Getting involved in regionals

[Jon Stratis]

My advise is the same for all key volunteer positions (and game announcer is definitely one of those!)

The very first thing to do is make your desire known to your area leadership - contact the VC, if you know who they are. If you don't, get ahold of a local Senior Mentor, Regional Director, or a volunteer you know from the regional - they should all be able to get you in touch with the VC! Talk with the people currently filling that role in your area. Ask for advise on preparing for it, what you can do now to get yourself ready.

The second thing to do is... level your expectations. Odds are, it won't happen your first year. Your VC can tell you what they want to see from you as you work towards the position - which other positions they'll want you in first (to get to know others involved with the event, demonstrate your abilities and reliability), which off-seasons you can practice at, or maybe starting with the position in another program like FTC, if they need people in that position.

Third, maintain good communication. Meet your commitments, ask them for feedback after each event. If you're going after a key volunteer position, recognize that jumping in to volunteer for other stuff can help - do they need help loading/unloading? What about setting up for off-season events? Is there something you can help with at kickoff? The more you help out, the better you'll get to know them, and the more they can help you get into the role that's right for you.