Convention Agenda - Officials

IWCOA Officials Convention

October 18, 2025

Airport Holiday Inn, Des Moines, Iowa

8:00-9:00     Registration

9:00-9:50     Opening Remarks

10:00-10:40 Session 1 – MatBoss Demo: Tyler Hemmesch             

10:45-11:25 Session 2 – Keynote Speaker: James Droescher

11:30-1:00   Luncheon/Hall of Fame – (Location: Ballroom)

1:15-2:15     Session 3 – Build Attitude, Shape Perspective: Jack Zimmerman (Location:  Iowa A)

2:25-3:05     Session 4 – Keynote Speaker: James Droescher

3:15-4:00     Session 5 – Maximizing Performance for Officials: Scott Litterer                         

4:00-5:00     Social – (Location: Ballroom)

Session 1 - How to get the most out of your MatBoss subscription as an official

This year, officials will have the opportunity to get a free MatBoss account. MatBoss is a system many teams use to upload their wrestling videos for review. Make a questionable call? Review it in MatBoss. Are your mechanics crisp? Log in and check them out. Miss a locked hands? MatBoss will provide you the answer. This presentation will cover the features and functionality included in your MatBoss subscription to ensure you are realizing the full value of the platform. During the discussion, we will be reviewing quick tips and walking through the capabilities of the platform to ensure you are upping your officiating game! We will also be highlighting what is on the product roadmap and coming in the future for MatBoss.

Session 2 - Working up the ladder, preparing for the season, staying focused

In this session, James Droescher will share things he did to quickly climb the officiating ladder – from youth tournaments to the Nebraska state tournament, and now in the NCAA, James progressed quickly through the ranks. Next, he will discuss how to successfully prepare for the upcoming season. Then, he will give you tips on how to stay focused throughout an all-day tournament. James travels all over the US to officiate. This session will wrap up with his thoughts as what he sees as issues with officiating/officials in general.

Session #3: Build Attitude, Shape Perspective
Jack Zimmerman, a combat-wounded Veteran, author, and motivational speaker, may have lost both his legs and his mobility, but he came back with a strong message of resilience and determination. As an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and fisherman, Jack draws from his love of the outdoors to inspire others to live life with purpose and perspective. "When life flashes before your eyes, make sure it's worth watching." Jack's journey of overcoming adversity, paired with his deep connection to the natural world, fuels his desire to share his story and lessons with people from all walks of life. Whether through his motivational speaking or his writings, Jack shows that no obstacle is too great to overcome, and that the outdoors can be a powerful source of healing and strength.ng and strength 

Session #4: Stalling, role of the assistant referee, teamwork, mechanics, coach/official conference

In this session, James Droescher will share his philosophy on stalling and why it is important to call stalling. He will walk through the duties of the assistant referee and why AR can be vital to the success of a match. He will discuss good teamwork between the officiating crew and scorer’s table. Ever been told you need to work on your mechanics? Wonder what that means? James will discuss mechanics, the use of only approved signals, and the importance of perfecting them. Last, James will discuss how to handle a coach/official conference, body language/position, how much to say, when to penalize, and when to end.

Session #5: Maximizing Performance for Officials
Mental performance isn’t just for athletes and coaches—it’s essential for officials, too. Whether it's staying focused in high-stress moments, making quick, confident decisions, or maintaining motivation throughout the season, officials face unique mental challenges. In this session, you’ll gain practical tools to enhance focus, manage pressure, and elevate your performance. If you're committed to being your best when it matters most, this session will help you get there.