Jeff,
What will your "FIRST-status" be next season?
Are you going to be a High Schooler, or on to College or what?
FIRST has recently (2002 and 2003 seasons) begun allowing FIRST participants to ref. For the most part, I believe they prefer (adult) mentors, especially from current Team-members. I don't actually know for certain.
FIRST will most likely be expanding to more regionals next year (30+?) and as such, will NEED more qualified refs. If you want a shot at it, you should DEFINITELY volunteer. If you have any ties to a regional nearby you can directly volunteer (that's what I did this year) or else you can go through the FIRST website (as was mentioned above).
When FIRST uses current team members as refs, they usually prefer it if they are not at a "local" regional. They try to keep team rivalries and friendships out of the equation as much as possible.
Again, this is all just what I believe the common practices are. I've only seen this process from the outside.
Something you should consider:
Being a ref is a HUGE responsiblity. As in sports, refs often take a lot of flack for their calls. Even if you make the RIGHT call, it doesn't mean it will be well liked, or well received. Jeff- you are well known in these forums, and well respected. You are also very visible. This would make you a "target". Be prepared.
I greatly enjoyed reffing. It was one of the most fun, and fulfilling experiences I've had in this competition. You get to see everything from a new perspective, and it's enlightening (to say the least)
.
If you think you can handle it. Go for it!
Let me know how/if I can help.
~John
Ref - NH 2003
Head Ref - Seattle 2003