[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally posted by ChuckElias
If JR hadn't made the joke, I would've. It was, of course, the first thought that popped into my head as well.

But as to the substance of the post, I refrain from endearments. I say "sir", "gentlemen", and "ladies". When addressing one particular girl, I do not use any endearment at all, simply the number.

As far as "we don't ref girls or ladies or boys or men. We ref players", I'm sorry, but that guy has a stick up his butt. If you can't be polite and respectful by saying "gentlemen", then something is wrong. Seriously, what was that guy's beef? If you're not comfortable with it, then fine I guess. But "we don't ref girls or ladies or boys or men"? Um, yes we do. What's the point of refusing to recognize that?

Let's say you ask the kid to go get the ball after it has rolled away, and he replies like that. You say, "You're right. You're not my son. I apologize. Now go get the ball". Don't call him "son" anymore, but don't let him get out of what you asked him to do.

Chuck, I agree with you 100% regarding the use of "ladies" and "gentlemen." When I was playing basketball in high school I was impressed by an official who addressed us as "gentlemen." When I became an official I joined the Trumbull Co. Bkb. Off. Assn. and discovered that this official was the sectretary/treasurer of the association.

When game officials use good manners and treat the participants as ladies and gentlemen they are sending everybody a message concerning good manners and good sportsmanship.