AUS Commissioner's Report 2008/2009

1. I coordinated and conducted a fall rule-mechanic clinic with all panel members in attendance. Also, a second formal meeting was held in Halifax during the Christmas holidays to assess Block One games and to give direction for the second half.

2. Open communication and positive dialogue with coaches and AD's helped improve the working relationship with the panel and has impacted positively on our ongoing negotiations for the upcoming year.

3. Assignments were assigned using a two-block assigning period with officials not permitted to change games unless it was deemed absolutely necessary.I made all changes to assignments in such situations.

4. Assignments were made from strengths with no requests from the AUS to make changes.

5. A three-tier system was implemented. This allowed for more games and a clear direction for advancement for officials in tier three.

6. All officials were observed at least twice and were given formal post-game assessments.All game-sites were visited three times.

7. All AUS panel members will receive a detailed individual evaluation plus recommendations for the panel.

8. Observers were used throughout the season to help with the objectivity of evaluations. I also used game tapes and web-casts as part of my ongoing evaluation process.

9. The panel made fewer soft calls and were more consistent in their game calling. Officials were more efficient during dead ball situations.

10. Many officials were given the opportunity to work as crew chiefs.

11. We were financially responsible to the schools, with costs lower this year than last year.

12. A weekly newsletter was sent to all panel members. These newsletters contained information about previous week's play and expectations for upcoming games.

13. The quality of officiating improved at the AUS level because of the leadership and direction given by our senior crew chiefs and because panel members were prepared and willing to make changes to their game. Calling the balls and strikes correctly was emphasized.

14. I have been selected to help with the negotiations concerning the three-crew system for the upcoming season. Discussions will be taking place with the AUS, not the AD's.

15. Congratulations to Jon Hunt, Al King, Paul Hanson and Brian States for working the Mens' amd Womens' Championships, respectively. Their evaluations from other commissioners were excellent. Many other panel members received special post-season assignments and represented us very well.

Commissioner,

Roger Caulfield