AIA Softball season will be here before you know it.

The Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) and the Southern Arizona Softball Officials Association welcomes your interest in officiating. The following is an attempt to provide guidance and answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about officiating.  This website is your informational tool to use as a guideline for information into this exciting avocation as it is filled with helpful advice and direction from some of our top and most experienced officials in the association.

Q: Who can become an official?

A: Any individual who is 18 years old may register with the AIA on the website-aiaonline.org to officiate high school contest.  USA Softball, USSSA Softball and several other softball affiliated associations provide assistance in registration into these organization by way of attending meetings and making contact with those individuals that are registered AIA officials and supplement off season tournaments thru their respective organizations. High schools are served by area commissioners and committees who are important members of a team of people who deal with many aspects of officiating to provide guidance along the way.

Q: I have some experience or minimum experience in my sport, would this be a reason for not officiating?

A: It helps to have participated in the sport you wish to officiate; however, it is not necessary. Our association has years of experienced officials that provide knowledge, experience and most importantly the desire to help fellow officials in learning the ins and outs of the game to not only assist in your progression but to also provide mentoring you along your journey.

Q: What are some of the examples of things to expect along the way?

A: Rules knowledge & field mechanics, self-confidence and dedication, and determination to work hard and most important personal integrity. This avocation is not for everyone but if you have the attributes described above, you will find this to be the most rewarding experience, the comradery and dedication by others involved in the sport will fulfill your aspirations and expectations beyond your imagination.

Q: What are the benefits of officiating?

A: Officials play a very significant role in the success of athletic programs, if you are ready to accept the challenge and move into this realm, we welcome you. Physical exercise, the challenges along the way, the pleasure of working with athletes, coaches and other officials and making a little extra money along the way as you will find that contest fees paid to you range in various associations, mileage fees are additional, however, expect to spend some money on uniforms and equipment. These are certainly worthwhile benefits, but you will experience the thrill and challenges along the way that make these additional benefits as perks for doing something you will enjoy.

Q: Will officiating take up much of my time?

A: This obviously varies from person to person; however, it must be understood that to become a good official require a commitment and one must be prepared to devote time and energy. You may have seen officials at a contest and are certainly not aware of the meetings attended, the rules exams and mechanic and training sessions attended, the list goes on & on, however, as in most things, you improve according to your efforts.

Q: What do I do now?

A: Completing the registration form on the AIAOnline.org website is the 1st step. Registration opens up June 1st each year, the registration fees are listed on the form, new officials will need to set up a username and password to 1st begin the registration process, followed by obtaining you fingerprint clearance card thru DPS or Crimshield. DPS clearance cards are valid for 6 years. Crimshield cards are valid for 2 years.

We recommend making contact with our fingerprinting network sites:

Psp.azdps.gov/fingerprintclearance/formTriage

Aiaonline.org/files/15101/Arizona-livescan-fingerprinting-instructions-for-applicants.pdf

Arizonalivescan.com/fingerprint-locations/

Mtc01.crimshield.com/csapp/registerCrimshieldClient.do?referringAgentld=105#pagetop#pagetop

In conclusion: we congratulate you on your interest in officiating. We hope you find this information useful in accepting the challenges of officiating, appreciating and developing a better understanding of the official. Join our ranks or consider in the future the possibilities, IT”S YOUR CALL. WE welcome you!!