[nine01c]

Personally I think the bigger problem around here is the fact that they will let anyone do these games. I see the absolute worst, out of shape, older officials doing girl's games. Guys that could not handle a Freshman boy's game are officiating Sectionals in Girl's basketball. [/QUOTE]

The reason for this, in most cases (not all), is that the assignors are only concerned with putting bodies into games to fill slots (I mean bodies wearing black and white stripes). From the Superintendent to the Principal to the A.D. to the Janitor, no one REALLY cares about girls' sports. Although there have been many girls' programs offered for the past twenty years or so, they are still viewed as "activities" to give the girls something to do (by law). Therefore, referees officiating girls will not really be taken seriously, even the ones that ARE excellent.

This viewpoint is denied, as people want to appear politically correct, but a change of attitude can't be forced or legislated. This overall attitude and image that go with the girls games is a big part of why refs refuse them. Some feel they must ref the boys side to get good games and work up to their fullest potential. On the other hand, there are refs who choose to do girls only, perhaps because there is less pressure and stress involved. I do think there is an underlying, although subtle, negative attitude towards girls (only) refs. The text above is my OPINION only, and I am specifically referring to the Northeast. Other parts of the country may be very different.