter – Lists – Forms.

At-Large Reps

We have realigned the At-Large Reps for a more equal distribution of the membership. Remember that they are your first point of contact with any questions or concerns you may have.

A thru G – Rhiannon Stracener (r.stracener@utexas.edu)

H thru N – Katherine Bratton (kmb0424@yahoo.com)

O thru Z – Gilbert Mokry (yadyaf@yahoo.com)

ACV NEWSLETTER 7

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016

Issue 7

7/14/2016

Mandatory Chapter Meeting

All members are expected at the first Mandatory Meeting of the 2016 Season. It will be held at the Austin Police Associate Union Hall on August 3 rd from 6:30PM until 8:30PM. The Hall is located at 5817 Wilcab Rd #1, Austin, TX 78721.

Availability

Your availability should already have been entered in Arbiter. You will be able to make changes to your availability as needed, until assignments are published late in July. Marilyn will also need a hard copy for her records. The form is available in Arbiter – Lists – Forms.

Scrimmages – August 5 th and 6 th

Please remember that all members are expected to be available for a minimum of 3 hours of scrimmages. In addition to the obvious training and refreshing opportunities scrimmages offer us, they are also a significant source of chapter funds. If you are not going to be able to attend, you need to contact Harvey Madrigal, one of our trainers, now to make alternative arrangements to fulfill your annual training requirements. Contact Harvey at harvey.ref@sbcglobal.net. Self-Assign is available for many of the scrimmages. Remember that you must have entered your availability and checked the “Ready to be assigned” box before you will be eligible to self-assign any scrimmages or matches.

Evaluations

For those members who are interested in being evaluated and receiving feedback from our trainers, summer leagues are now under way. If you want feedback on how to improve, work higher level matches, or just want to get out and blow your whistle, contact Harvey at harvey.ref@sbcglobal.net or Christle at txvolleygal1@yahoo.com for available times and locations. The final opportunity will be July 28 th .

New Website

Please update your favorites to reflect our new website address -www.austinvolleyballofficials.com

At-Large Reps

We have realigned the At-Large Reps for a more equal distribution of the membership. Remember that they are your first point of contact with any questions or concerns you may have.

A thru G – Rhiannon Stracener (r.stracener@utexas.edu)

H thru N – Katherine Bratton (kmb0424@yahoo.com)

O thru Z – Gilbert Mokry (yadyaf@yahoo.com)

District Clinics and Officiate Texas Day

Remember that all members are required to attend a District Clinic. If you did not attend ours this past Saturday morning, you should review the available locations at taso.org. On Saturday, July 30th, Officiate Texas Day will be held in San Antonio in conjunction with the NASO Summit. Attendance at Officiate Texas Day will fulfill your annual requirement for attendance at a District Clinic. The cost is only $35 and will include National speakers and more. Registration is open on the TASO website.

Leander ISD Offers Direct Deposit!

What follows is information Marilyn received from the Leander ISD. Leander ISD is offering Direct Deposit for all Athletic Officials for anyone that is interested. It is OPTIONAL

Attached is a form that would need to be filled out and dropped/mailed to the Athletic office. Leander ISD Athletics, 202 W. South Street, Leander, TX 78641 Attn: Beverly Hans, Athletic Bookkeeper or Leander ISD Accounts Payable, 204 W. South Street, Leander, TX 78641 Attn: Darla Faulks. 

You would only need to fill out the Direct Deposit Authorization form once (unless changing bank accounts). 

Please do NOT leave Direct Deposit Authorization form with the gate-keeper at the game. 

We still need a current W-9 on file and your pay sheets would still go through the gate keeper at the game and to my office for processing. You just would not get a check mailed out.

Payment would be similar to what they do now on the paystub of the check. When a payment isgenerated, the invoice number information where Accounts Payable currently lists the game would appear and the PO number indicates the date. It would be itemized by game. Instead of it printing on a check stub, the email would look something like this:

JOHN DOE

On 07-14- 2016 an electronic payment will be deposited in

A PLUS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION in account *********1111.

This payment is for check number A12345 and covers the following:

PO/PA NBR INVOICE NBR AMOUNT

AO0209 CPHS/LHS 160.00

AO0312 VHS/VRHS 40.00

TOTAL 200.00

 

This payment was issued by LEANDER ISD. Please contact the Business Services Dept. at (512) 570-0050 should questions arise concerning this payment.

ACV Newsletter 6

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016

Issue 6

6/5/2016

UPDATE - Off-Season Test – For all members who officiated in 2015

TASO has still not processed all of our member’s background checks. You should receive an email from them when they have reactivated your membership and access to the TASO.org site. We still believe the pre-season test is a good learning tool. Please take it if you can log in. If you can’t log in and want to review it, a pdf version is available in Arbiter. Log in to Arbiter. It is located in the Forms under the Lists tab.

Availability

While it may seem early, you can enter your availability now for the upcoming season. You will be able to make changes to your availability as needed, until assignments are published late in July. Marilyn will also need a hard copy for her records. The form is available in Arbiter – Lists – Forms.

State Meeting

Registration is now available for the State Meeting in Garland on July 16th. Register at http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07ecj4w0fd162606b7&llr=rhmg7gjab

Scrimmages – August 5th and 6th

Please remember that all members are expected to be available for a minimum of 3 hours of scrimmages. In addition to the obvious training and refreshing opportunities scrimmages offer us, they are also a significant source of chapter funds. If you are not going to be able to attend, you need to contact Harvey Madrigal, one of our trainers, now to make alternative arrangements to fulfill your annual training requirements. Contact Harvey at harvey.ref@sbcglobal.net.

Summer League Training/Evaluations

For those members who are interested in being evaluated and receiving feedback from our trainers, summer leagues are now under way. If you want feedback on how to improve, work higher level matches, or just want to get out and blow your whistle, contact Harvey at harvey.ref@sbcglobal.net or Christle at txvolleygal1@yahoo.com for available times and locations.

Returning Member Training – Action Needed

All members who officiated in 2015 must attend either the training on June 18th or the training that follows the District Clinic on July 9th. Notifications were sent via Arbiter. If you have not already done so, please access your schedule in Arbiter and accept one of these training sessions. Note that you may have to change the drop down boxes for “Date”, “Group” and “Include” to “All” in order to see these events. You are welcome to attend both, but if you only plan to attend one, please accept the one you will attend and decline the other. Note: If you plan to attend the Returning Member training on July 9th, but are not attending the District Clinic – the 12:30 start time is tentative based on the actual end time of the District Clinic. It will start approximately 1 hour after the conclusion of the District Clinic to allow for lunch.

New Website

Please update your favorites to reflect our new website address – www.austinvolleyballofficials.com

At-Large Reps

We have realigned the At-Large Reps for a more equal distribution of the membership. Remember that they are your first point of contact with any questions or concerns you may have.

A thru G – Rhiannon Stracener (r.stracener@utexas.edu)

H thru N – Katherine Bratton (kmb0424@yahoo.com)

O thru Z – Gilbert Mokry (yadyaf@yahoo.com)

Officiate Texas Day

On Saturday, July 30th, Officiate Texas Day will be held in San Antonio in conjunction with the NASO Summit. Attendance at Officiate Texas Day will fulfill your annual requirement for attendance at the State Meeting or a District Clinic. The cost is only $35 and will include National speakers and more. Registration is now open on the TASO website. If you plan to attend Officiate Texas and our District Clinic, you should register and pay for Officiate Texas Day.

ACV Newsletter 5

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016

Issue 5

5/14/2016

Scrimmages – August 5 th and 6 th

Please remember that all members are expected to be available for a minimum of 3 hours of scrimmages. In addition to the obvious training and refreshing opportunities scrimmages offer us, they are also a significant source of chapter funds. If you are not going to be able to attend, you need to contact Harvey Madrigal, one of our trainers, now to make alternative arrangements to fulfill your annual training requirements. Contact Harvey at harvey.ref@sbcglobal.net .

Summer League Training/Evaluations

For those members who are interested in being evaluated and receiving feedback from our trainers, summer leagues are now under way. If you want feedback on how to improve, work higher level matches, or just want to get out and blow your whistle, contact Harvey at harvey.ref@sbcglobal.net or Christle at txvolleygal1@yahoo.com for available times and locations.

Returning Member Training – Action Needed

All members who officiated in 2015 must attend either the training on June 18 th or the training that follows the District Clinic on July 9 th . Notifications were sent via Arbiter. If you have not already done so, please access your schedule in Arbiter and accept one of these training sessions. Note that you may have to change the drop down boxes for “Date”, “Group” and “Include” to “All” in order to see these events. You are welcome to attend both, but if you only plan to attend one, please accept the one you will attend and decline the other. Note: If you plan to attend the Returning Member training on July 9th, but are not attending the District Clinic – the 12:30 start time is tentative based on the actual end time of the District Clinic. It will start approximately 1 hour after the conclusion of the District Clinic to allow for lunch.

Off-Season Test – For all members who officiated in 2015

The Austin Chapter Off-season test is now available. The deadline for completion has been extended to June 5 th . The test is located on the TASO site at taso.org. After you log in, you will see the tests under My TASO Links. Note that you have 3 chances to complete the test. The goal is to score a 100. It is open book based on last season’s rule book and case book. While the goal is a score of 100, due to the limited time left to complete the test, a score of 90 or above is acceptable. A score of 100 does not exempt you from any training this season.

New Website

Please update your favorites to reflect our new website address –www.austinvolleyballofficials.com Our new website administrator, Ian Evins, has been hard at work making the transition…with more changes and updates to come. If there is something you are missing from the old site, contact Kevin.

At-Large Reps

We have realigned the At-Large Reps for a more equal distribution of the membership. Remember that they are your first point of contact with any questions or concerns you may have.

A thru G – Rhiannon Stracener (r.stracener@utexas.edu)

H thru N – Katherine Bratton (kmb0424@yahoo.com)

O thru Z – Gilbert Mokry (yadyaf@yahoo.com)

Officiate Texas Day

On Saturday, July 30 th , Officiate Texas Day will be held in San Antonio in conjunction with the NASO Summit. Attendance at Officiate Texas Day will fulfill your annual requirement for attendance at the State Meeting or a District Clinic. The cost is only $35 and will include National speakers and more. Registration is now open on the TASO website. If you plan to attend Officiate Texas and our District Clinic, you should register and pay for Officiate Texas Day.

Availability

While it may seem early, you can enter your availability now for the upcoming season. You will be able to make changes to your availability as needed, until assignments are published late in July.

FYE 2016 Budget

A copy of the 2016 Chapter Budget is available in the Forms section of Arbiter for all active members to access. Please contact your at-large rep with any questions or concerns.

ACV Newsletter 4

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016
Issue 4
4/28/2016

 

Reward for 2015 Members

Due to a surplus in funds the Chapter has accumulated, your Board has decided to return some of these funds back to you. As 2016 marks the year that all members must have a shirt with the updated red, white and blue logo, we have arranged a deal with OfficialSports.net so that anyone who needs a new shirt this season will be able to get one for free. Also, knowing that some of you may prefer a different shirt or already purchased shirts last year, there are other items available for you.

In order to claim your free shirt, or other items you must submit a 2015 Renewal Members Award Order Form.

Log in to Arbiter. Click on Lists. Click on Forms.
Download one of the versions and complete the form.
It is preferred that you email it back to me at
kscarlyle@gmail.com.
If necessary, it can be snail mailed to me at the address on the form.
A reminder that you must be current on both your Austin Chapter 2016 Renewal and 2016 TASO Renewal no later than May 2nd in order to claim your $30 package.

Deadline to have your completed order form (and payment if you are ordering an Under Armour shirt) in my hands is May 6th. There are no exceptions to this date as the vendor must have our order in time to ensure in-stock on all of the items.

 

Returning Member Training

All members who officiated in 2015 must attend either the training on June 18th or the training that follows the District Clinic on July 9th. Soon, you will receive notifications via Arbiter. After you receive these, you will need to access your schedule in Arbiter and accept one of these training sessions. Note that you may have to change the drop down boxes for “Date”, “Group” and “Include” to “All” in order to see these events. You are welcome to attend both, but if you only plan to attend one, please accept the one you will attend and decline the other. Note: If you plan to attend the Returning Member training on July 9th, but are not attending the District Clinic – the 12:30 start time is tentative based on the actual end time of the District Clinic. It will start 1 hour after the conclusion of the District Clinic to allow for lunch.

 

Off-Season Test – For all members who officiated in 2015

The Austin Chapter Off-season test is now available – sort of. The test is live and available.

However, TASO has had some difficulty with a vendor in processing this year’s background checks. They have switched to a different one. As the checks are processed and members are cleared, access to the TASO site is restored. Your access has nothing to do with whether or not you will clear a background check, but is simply a function of when yours is processed.

The test is located on the TASO site at taso.org. If you are able to log in, you will see the test under My TASO Links. Note that you have 3 chances to complete the test. Due to parameters currently set by the system, you may only access and complete the test once each week. The goal is to score a 100. It is open book based on last season’s rule book and case book.

If you do not currently have access, please do not email me or TASO, just keep checking back periodically until you are able to log in.

 

At-Large Reps

We have realigned the At-Large Reps for a more equal distribution of the membership. Remember that they are your first point of contact with any questions or concerns you may have.

A thru G – Rhiannon Stracener (r.stracener@utexas.edu)

H thru N – Katherine Bratton (kmb0424@yahoo.com)

O thru Z – Gilbert Mokry (yadyaf@yahoo.com)

 

Officiate Texas Day

On Saturday, July 30th, Officiate Texas Day will be held in San Antonio in conjunction with the NASO Summit. Attendance at Officiate Texas Day will fulfill your annual requirement for attendance at the State Meeting or a District Clinic. The cost is only be $35 and will include National speakers and more. Registration is now open on the TASO website. More info as it becomes available.

ACV Newsletter 2

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016
Issue 2
02/20/2016
 
Calendar Updated
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Returning Member Training and District Clinic originally planned for July 30th has been changed to July 9th
The Calendar has been updated on the Chapter website.
Please review it carefully and make plans to attend the required meetings as listed.
Note: There are 5 available meetings noted in RED – all members who officiated in 2015 must attend 4 of the 5.
All members who officiated in 2015 must complete the Austin Chapter Volleyball Off-Season Test prior to May 28th. In order to access the test when it is made available, you will need to have renewed your TASO membership for 2016.
All members who officiated in 2015 must also attend one of the returning member training sessions on June 18thor July 9th
 
TASO Dues
Online TASO renewal is now available at TASO.org. There is no need to log in to the site. Click on Renewal at the top of the page. Be aware that even though your payment will be processed when you renew, your access to log in on the TASO site will not be available until your background check clears. This can take anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of weeks.
It is important to note that you must have completed your TASO renewal before you will be able to access the Austin Chapter Off-Season Test.
 
Off-Season Test – For all members who officiated in 2015
The Austin Chapter Off-season test will be available around the beginning of March and has to be completed online no later than May 28th. It will be based on the 2015-16 Rules and Case Books. No time like to present to review the rules to prepare for the test. This test is designed to be a learning tool for all members. It will only be 50 questions and as always – is open book.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The TASO Rules test that becomes available around the middle of July is separate from this test and must be completed as well.
 
Budget
At the chapter board meeting on Tuesday, the board decided to make the proposed budget for 2016 available for review and comment. It is planned to be finalized and approved by the board at our March 29th meeting. Active members are welcome at the meeting. Please contact your at-large rep if you want to attend or to share your concerns or suggestions if you are unable to attend.
A thru G – Rhiannon Stracener (r.stracener@utexas.edu)
H thru N – Katherine Bratton (kmb0424@yahoo.com)
O thru Z – Gilbert Mokry (yadyaf@yahoo.com)
The proposed budget will be sent via a separate email when it is available.
It will also be posted to the website.   
 
Recruiting
We need more referees! A reminder that now is the time to send Kevin names of those who might be interested in refereeing next year so they can participate in off-season training. Remember, you can earn a $25 referral bonus if you refer a member who works a minimum number of matches next season.
 
Officiate Texas Day
On Saturday, July 30th, Officiate Texas Day will be held in San Antonio in conjunction with the NASO Summit. Attendance at Officiate Texas Day will fulfill your annual requirement for attendance at the State Meeting or a District Clinic. The cost is planned to only be $35 and will include National speakers and more. More info as it becomes available.
 
 
Phishing Email
If you receive an email from a school district that references a “file too big” and “to click on the link”, you should not click on the link. Several members have reported these from various districts and they appear to be a phishing attempt. The chapter is not aware of any school districts that would be contacting you at this time of the year.

ACV Newsletter 1

Austin Chapter Volleyball Newsletter 2016
Issue 1
01/30/2016

 
Arbiter
Please note that the 2015 schedule information will be deleted from Arbiter on February 1st in order for Marilyn to start working on the 2016 season. If you need a copy of your schedule for your records, you should save one now. Instructions for saving your schedule are available on austinvbrefs.com under Match Scheduling. You can save your schedule as a pdf rather than printing if you prefer. 
Note that access to Arbiter will be removed from those who are not current on Chapter dues as of February 1st.
 
Calendar
The 2016 Chapter Calendar has been posted to the Chapter website.
Please review it carefully and make plans to attend the required meetings as listed on the calendar.
Note: There are 5 available meetings noted in RED – all members who officiated in 2015 must attend 4 of the 5.
Also, all members who officiated in 2015 must complete the Austin Chapter Volleyball Off-Season Test between March 1st and May 28th, in addition to attending a returning member training session on 6/18 or 7/30.
 
Chapter Application and Dues
If you have not done so already, please complete a chapter application and submit your dues ($30) to Teresa. The application is available on the Chapter website. Remember that a late fee of $25 will be required for those who have not paid and submitted their application by February 1st. 
 
TASO Dues
Online TASO registration should be available soon. All members will receive a notification from TASO when the process is available. Remember that you must complete this, in addition to your Austin Chapter Application and dues.
 
Recruiting
We need more referees! A reminder that now is the time to send Kevin names of those who might be interested in refereeing next year so they can participate in off-season training. Remember, you can earn a $25 referral bonus if you refer a member who works a minimum number of matches next season.
 
Off-Season Test – For all members who officiated in 2015
The Austin Chapter Off-season test will be available around the beginning of March and has to be completed online no later than May 28th. It will be based on the 2015-16 Rules and Case Books. No time like to present to review the rules to prepare for the test. This test is designed to be a learning tool for all members. It is planned to be limited to 50 questions.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The TASO Rules test that becomes available around the middle of July is separate from this test and must be completed as well.